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EP2791000B1 - Fairlead for guiding an anchoring chain and intended to be provided to anchoring equipment on the floor of a floating platform - Google Patents

Fairlead for guiding an anchoring chain and intended to be provided to anchoring equipment on the floor of a floating platform Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2791000B1
EP2791000B1 EP12813924.3A EP12813924A EP2791000B1 EP 2791000 B1 EP2791000 B1 EP 2791000B1 EP 12813924 A EP12813924 A EP 12813924A EP 2791000 B1 EP2791000 B1 EP 2791000B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
jaws
counterweight
fairlead
rotation
jaw
Prior art date
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Application number
EP12813924.3A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2791000A2 (en
Inventor
Philippe Busson
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NOV BLM SAS
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NOV BLM SAS
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Publication of EP2791000A2 publication Critical patent/EP2791000A2/en
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Classifications

    • 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
    • B63B21/10—Fairleads
    • 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
    • B63B21/18—Stoppers for anchor chains
    • 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
    • B63B21/50—Anchoring arrangements or methods for special vessels, e.g. for floating drilling platforms or dredgers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to floating platform anchoring installations, in particular for ground anchoring oil well platforms or production, storage and offloading vessels (also referred to as “Floating Production Storage and Offloading”). (Unit) "or” FPSO “in English).
  • the platforms for the offshore exploitation of oil wells consist of floating structures connected to the wellhead and anchored to the ground by means of anchor chains.
  • these platforms may have sides of several tens of meters, and a weight likely to reach several tens of thousands of tons (even several hundred thousand tons).
  • anchoring For anchoring, it is very generally used several groups of chains (also called anchor lines), each of these groups being arranged at one of the corners of the platform.
  • Each anchor group has several chains (three to eight for example) which are arranged parallel to each other.
  • Each anchor chain consists of a chain with metal links each of which has a length of a few tens of centimeters and is made from a wire having for example 9 to 20 cm in diameter.
  • each of these anchor chains comprises means for its attachment to the ground, through a solid sunken in the seabed.
  • Their upper end extends to a maneuvering station which is arranged on the side of the platform, above its waterline, for their operation by a tensioner winch.
  • fairleads are attached to the platform, usually below the waterline. They provide guidance for a change of direction of the associated anchor chain between, on the one hand, an upstream section extending vertically from the operating station and, on the other hand, a downstream section extending from 'An inclined way up to the sunken bottom in the seabed.
  • the stopper means in question comprise a jaw composed of two jaws hinged about axes of rotation parallel to each other.
  • the corresponding actuating means consist for example of a hydraulic cylinder, ensuring active operation from the active position to the inactive position, and vice versa.
  • anchor chains need to be tightened, generally every one to two years, to compensate for the relaxation associated in particular with the friction wear of the links.
  • the present invention aims to overcome these disadvantages by proposing a fairlead providing reliable maneuvering of the jaw at least to its active position.
  • the counterweight will tend to keep the jaws in the active position.
  • the actuator means actuates the associated jaws in the inactive position. This action also causes the displacement of the counterweight in the high position, ensuring the accumulation of a potential mechanical energy (in this case a potential energy of gravity), for the automatic return of the jaws in the active position.
  • the locking structure advantageously comprises an upstream end and a downstream end, respectively on the side and at a distance from the return structure; and the counterweight then advantageously extends at the level of said downstream end of the locking structure.
  • the counterweight is preferably carried by two support arms capable of pivoting about the same axis of rotation extending parallel to the axis of rotation of said jaws; and this counterweight in low and high positions is advantageously offset downstream with respect to said axis of rotation of its support arms.
  • the locking structure advantageously comprises a downstream outlet duct; and the counterweight is advantageously movable above this outlet duct and advantageously comprises a lower face whose shape is adapted to fit, in the low position, said outlet duct.
  • the counterweight and the actuator means are advantageously assembled with one or other of the two jaws; and said two jaws are advantageously mechanically coupled by transmission means, for their synchronization in rotation and in the opposite direction.
  • each jaw is extended by at least one arm crank; the counterweight and the actuator are connected with at least one of the crank arms of one or the other of said jaws; and at least two crank arms of the two jaws are connected together by a connecting rod.
  • the support arms of the counterweight then advantageously consist of two crank arms coupled on either side of one of the jaws, and the axis of rotation of said support arms coincides with the axis of rotation of said associated jaw.
  • the actuator means consists of a traction cable whose end is secured to the end of a crank arm of one of the jaws of the jaw.
  • said actuator means comprises a linear actuator carried by the locking structure, and a movable end of which cooperates with at least one crank arm of at least one of the jaws of the jaw.
  • This linear actuator then advantageously consists of a pneumatic jack, and the associated crank arm is provided with a bearing surface against which the movable end of said linear actuator comes to exert a force for maneuvering the jaw from its active position to at its inactive position.
  • the locking structure of the fairlead is secured with a degree of freedom in rotation on the return structure; the axis of rotation of said locking structure is advantageously parallel to the axes of rotation of the jaws.
  • stopper fairleads 1 are intended to be part of an installation 2 for the ground anchoring of a floating platform P (this platform P is shown here only partially).
  • This platform P floats on the body of water M , above the soil S of the seabed, by defining a waterline F.
  • the anchoring installation 2 consists of several anchoring groups G, for example each arranged at one of the corners of the platform P (on the figure 1 only one of these anchor groups G is shown).
  • each anchor group G comprises a plurality of anchor chains C (here seven anchor chains C ) which are juxtaposed and arranged parallel or substantially parallel to each other.
  • Each anchor chain C is formed of a plurality of metal links intertwined two by two.
  • chain links are made of steel; their length may be of the order of 50 to 120 cm and their width may be of the order of 30 to 80 cm. They are made from a wire whose diameter is for example between 9 and 20 cm.
  • the lower end downstream C1 anchor chains C is fixed by any appropriate means to a massive T placed on the ground S of the seabed, or preferably driven into the soil S (on the figure 1 only the lower end C1 of one of the chains C is shown).
  • the upstream upper end C2 of the various chains C extends to a maneuvering station 3 equipping the platform P , above the waterline F , and in this case at the upper part of the platform P.
  • the stopper means 4 which cooperate with each chain C consist of jaw type mechanisms comprising two jaws articulated around horizontal axes.
  • These jaws are operable in opposite directions with respect to each other (for example by means of an operating wheel) between - an active position, for locking in translation of the anchor chain C associated in one direction upstream to downstream, and - an inactive position, in which they are spaced from each other so as to allow the translation of the chain C.
  • the tensioner winch 5 consists for example of an electric winch, able to maneuver in both directions the anchor chain C associated therewith.
  • This tensioning winch 5 is mounted here on a rolling chassis guided by a rail structure, which is arranged along a raceway parallel to the stopper means 4.
  • each anchor chain C is associated with its own fixed tensioner winch.
  • Each anchor chain C also has an intermediate zone C3 extending between its lower end C1 and its upper end C2.
  • This intermediate zone C3 cooperates with one of the fairleads 1, fixed here on the platform P and below the level of its water line F.
  • This fairlead 1 makes it possible to deport below the waterline F the point from which the associated anchoring chain C deviates from the platform P ( figure 1 ).
  • a chute section 6 participates in guiding and maintaining the vertical section C4 of each anchor chain C.
  • the return structure 10 is carried by a support portion 12, for its attachment to the floating platform P.
  • This support portion 12 here consists of a set of metal plates which are secured to the floating platform P , for example by welding and / or by inserts (bolting, riveting, etc.).
  • This support portion 12 carries the return structure 10 so as to give it a degree of freedom in rotation about an axis 13 extending vertically, or at least approximately vertically.
  • the support portion 12 comprises a cylindrical plain bearing 14 (visible on the figure 5 ) on which is fitted and guided a cylindrical rear portion (forming a trunnion) of the return structure 10.
  • This return structure 10 is also provided with a portion 17 to guide the change of direction of the associated anchor chain C.
  • This guide portion 17 here consists of a U-shaped horizontal cross section member, which consists of a front metal wall 171 (away from the cylindrical rear portion 15) extended by two vertical side walls 172 at a distance and in look at each other.
  • the front metal wall 171 has a generally V-shaped section, arranged so that its plane of symmetry passes through the aforementioned vertical axis of rotation 13.
  • This front wall 171 has a central edge 173 which extends away from the vertical axis of rotation 13 of the return structure 10; it also comprises two lateral flaps 174, diverging rearwardly from the aforementioned edge 173 and each extended by one of the side walls 172.
  • the edge 173 has a curved shape, with its convexity oriented towards the rear portion 15.
  • this edge 173 is in the general shape of a circular arc, whose radius is a value between 50 and 100 cm. The center of this radius is opposite the rear part 15.
  • the divergent flaps 174 have in turn a general shape of truncated cone segment, whose small diameter is formed by the edge 173 above.
  • the side walls 172 extend as far as the rear portion 15, fixed on either side of the latter.
  • the guide portion 17 defines; with the rear part 15, a duct 178 ( figure 5 ) intended to be traversed by the anchor chain C.
  • the front metal wall 171 has a rear face (located opposite the rear part 15) which delimits the duct 178 and which is intended to cooperate with the anchor chain C to ensure its guidance and confer its bending. Similarly, the facing faces of the side walls 172 laterally delimit the duct 178 and contribute to the lateral locking of the anchor chain C.
  • This guide portion 17 is dimensioned according to the size of the meshes constituting the anchor chain C.
  • the distance separating the two side walls 172 opposite is advantageously identical to, or slightly greater than, the width of the links of the chain C.
  • the depth of the front wall 171 advantageously corresponds to half the width of the links of the chain C (or is slightly less than this value).
  • this front wall 171 is adapted to receive several dimensions of chain links, or even a useful cable during the installation of the anchor chain.
  • the locking structure 11 has in turn a support portion 20 carrying a jaw 21 (visible on the figure 5 ) associated with maneuvering means 22.
  • upstream ends 202 and downstream ends 203 still constitute, respectively, the upstream and downstream ends of the locking structure 11.
  • the transverse axis of rotation 23 thus also constitutes the axis of rotation of this locking structure 11.
  • This axis of rotation 23 is here horizontal and extends perpendicularly to the vertical axis of rotation 13.
  • this locking structure 11 carried by the return structure 10 is movable about the vertical axis of rotation 13 above.
  • the axes of rotation 213 of these two jaws 211 extend horizontally, parallel to one another and also parallel to the transverse axis of rotation 23 of this locking structure 11.
  • These operating means 22 also comprise arms 27; 28 and 29 each forming a kind of crank, ensuring cooperation between the jaws 211, the counterweight 25 and the actuator means 26.
  • These crank arms 27, 28 and 29 extend one or the other of the two jaws 211 above, for their operation.
  • the counterweight 25 has the general shape of a Ve or U open downwards, intended in a low position to overlap the tubular member 24 of the locking structure 11 ( Figures 3 to 5 -
  • the horizontal link downstream of the vertical link in support blocks the closure of the jaws and therefore the descent of the counterweight 25 just above and without contact with the tubular member 24).
  • This counterweight 25 has for example a mass of between 100 kg and 2000 kg.
  • This counterweight 25 is carried by two first arms cranks 27 connected with the lower jaw 211 of the jaw 21.
  • Each first crank arm 27 comprises, firstly, a downstream end 271 secured to a side end of the counterweight 25, and on the other hand, an upstream end 272 secured to the lower jaw 211 a.
  • the distance between these two ends 271 and 272, in other words still the radius of rotation of the counterweight 25, is advantageously between 1 and 2 m
  • These first crank arms 27 each have a generally curved shape.
  • the upstream end 272 of one of these first crank arms 27 continues with an upstream extension 273 (visible only on the figure 9 for the second embodiment).
  • the first crank arm 27 are thus coupled to either side of the lower jaw 211, ensuring the operation of the crank arms 27 and associated counterweight 25 along the axis of rotation 213 of said lower jaw 211 is associated.
  • the actuator means 26 here consists of a traction cable 261 whose downstream end is provided with a body 262 for its removable attachment with a second crank arm 28 also coupled to the lower jaw 211 a.
  • This fixing member 262 here consists of a plate provided with a light 263, in this case of generally triangular shape.
  • This traction cable 261 is associated with an auxiliary winch (not shown) located at the level of the tensioning means 5 of the operating station 3.
  • the second associated crank arm 28 comprises meanwhile, at its free end (at a distance from the lower jaw 211 a ), a plate 281 carried by a spacer rod (not visible).
  • This plate 281 also has a triangular shape, complementary to that of the light 263 of the fastener 262, to form together a keying type system.
  • This plate 281 is arranged so that its contour is rotated, preferably 180 °, relative to the light 263 of the associated fastener 262.
  • the fixing member 262 can then be separated by lateral translation parallel to itself so that the plate 281 passes through the slot 263 of the fixing member 262.
  • the traction cable 261 is further guided by a deflection member 265 fixed to the deflection structure 10 at the level of the transverse axis of rotation 23 of the locking structure 11.
  • the third crank arm 29 is in turn coupled with the upper jaw 211 b of the jaw 21.
  • a connecting rod 30 connects at least two of said three crank arms 27, 28 and 29, to form a transmission means ensuring synchronization in rotation of the jaws 211 and in the opposite direction.
  • This free end of the third crank arm 29 extends from a first (downstream) side with respect to a plane passing through the axes of rotation 213 of the jaws 211.
  • the first crank arms 27 also extend from this first side (downstream).
  • the second crank arm 28 and the upstream extension 273 of the first crank arms 27 extend from a second (upstream) side with respect to this plane passing through the axes of rotation 213 of the jaws 211.
  • the jaws 211 of the jaw 21 are maneuvered in an active position (visible on the figure 5 ).
  • the upstream ends 214 of these jaws 211 brought closer to one another, then abut on one of the links of this anchor chain C (namely a link extending here vertically, and in parallel to the plates 201); these jaws 211 are thus converging from their downstream ends 212 to their upstream ends 214.
  • the counterweight 25 is here directly overlying the downstream conduit 24, and thus extends just above the downstream section C5 of the anchor chain C.
  • This counterweight 25 thus exerts a moment of force on the lower jaw 211 has through its crank arm 27 in a first rotational direction (here clockwise in the figures); the rod 30 generates a moment of force on the upper jaw 211b through the third crank arm 29, in a second direction of rotation (anti-clockwise).
  • control means are controlled, for example by an operator, so that the traction cable 261 is maneuvered in translation in a downstream direction to upstream.
  • This action causes the reverse rotation of the upper jaw 211 b, by transmission of force by the link 30 (clockwise for Figures 3 to 8 ).
  • the jaws 211 thus reach the inactive position ( figure 8 ), in which their ends 214 are spaced so as to release the translation of the chain C within the fairlead 1.
  • the counterweight 25 is moved from its low position (near the downstream tubular section 24 - figure 3 to 5 ), up to a high position (at a distance from this same tubular section 24 - Figures 6 to 8 ).
  • the counterweight 25 operated in this high position allows the accumulation of a potential mechanical energy, in particular a potential energy of gravity.
  • the counterweight 25 in the low position ( Figures 3 to 5 ) and in the high position ( Figures 6 to 8 ) Is offset downstream with respect to its axis of rotation 213 (that is to say still offset downstream with respect to the axis of rotation of its arm 27 associated cranks). Its center of gravity thus remains always on the downstream side with respect to the vertical plane passing through this axis of rotation 213 a , thus favoring its pivoting in the clockwise direction according to the Figures 3 to 8 .
  • the counterweight 25 exerts a moment of force on the lower jaw 211 via crank arms 27, in clockwise direction, and the rod 30 transmits a moment of force on the upper jaw 211 b, in one direction anti-clockwise rotation.
  • This fairlead 1 is similar to that described above in relation to the Figures 3 to 8 in that it comprises a return structure 10 carrying a locking structure 11.
  • jaw 21 composed of hinged jaws 211 (not visible on the Figures 9 to 11 ) which are operable in rotation between the active position and the inactive position mentioned above.
  • This fairlead 1 further comprises maneuvering means 22 comprising: (i) the counterweight 25, for manipulating and holding the jaws 211 in the active position, and (ii) an actuator means 35, driven by control means (not shown) , for maneuvering the jaws 211 from the active position to the inactive position and for maneuvering the counterweight 25 from its low position to its high position.
  • maneuvering means 22 comprising: (i) the counterweight 25, for manipulating and holding the jaws 211 in the active position, and (ii) an actuator means 35, driven by control means (not shown) , for maneuvering the jaws 211 from the active position to the inactive position and for maneuvering the counterweight 25 from its low position to its high position.
  • the counterweight 25 is rotatably coupled with the lower jaw 211 by the first two arms 27 so as to impart a rotational movement about the axis of rotation 213 corresponding.
  • actuator means 35 here consists of a linear actuator carried by the locking structure 11, and in particular by the outer face of one of its side plates 201.
  • the linear actuator 35 here consists of a pneumatic cylinder associated with a pneumatic supply 36 and a pneumatic distributor (not shown) located at the operating station 3.
  • this linear actuator 35 is a single-acting pneumatic cylinder, cooperating with the crank arm 29 coupled in rotation with the upper jaw 211b of the jaw 21.
  • This linear actuator 35 is here fixed without degree of freedom and extends in a plane parallel or at least approximately parallel to the plane passing through the axes of rotation 213 of the jaws 211 of the jaw 21.
  • This linear actuator 35 comprises a cylinder 351 and a movable rod 352.
  • the rod 352 is deployable upwards; its free end 353 has a general shape of spherical cap (visible in particular on the figure 11 ).
  • the upstream section 296 of this crank arm 29 is provided with a transverse plate 297 comprising a lower surface 298 intended to serve as a support for the free end 353 of the movable rod 352 of the actuator 35, either directly or as illustrated on Figures 10 and 11 via an insert plate 299.
  • the plate 299 is advantageously made of a material with a low coefficient of friction and resistant to erosion (for example made of a composite material of resin type loaded with synthetic fibers).
  • this fairlead 1 As well as the operation of its jaws 211 between the active and inactive positions, are similar to those described above in relation to the Figures 3 to 8 .
  • the counterweight 25 is in the low position, keeping the jaws 211 in the active position because of the force exerted through the crank arms 27 and 29.
  • control means are controlled so as to cause the extraction of the rod 352 with respect to its cylinder 351 ( figures 9 and 11 ).
  • This operation then causes the movement of the end 353 of the rod 352 pressing on the bearing surface 298/299, which generates the same by pivoting the second crank arm 29 about its axis of rotation 213 b clockwise .
  • This movement is transmitted to the first crank arm 27 via the connecting rod 30, generating its pivoting in a reverse direction (counterclockwise on the figure 11 ).
  • the anchor chain C can then be manipulated in translation in the fairlead 1, in both directions.
  • the counterweight 25 then causes the retraction of the rod 352 in its cylinder 351 and again the pivoting - crank arms 27 and 29 in the opposite direction, and - their jaws 211 associated in the active position ( figure 10 ).
  • This embodiment with linear actuator 35 has the advantage of being simple and reliable, with the use of a single actuator single effect (so a single seal).
  • the counterweight 25 is also equipped with a catching plate 251 on which a hook can be fixed so as to be able to pull upwardly on the counterweight 25 and thus bring it from its position. low to its high position.
  • This plate 251 is particularly useful as a redundant security means, to allow the opening of the jaws and release the chain C within the fairlead 1 in case of failure of the pneumatic system for example.
  • the fairlead 1 according to the invention thus has the advantage of offering effective maintenance of the jaws of the jaw in the active position, while being reliable in the absence of mechanical means subject to wear for this maintenance.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Devices For Conveying Motion By Means Of Endless Flexible Members (AREA)
  • Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)
  • Bridges Or Land Bridges (AREA)
  • Refuge Islands, Traffic Blockers, Or Guard Fence (AREA)
  • Forms Removed On Construction Sites Or Auxiliary Members Thereof (AREA)
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  • Media Introduction/Drainage Providing Device (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne les installations d'ancrage de plateformes flottantes, en particulier pour l'ancrage au sol des plateformes d'exploitation de puits de pétrole ou des navires de production, de stockage et de déchargement (encore dénommés « Floating Production Storage and Offloading (Unit) » ou « FPSO » en anglais).The present invention relates to floating platform anchoring installations, in particular for ground anchoring oil well platforms or production, storage and offloading vessels (also referred to as "Floating Production Storage and Offloading"). (Unit) "or" FPSO "in English).

De manière classique, les plateformes pour l'exploitation en mer des puits de pétrole consistent en des structures flottantes connectées à la tête de puits et ancrés au sol au moyen de chaînes d'ancrage.Conventionally, the platforms for the offshore exploitation of oil wells consist of floating structures connected to the wellhead and anchored to the ground by means of anchor chains.

De section horizontale généralement carrée, ces plateformes peuvent présenter des côtés de plusieurs dizaines de mètres, et un poids susceptible d'atteindre plusieurs dizaines de milliers de tonnes (voire plusieurs centaines de milliers de tonnes).Of a generally square horizontal section, these platforms may have sides of several tens of meters, and a weight likely to reach several tens of thousands of tons (even several hundred thousand tons).

Elles supportent l'ensemble des moyens nécessaires pour l'extraction du pétrole, éventuellement aussi pour sa transformation sur place ; parfois encore elles comportent des équipements destinés à assurer une présence humaine à bord.They support all the means necessary for the extraction of oil, possibly also for its processing on site; sometimes they also include equipment intended to ensure a human presence on board.

Pour leur ancrage, on utilise très généralement plusieurs groupes de chaînes (appelées encore lignes de mouillage), chacun de ces groupes étant ménagé au niveau de l'un des angles de la plateforme.For anchoring, it is very generally used several groups of chains (also called anchor lines), each of these groups being arranged at one of the corners of the platform.

Chaque groupe d'ancrage comporte plusieurs chaînes (trois à huit par exemple) qui sont agencées parallèlement les unes aux autres.Each anchor group has several chains (three to eight for example) which are arranged parallel to each other.

Chaque chaîne d'ancrage consiste en une chaîne à maillons métalliques dont chacun présente une longueur de quelques dizaines de centimètres et est réalisé à partir d'un fil ayant par exemple 9 à 20 cm de diamètre.Each anchor chain consists of a chain with metal links each of which has a length of a few tens of centimeters and is made from a wire having for example 9 to 20 cm in diameter.

L'extrémité inférieure de chacune de ces chaînes d'ancrage comporte des moyens pour sa fixation au sol, par l'intermédiaire d'un massif enfoncé dans le fond marin. Leur extrémité supérieure s'étend jusqu'à un poste de manoeuvre qui est aménagé sur le côté de la plateforme, au-dessus de sa ligne de flottaison, pour leur manoeuvre par un treuil tensionneur.The lower end of each of these anchor chains comprises means for its attachment to the ground, through a solid sunken in the seabed. Their upper end extends to a maneuvering station which is arranged on the side of the platform, above its waterline, for their operation by a tensioner winch.

Entre leurs extrémités supérieure et inférieure, une zone intermédiaire de ces chaînes est associée à un dispositif de renvoi, dénommé couramment « chaumard ».Between their upper and lower ends, an intermediate zone of these chains is associated with a return device, commonly called "fairlead".

Ces chaumards sont fixés sur la plateforme, généralement sous le niveau de la ligne de flottaison.
Ils assurent le guidage d'un changement de direction de la chaîne d'ancrage associée entre, d'une part, un tronçon amont s'étendant verticalement depuis le poste de manoeuvre et, d'autre part, un tronçon aval s'étendant d'une manière inclinée jusqu'au massif enfoncé dans le fond marin.These fairleads are attached to the platform, usually below the waterline.
They provide guidance for a change of direction of the associated anchor chain between, on the one hand, an upstream section extending vertically from the operating station and, on the other hand, a downstream section extending from 'An inclined way up to the sunken bottom in the seabed.

La tension appliquée à chaque chaîne d'ancrage par le treuil tensionneur qui lui est associé est bloquée par des moyens stoppeurs dont certains peuvent être prévus au sein même du chaumard de renvoi.The tension applied to each anchor chain by the tensioner winch associated with it is blocked by stopper means some of which may be provided within the fairlead.

Les moyens stoppeurs en question comportent une mâchoire composée de deux mors articulés autour d'axes de rotation parallèles entre eux.The stopper means in question comprise a jaw composed of two jaws hinged about axes of rotation parallel to each other.

Ces mors sont associés à des moyens pour leur manoeuvre en rotation en sens inverse, entre :

  • une position active, pour le blocage en translation de ladite chaîne d'ancrage dans un sens amont vers aval, et
  • une position inactive, dans laquelle les deux mors sont écartés de sorte à autoriser la translation de la chaîne au sein du chaumard.
These jaws are associated with means for their rotation in the opposite direction, between:
  • an active position, for locking in translation of said anchor chain in an upstream direction to downstream, and
  • an inactive position, in which the two jaws are spaced so as to allow the translation of the chain within the fairlead.

Les moyens de manoeuvre correspondant consistent par exemple un vérin hydraulique, assurant une manoeuvre active depuis la position active jusqu'à la position inactive, et inversement.The corresponding actuating means consist for example of a hydraulic cylinder, ensuring active operation from the active position to the inactive position, and vice versa.

En pratique, les chaînes d'ancrage nécessitent d'être retendues, généralement tous les un à deux ans, pour compenser la détente liée notamment à l'usure par frottement des maillons.In practice, the anchor chains need to be tightened, generally every one to two years, to compensate for the relaxation associated in particular with the friction wear of the links.

Mais du fait de leur immersion permanente, la mâchoire équipant le chaumard, et ses moyens de manoeuvre, peuvent se bloquer par phénomène de grippage et d'usure, et peuvent donc ne pas être utilisables de manière sure au moment opportun.But because of their permanent immersion, the jaw equipping the fairlead, and its operating means, can become blocked by seizure phenomenon and wear, and may therefore not be used safely at the appropriate time.

C'est le cas notamment des vérins immergés ou des câbles de commande. L'état de la technique le plus proche est représenté dans le document US 2005/0072347 qui décrit le préambule de la revendication 1.This is particularly the case of submerged cylinders or control cables. The closest state of the art is shown in the document US 2005/0072347 which describes the preamble of claim 1.

La présente invention vise à pallier ces inconvénients, en proposant un chaumard apportant une manoeuvre fiable de la mâchoire au moins vers sa position active.The present invention aims to overcome these disadvantages by proposing a fairlead providing reliable maneuvering of the jaw at least to its active position.

Pour cela, le chaumard selon l'invention est du type comportant :

  1. (i) une structure de renvoi, pour guider un changement de direction de ladite chaîne d'ancrage associée, et
  2. (ii) une structure de verrouillage qui comporte une mâchoire composée de deux mors articulés autour d'axes de rotation parallèles entre eux, lesquels mors sont associés à des moyens pour leur manoeuvre en rotation en sens inverse, entre une position active, pour le blocage en translation de ladite chaîne d'ancrage dans un sens amont vers aval, et une position inactive, dans laquelle lesdits mors sont écartés de sorte à autoriser la translation de la chaîne au sein dudit chaumard.
Et, en plus, lesdits moyens de manoeuvre comportent :
  1. (a) une masse inerte, dite « contrepoids », qui est accouplée en mouvement avec lesdits mors et qui est manoeuvrable en hauteur entre une position basse et une position haute correspondant, respectivement, à ladite position active et à ladite position inactive desdits mors, de sorte à manoeuvrer et à tendre à maintenir lesdits mors dans ladite position active, et
  2. (b) un moyen actionneur, piloté par des moyens de commande, pour la manoeuvre desdits mors depuis ladite position active jusqu'à ladite position inactive et pour la manoeuvre dudit contrepoids depuis ladite position basse jusqu'à ladite position haute.
For this, the fairlead according to the invention is of the type comprising:
  1. (i) a return structure, for guiding a change of direction of said associated anchor chain, and
  2. (ii) a locking structure which comprises a jaw composed of two jaws hinged about axes of rotation parallel to each other, which jaws are associated with means for their maneuver in rotation in opposite directions, between an active position, for locking in translation of said anchor chain in an upstream to downstream direction, and an inactive position, wherein said jaws are spaced apart so as to allow translation of the chain within said fairlead.
And, in addition, said maneuvering means comprise:
  1. (a) an inert mass, called "counterweight", which is coupled in motion with said jaws and which is operable in height between a low position and a high position respectively corresponding to said active position and to said inactive position of said jaws, so as to maneuver and tend to hold said jaws in said active position, and
  2. (b) an actuator means, controlled by control means, for the operation of said jaws from said active position to said inactive position and for the operation of said counterweight from said low position to said high position.

Ainsi, en pratique, le contrepoids va tendre à maintenir les mors en position active. Pour libérer la chaîne d'ancrage en translation, le moyen actionneur manoeuvre les mors associés en position inactive. Cette action provoque également le déplacement du contrepoids en position haute, assurant l'accumulation d'une énergie potentielle mécanique (en l'occurrence une énergie potentielle de pesanteur), pour le retour automatique des mors en position active.Thus, in practice, the counterweight will tend to keep the jaws in the active position. To release the anchor chain in translation, the actuator means actuates the associated jaws in the inactive position. This action also causes the displacement of the counterweight in the high position, ensuring the accumulation of a potential mechanical energy (in this case a potential energy of gravity), for the automatic return of the jaws in the active position.

La structure de verrouillage comporte avantageusement une extrémité amont et une extrémité aval, respectivement du côté et à distance de la structure de renvoi ; et le contrepoids s'étend alors avantageusement au niveau de ladite extrémité aval de la structure de verrouillage.The locking structure advantageously comprises an upstream end and a downstream end, respectively on the side and at a distance from the return structure; and the counterweight then advantageously extends at the level of said downstream end of the locking structure.

Dans ce cas, le contrepoids est de préférence porté par deux bras supports aptes à pivoter autour d'un même axe de rotation s'étendant parallèlement par rapport à l'axe de rotation desdits mors ; et ce contrepoids en positions basse et haute est déporté avantageusement vers l'aval par rapport audit axe de rotation de ses bras supports.In this case, the counterweight is preferably carried by two support arms capable of pivoting about the same axis of rotation extending parallel to the axis of rotation of said jaws; and this counterweight in low and high positions is advantageously offset downstream with respect to said axis of rotation of its support arms.

Toujours dans ce cas, la structure de verrouillage comporte avantageusement un conduit aval de sortie ; et le contrepoids est avantageusement mobile au-dessus de ce conduit de sortie et comporte avantageusement une face inférieure dont la forme est adaptée pour épouser, en position basse, ledit conduit de sortie.Still in this case, the locking structure advantageously comprises a downstream outlet duct; and the counterweight is advantageously movable above this outlet duct and advantageously comprises a lower face whose shape is adapted to fit, in the low position, said outlet duct.

Le contrepoids et le moyen actionneur sont avantageusement assemblés avec l'un ou l'autre des deux mors ; et lesdits deux mors sont avantageusement accouplés mécaniquement par des moyens de transmission, pour leur synchronisation en rotation et en sens inverse.The counterweight and the actuator means are advantageously assembled with one or other of the two jaws; and said two jaws are advantageously mechanically coupled by transmission means, for their synchronization in rotation and in the opposite direction.

Dans ce cas et selon un mode de réalisation préféré, chaque mors est prolongée par au moins un bras formant manivelle ; le contrepoids et l'actionneur sont raccordés avec l'un au moins des bras manivelles de l'un ou l'autre desdits mors ; et au moins deux bras manivelles des deux mors sont reliés ensemble par une bielle.
Les bras supports du contrepoids consistent alors avantageusement en deux bras manivelles accouplés de part et d'autre de l'un des mors, et l'axe de rotation desdits bras supports est confondu avec l'axe de rotation dudit mors associé.In this case and according to a preferred embodiment, each jaw is extended by at least one arm crank; the counterweight and the actuator are connected with at least one of the crank arms of one or the other of said jaws; and at least two crank arms of the two jaws are connected together by a connecting rod.
The support arms of the counterweight then advantageously consist of two crank arms coupled on either side of one of the jaws, and the axis of rotation of said support arms coincides with the axis of rotation of said associated jaw.

Selon un mode de réalisation particulier, le moyen actionneur consiste en un câble de traction dont une extrémité est solidarisée avec l'extrémité d'un bras manivelle de l'un des mors de la mâchoire.According to a particular embodiment, the actuator means consists of a traction cable whose end is secured to the end of a crank arm of one of the jaws of the jaw.

Dans une autre forme de réalisation, ce moyen actionneur comprend un actionneur linéaire porté par la structure de verrouillage, et dont une extrémité mobile coopère avec au moins un bras manivelle de l'un au moins des mors de la mâchoire.
Cet actionneur linéaire consiste alors avantageusement en un vérin pneumatique, et le bras manivelle associé est muni d'une surface d'appui contre laquelle l'extrémité mobile dudit actionneur linéaire vient exercer une force pour la manoeuvre de la mâchoire depuis sa position active jusqu'à sa position inactive.In another embodiment, said actuator means comprises a linear actuator carried by the locking structure, and a movable end of which cooperates with at least one crank arm of at least one of the jaws of the jaw.
This linear actuator then advantageously consists of a pneumatic jack, and the associated crank arm is provided with a bearing surface against which the movable end of said linear actuator comes to exert a force for maneuvering the jaw from its active position to at its inactive position.

D'autre part, la structure de verrouillage du chaumard est solidarisée avec un degré de liberté en rotation sur la structure de renvoi ; l'axe de rotation de ladite structure de verrouillage est avantageusement parallèle par rapport aux axes de rotation des mors.On the other hand, the locking structure of the fairlead is secured with a degree of freedom in rotation on the return structure; the axis of rotation of said locking structure is advantageously parallel to the axes of rotation of the jaws.

L'invention sera encore illustrée, sans être aucunement limitée, par la description suivante de deux formes de réalisation particulières, données chacune uniquement à titre d'exemple et représentées sur les dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente partiellement une plateforme flottante, équipée d'une installation d'ancrage conforme à l'invention vue en légère perspective ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue agrandie de la partie supérieure de l'installation d'ancrage de la figure 1, selon une perspective permettant l'observation des chaînes d'ancrage juxtaposées ;
  • la figure 3 montre, en perspective et de manière agrandie, l'un des chaumards à contrepoids équipant l'installation d'ancrage selon la figure 1, dans laquelle les mors de la mâchoire (ici non visibles) sont en position active et le contrepoids associé en position basse, et dont le moyen actionneur pour la manoeuvre des mors en position inactive consiste en un câble de traction ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue de côté du chaumard de la figure 3 ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue en coupe du chaumard de la figure 4, sur laquelle les mors de mâchoire sont illustrés en position active ;
  • la figure 6 montre le chaumard selon les figures 3 à 5, dont les mors de la mâchoire (ici non visibles) sont maintenant en position inactive et le contrepoids associé en position haute ;
  • la figure 7 est une vue de côté du chaumard selon la figure 6 ;
  • la figure 8 est une vue en coupe transversale du chaumard selon la figure 7, montrant les mors de sa mâchoire en position inactive ;
  • la figure 9 représente une autre forme de réalisation du chaumard selon l'invention, dans laquelle le moyen actionneur pour la manoeuvre des mors consiste en un actionneur linéaire du genre vérin pneumatique ;
  • les figures 10 et 11 sont des vues de côté du chaumard selon la figure 9 montrant, respectivement, la configuration des moyens de manoeuvres pour les positions active et inactive des mors de la mâchoire (ici non visibles).
The invention will be further illustrated, without being limited in any way, by the following description of two particular embodiments, each given solely by way of example and shown in the accompanying drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 partially represents a floating platform, equipped with an anchoring installation according to the invention seen in slight perspective;
  • the figure 2 is an enlarged view of the upper part of the anchor installation of the figure 1 , from a perspective allowing the observation of juxtaposed anchor chains;
  • the figure 3 shows, in perspective and in an enlarged manner, one of the counterweight fairleads equipping the anchoring installation according to the figure 1 , in which the jaws of the jaw (here not visible) are in the active position and the associated counterweight in the low position, and whose actuator means for operating the jaws in the inactive position consists of a traction cable;
  • the figure 4 is a side view of the fairlead of the figure 3 ;
  • the figure 5 is a sectional view of the fairlead of the figure 4 , on which the jaw jaws are illustrated in the active position;
  • the figure 6 shows the fairlead according to Figures 3 to 5 , whose jaws of the jaw (here not visible) are now in the inactive position and the associated counterweight in the high position;
  • the figure 7 is a side view of the fairlead according to the figure 6 ;
  • the figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fairlead according to the figure 7 , showing the jaws of his jaw in inactive position;
  • the figure 9 represents another embodiment of the fairlead according to the invention, wherein the actuator means for handling the jaws consists of a linear actuator of the pneumatic cylinder type;
  • the Figures 10 and 11 are side views of the fairlead according to the figure 9 showing, respectively, the configuration of the maneuvering means for the active and inactive positions of the jaws of the jaw (here not visible).

Tel que représenté schématiquement sur la figure 1, les chaumards à stoppeur 1 selon l'invention sont destinés à faire partie d'une installation 2 pour l'ancrage au sol d'une plateforme flottante P (cette plateforme P est ici représentée uniquement partiellement).As shown schematically on the figure 1 , the stopper fairleads 1 according to the invention are intended to be part of an installation 2 for the ground anchoring of a floating platform P (this platform P is shown here only partially).

Cette plateforme P flotte sur la masse d'eau M, au-dessus du sol S du fond marin, en définissant une ligne de flottaison F.This platform P floats on the body of water M , above the soil S of the seabed, by defining a waterline F.

L'installation d'ancrage 2 est constituée de plusieurs groupes d'ancrage G, par exemple aménagés chacun au niveau de l'un des angles de la plateforme P (sur la figure 1, seul l'un de ces groupes d'ancrage G est représenté).The anchoring installation 2 consists of several anchoring groups G, for example each arranged at one of the corners of the platform P (on the figure 1 only one of these anchor groups G is shown).

Tel qu'illustré sur la figure 2, chaque groupe d'ancrage G comprend une pluralité de chaînes d'ancrage C (ici sept chaînes d'ancrage C) qui sont juxtaposées et disposées parallèlement ou sensiblement parallèlement les unes par rapport aux autres.As illustrated on the figure 2 , each anchor group G comprises a plurality of anchor chains C (here seven anchor chains C ) which are juxtaposed and arranged parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

Chaque chaîne d'ancrage C est formée d'une pluralité de maillons métalliques entrelacés deux à deux.Each anchor chain C is formed of a plurality of metal links intertwined two by two.

Ces maillons de chaînes sont réalisés en acier ; leur longueur peut être de l'ordre de 50 à 120 cm et leur largeur peut être de l'ordre de 30 à 80 cm. Ils sont réalisés à partir d'un fil dont le diamètre est par exemple compris entre 9 et 20 cm.These chain links are made of steel; their length may be of the order of 50 to 120 cm and their width may be of the order of 30 to 80 cm. They are made from a wire whose diameter is for example between 9 and 20 cm.

L'extrémité inférieure aval C1 des chaînes d'ancrage C est fixée par tout moyen approprié à un massif T posé sur le sol S du fond marin, ou de préférence enfoncé dans ce sol S (sur la figure 1, seule l'extrémité inférieure C1 de l'une des chaînes C est représentée).The lower end downstream C1 anchor chains C is fixed by any appropriate means to a massive T placed on the ground S of the seabed, or preferably driven into the soil S (on the figure 1 only the lower end C1 of one of the chains C is shown).

L'extrémité supérieure amont C2 des différentes chaînes C s'étend jusqu'à un poste de manoeuvre 3 équipant la platëforme P, au-dessus de la ligne de flottaison F, et en l'occurrence ici au niveau de la partie supérieure de la plateforme P.The upstream upper end C2 of the various chains C extends to a maneuvering station 3 equipping the platform P , above the waterline F , and in this case at the upper part of the platform P.

Au sein de ce poste de manoeuvre 3 (représenté en particulier sur la figure 2), on trouve notamment :

  • des moyens stoppeurs 4, aptes à assurer un blocage en translation de chacune des chaînes C, et
  • des moyens tensionneurs 5, comprenant ici un treuil tensionneur unique monté mobile en translation au-dessus des moyens stoppeurs 4 pour la mise en tension de chacune des chaînes C constitutives du groupe d'ancrage G.
Within this maneuver station 3 (represented in particular on the figure 2 ), we find in particular:
  • stopper means 4, able to ensure a locking in translation of each of the chains C , and
  • tensioning means 5, here comprising a single tensioner winch mounted to move in translation over the stopper means 4 for tensioning each of the chains C constituting the anchor group G.

Les moyens stoppeurs 4 qui coopèrent avec chaque chaîne C consistent en des mécanismes de type mâchoire comportant deux mors articulés autour d'axes horizontaux.The stopper means 4 which cooperate with each chain C consist of jaw type mechanisms comprising two jaws articulated around horizontal axes.

Ces mors sont actionnables en sens inverse l'un par rapport à l'autre (par exemple au moyen d'un volant de manoeuvre) entre - une position active, pour le blocage en translation de la chaîne d'ancrage C associée dans un sens amont vers aval, et - une position inactive, dans laquelle ils sont écartés l'un de l'autre de sorte à autoriser la translation de la chaîne C.These jaws are operable in opposite directions with respect to each other (for example by means of an operating wheel) between - an active position, for locking in translation of the anchor chain C associated in one direction upstream to downstream, and - an inactive position, in which they are spaced from each other so as to allow the translation of the chain C.

Le treuil tensionneur 5 consiste par exemple en un treuil électrique, apte à manoeuvrer dans les deux sens la chaîne d'ancrage C qui lui est associée.The tensioner winch 5 consists for example of an electric winch, able to maneuver in both directions the anchor chain C associated therewith.

Ce treuil tensionneur 5 est monté ici sur un châssis roulant guidé par une structure de rail, qui est aménagée le long d'un chemin de roulement parallèle aux moyens stoppeurs 4.This tensioning winch 5 is mounted here on a rolling chassis guided by a rail structure, which is arranged along a raceway parallel to the stopper means 4.

De manière alternative et non représentée, l'extrémité supérieure C2 de chacune des chaînes d'ancrage C est associée avec son propre treuil tensionneur fixe.Alternatively and not shown, the upper end C2 of each anchor chain C is associated with its own fixed tensioner winch.

Chaque chaîne d'ancrage C présente encore une zone intermédiaire C3, s'étendant entre son extrémité inférieure C1 et son extrémité supérieure C2. Each anchor chain C also has an intermediate zone C3 extending between its lower end C1 and its upper end C2.

Cette zone intermédiaire C3 coopère avec l'un des chaumards 1, fixé ici sur la plateforme P et sous le niveau de sa ligne de flottaison F.This intermediate zone C3 cooperates with one of the fairleads 1, fixed here on the platform P and below the level of its water line F.

Ce chaumard 1 permet de déporter, sous la ligne de flottaison F, le point à partir duquel la chaîne d'ancrage associée C s'écarte de la plateforme P (figure 1).This fairlead 1 makes it possible to deport below the waterline F the point from which the associated anchoring chain C deviates from the platform P ( figure 1 ).

Chaque chaumard 1 assure ainsi le guidage d'un changement de direction de cette zone intermédiaire C3 de la chaîne d'ancrage C, entre :

  • un tronçon amont vertical C4 (ou brin amont vertical), s'étendant depuis le poste de manoeuvre 3 (plus précisément les moyens stoppeurs 4 associés) et ce jusqu'au chaumard 1, et
  • un tronçon aval incliné C5 (ou brin aval incliné), s'étendant selon une pente descendante depuis ce chaumard 1 jusqu'à son massif d'ancrage T au sol S.
Each fairlead 1 thus guards a change of direction of this intermediate zone C3 of the anchor chain C , between:
  • a vertical upstream section C4 (or upstream vertical strand), extending from the operating station 3 (more precisely the stopper means 4 associated) and up to the fairlead 1, and
  • an inclined downstream section C5 (or downstream inclined strand), extending in a downward slope from this fairlead 1 to its T ground anchor S.

Tel qu'illustré sur les figures 1 et 2, un tronçon de goulotte 6 participe au guidage et au maintien du tronçon vertical C4 de chaque chaîne d'ancrage C.As illustrated on Figures 1 and 2 , a chute section 6 participates in guiding and maintaining the vertical section C4 of each anchor chain C.

La structure et le fonctionnement du chaumard 1 selon l'invention sont précisés dans le cadre d'un premier mode de réalisation décrit ci-dessous en relation avec les figures 3 à 8.The structure and operation of the fairlead 1 according to the invention are specified in the context of a first embodiment described below in relation to the Figures 3 to 8 .

Tel qu'illustré par les figures 3 et 4, le chaumard 1 comporte :

  1. (i) une structure de renvoi 10, pour guider le changement de direction de la chaîne d'ancrage C entre son tronçon amont vertical C4 et son tronçon aval incliné C5, et
  2. (ii) une structure de verrouillage 11, pour le blocage en translation de la chaîne d'ancrage C coopérant avec ce chaumard 1.
As illustrated by Figures 3 and 4 , the fairlead 1 comprises:
  1. (i) a return structure 10, to guide the change of direction of the anchor chain C between its vertical upstream section C4 and its inclined downstream section C5 , and
  2. (ii) a locking structure 11, for locking in translation of the anchoring chain C cooperating with this fairlead 1.

La structure de renvoi 10 est portée par une partie support 12, pour sa solidarisation avec la plateforme flottante P.The return structure 10 is carried by a support portion 12, for its attachment to the floating platform P.

Cette partie support 12 consiste ici en un ensemble de plaques métalliques qui sont solidarisées avec la plateforme flottante P, par exemple par soudage et/ou par des pièces rapportées (boulonnage, rivetage, etc.).This support portion 12 here consists of a set of metal plates which are secured to the floating platform P , for example by welding and / or by inserts (bolting, riveting, etc.).

Cette partie support 12 porte la structure de renvoi 10 de sorte à lui conférer un degré de liberté en rotation autour d'un axe 13 s'étendant verticalement, ou au moins approximativement verticalement.This support portion 12 carries the return structure 10 so as to give it a degree of freedom in rotation about an axis 13 extending vertically, or at least approximately vertically.

Pour cela, la partie support 12 comporte un palier lisse cylindrique 14 (visible sur la figure 5) sur lequel est emmanchée et guidée une partie arrière cylindrique 15 (formant tourillon) de la structure de renvoi 10.For this, the support portion 12 comprises a cylindrical plain bearing 14 (visible on the figure 5 ) on which is fitted and guided a cylindrical rear portion (forming a trunnion) of the return structure 10.

Cette structure de renvoi 10 est munie encore d'une partie 17 pour guider le changement de direction de la chaîne d'ancrage C associée.This return structure 10 is also provided with a portion 17 to guide the change of direction of the associated anchor chain C.

Cette partie de guidage 17 consiste ici en un organe à section transversale horizontale en forme de U, qui se compose d'une paroi métallique avant 171 (à distance de la partie arrière cylindrique 15) prolongée par deux parois latérales verticale 172 à distance et en regard l'une de l'autre.This guide portion 17 here consists of a U-shaped horizontal cross section member, which consists of a front metal wall 171 (away from the cylindrical rear portion 15) extended by two vertical side walls 172 at a distance and in look at each other.

La paroi métallique avant 171 présente une section en forme de générale de Vé, agencé de sorte que son plan de symétrie passe par l'axe vertical de rotation 13 précité.The front metal wall 171 has a generally V-shaped section, arranged so that its plane of symmetry passes through the aforementioned vertical axis of rotation 13.

Cette paroi avant 171 comporte une arête centrale 173 qui s'étend à distance de l'axe vertical de rotation 13 de la structure de renvoi 10 ; elle comporte encore deux volets latéraux 174, divergeant vers l'arrière depuis l'arête 173 précitée et prolongés chacun par l'une des parois latérales 172.This front wall 171 has a central edge 173 which extends away from the vertical axis of rotation 13 of the return structure 10; it also comprises two lateral flaps 174, diverging rearwardly from the aforementioned edge 173 and each extended by one of the side walls 172.

L'arête 173 présente une forme courbe, avec sa convexité orientée vers la partie arrière 15. Par exemple, cette arête 173 est en forme générale d'arc de cercle, dont le rayon est d'une valeur comprise entre 50 et 100 cm. Le centre de ce rayon se situe à l'opposé de la partie arrière 15.The edge 173 has a curved shape, with its convexity oriented towards the rear portion 15. For example, this edge 173 is in the general shape of a circular arc, whose radius is a value between 50 and 100 cm. The center of this radius is opposite the rear part 15.

Les volets divergents 174 présentent quant à eux une forme générale de segment de tronc de cône, dont le petit diamètre est formé par l'arête 173 précitée.The divergent flaps 174 have in turn a general shape of truncated cone segment, whose small diameter is formed by the edge 173 above.

Les parois latérales 172 s'étendent quant à elles jusqu'à la partie arrière 15, fixées de part et d'autre de cette dernière.The side walls 172 extend as far as the rear portion 15, fixed on either side of the latter.

La partie de guidage 17, portée par la partie arrière 15, présente ainsi un degré de liberté autour de l'axe vertical de rotation 13.The guide portion 17, carried by the rear portion 15, thus has a degree of freedom around the vertical axis of rotation 13.

La partie de guidage 17 définit; avec la partie arrière 15, un conduit 178 (figure 5) destiné à être traversé par la chaîne d'ancrage C. The guide portion 17 defines; with the rear part 15, a duct 178 ( figure 5 ) intended to be traversed by the anchor chain C.

La paroi métallique avant 171 présente une face arrière (située en regard de la partie arrière 15) qui délimite le conduit 178 et qui est destinée à coopérer avec la chaîne d'ancrage C pour assurer son guidage et lui conférer son cintrage. De même, les faces en regard des parois latérales 172 délimitent latéralement ce conduit 178 et concourent au verrouillage latéral de la chaîne d'ancrage C.The front metal wall 171 has a rear face (located opposite the rear part 15) which delimits the duct 178 and which is intended to cooperate with the anchor chain C to ensure its guidance and confer its bending. Similarly, the facing faces of the side walls 172 laterally delimit the duct 178 and contribute to the lateral locking of the anchor chain C.

Cette partie de guidage 17 est dimensionnée en fonction de la taille des mailles constitutives de la chaîne d'ancrage C. This guide portion 17 is dimensioned according to the size of the meshes constituting the anchor chain C.

En particulier, la distance séparant les deux parois latérales 172 en regard est avantageusement identique, ou légèrement supérieure, à la largeur des maillons de la chaîne C.
De même, la profondeur de la paroi avant 171 correspond avantageusement à la moitié de la largeur des maillons de la chaîne C (ou est légèrement inférieure à cette valeur).In particular, the distance separating the two side walls 172 opposite is advantageously identical to, or slightly greater than, the width of the links of the chain C.
Likewise, the depth of the front wall 171 advantageously corresponds to half the width of the links of the chain C (or is slightly less than this value).

Mais, en pratique, cette paroi avant 171 est adaptée pour recevoir plusieurs dimensions de maillons de chaîne, voire même un câble utile lors de l'installation de la chaîne d'ancrage.But in practice, this front wall 171 is adapted to receive several dimensions of chain links, or even a useful cable during the installation of the anchor chain.

La structure de verrouillage 11 comporte quant à elle une partie support 20 portant une mâchoire 21 (visible sur la figure 5) associée à des moyens de manoeuvre 22.The locking structure 11 has in turn a support portion 20 carrying a jaw 21 (visible on the figure 5 ) associated with maneuvering means 22.

La partie support 20 est constituée ici par deux plaques métalliques 201, agencées parallèlement et à distance l'une de l'autre, qui comportent chacune deux extrémités :

  • une extrémité amont 202, montée pivotante sur l'une des parois latérales 172 de la partie de guidage 17, cela autour d'un même axe transversal de rotation 23, et
  • une extrémité aval 203, portant ensemble un organe tubulaire 24 à section carrée pour le guidage du tronçon aval C5 de la chaîne d'ancrage C.
The support portion 20 is constituted here by two metal plates 201, arranged parallel and at a distance from one another, which each comprise two ends:
  • an upstream end 202, pivotally mounted on one of the side walls 172 of the guide portion 17, around a same transverse axis of rotation 23, and
  • a downstream end 203, together carrying a tubular member 24 with a square section for guiding the downstream section C5 of the anchor chain C.

Ces extrémités amont 202 et aval 203 constituent encore, respectivement, les extrémités amont et aval de la structure de verrouillage 11.These upstream ends 202 and downstream ends 203 still constitute, respectively, the upstream and downstream ends of the locking structure 11.

L'axe transversal de rotation 23 constitue ainsi également l'axe de rotation de cette structure de verrouillage 11. Cet axe de rotation 23 est ici horizontal et s'étend perpendiculairement à l'axe de rotation vertical 13.The transverse axis of rotation 23 thus also constitutes the axis of rotation of this locking structure 11. This axis of rotation 23 is here horizontal and extends perpendicularly to the vertical axis of rotation 13.

On note également que cette structure de verrouillage 11 portée par la structure de renvoi 10 est mobile autour de l'axe vertical de rotation 13 précité.It is also noted that this locking structure 11 carried by the return structure 10 is movable about the vertical axis of rotation 13 above.

La mâchoire 21, implantée entre les deux plaques latérales 201 de l'élément support 20 (au niveau de leur extrémité aval 203), se compose de deux mors 211, l'un inférieur 211a et l'autre supérieur 211 b (figure 5).The jaw 21, located between the two side plates 201 of the support member 20 (at their downstream end 203), is composed of two jaws 211, 211 has one lower and one upper 211 b ( figure 5 ).

Ces mors 211 comportent chacun deux extrémités :

  • une extrémité aval 212, articulée autour d'un axe de rotation 213 (respectivement 213a et 213b), et
  • une extrémité amont 214, destinée à coopérer avec les maillons de la chaîne d'ancrage C (figure 5), en particulier avec l'extrémité aval des maillons s'étendant dans un plan vertical.
These jaws 211 each have two ends:
  • a downstream end 212 articulated around an axis of rotation 213 (respectively 213 a and 213 b ), and
  • an upstream end 214, intended to cooperate with the links of the anchor chain C ( figure 5 ), in particular with the downstream end of the links extending in a vertical plane.

Les axes de rotation 213 de ces deux mors 211 s'étendent horizontalement, parallèlement l'un par rapport à l'autre et aussi parallèlement par rapport à l'axe transversal de rotation 23 de cette structure de verrouillage 11.The axes of rotation 213 of these two jaws 211 extend horizontally, parallel to one another and also parallel to the transverse axis of rotation 23 of this locking structure 11.

Ces mors 211 coopèrent avec des moyens 22 pour leur manoeuvre en rotation, à savoir:

  • une masse inerte 25, dite « contrepoids », qui est mobile entre une position basse (figures 3 à 5) et une position haute (figures 6 à 8), et qui est accouplée en mouvement avec les mors 211 pour leur mouvement dans un premier sens de rotation, et
  • un moyen actionneur 26, pour une manoeuvre des mors 211 dans un sens de rotation inverse.
These jaws 211 cooperate with means 22 for their rotational maneuver, namely:
  • an inert mass 25, called "counterweight", which is movable between a low position ( Figures 3 to 5 ) and a high position ( Figures 6 to 8 ), and which is coupled in motion with the jaws 211 for their movement in a first direction of rotation, and
  • an actuator means 26 for operating the jaws 211 in a reverse direction of rotation.

Ces moyens de manoeuvre 22 comportent encore des bras 27; 28 et 29 formant chacun une sorte de manivelle, assurant la coopération entre les mors 211, le contrepoids 25 et le moyen actionneur 26.
Ces bras manivelles 27, 28 et 29 prolongent l'un ou l'autre des deux mors 211 précités, pour leur manoeuvre.These operating means 22 also comprise arms 27; 28 and 29 each forming a kind of crank, ensuring cooperation between the jaws 211, the counterweight 25 and the actuator means 26.
These crank arms 27, 28 and 29 extend one or the other of the two jaws 211 above, for their operation.

Le contrepoids 25 présente une forme générale de Vé ou de U ouvert vers le bas, destiné en position basse à chevaucher l'organe tubulaire 24 de la structure de verrouillage 11 (figures 3 à 5 - le maillon horizontal en aval du maillon vertical en appui bloque la fermeture des mors et donc la descente du contrepoids 25 juste au-dessus et sans contact de l'organe tubulaire 24).The counterweight 25 has the general shape of a Ve or U open downwards, intended in a low position to overlap the tubular member 24 of the locking structure 11 ( Figures 3 to 5 - The horizontal link downstream of the vertical link in support blocks the closure of the jaws and therefore the descent of the counterweight 25 just above and without contact with the tubular member 24).

Ce contrepoids 25 présente par exemple une masse comprise entre 100 kg et 2000 kg.This counterweight 25 has for example a mass of between 100 kg and 2000 kg.

Ce contrepoids 25 est porté par deux premiers bras manivelles 27 raccordés avec le mors inférieur 211a de la mâchoire 21.This counterweight 25 is carried by two first arms cranks 27 connected with the lower jaw 211 of the jaw 21.

Chaque premier bras manivelle 27 comporte, d'une part, une extrémité aval 271 solidarisée avec une extrémité latérale du contrepoids 25, et d'autre part, une extrémité amont 272 solidarisée avec le mors inférieur 211a.Each first crank arm 27 comprises, firstly, a downstream end 271 secured to a side end of the counterweight 25, and on the other hand, an upstream end 272 secured to the lower jaw 211 a.

La distance entre ces deux extrémités 271 et 272, autrement dit encore le rayon de rotation du contrepoids 25, est avantageusement comprise entre 1 et 2 mThe distance between these two ends 271 and 272, in other words still the radius of rotation of the counterweight 25, is advantageously between 1 and 2 m

Ces premiers bras manivelles 27 ont chacun une forme générale cintrée.These first crank arms 27 each have a generally curved shape.

L'extrémité amont 272 de l'un de ces premiers bras manivelle 27 se poursuit par un prolongement amont 273 (visible seulement sur la figure 9 pour le second mode de réalisation).The upstream end 272 of one of these first crank arms 27 continues with an upstream extension 273 (visible only on the figure 9 for the second embodiment).

Les premiers bras manivelles 27 sont ainsi accouplés de part et d'autre du mors inférieur 211a, assurant la manoeuvre de ces bras manivelles 27 et du contrepoids 25 associé selon l'axe de rotation 213a dudit mors inférieur 211 a associé.The first crank arm 27 are thus coupled to either side of the lower jaw 211, ensuring the operation of the crank arms 27 and associated counterweight 25 along the axis of rotation 213 of said lower jaw 211 is associated.

Le moyen actionneur 26 consiste ici en un câble de traction 261 dont l'extrémité aval est munie d'un organe 262 pour sa fixation amovible avec un second bras manivelle 28 accouplé également au mors inférieur 211a.The actuator means 26 here consists of a traction cable 261 whose downstream end is provided with a body 262 for its removable attachment with a second crank arm 28 also coupled to the lower jaw 211 a.

Cet organe de fixation 262 consiste ici en une platine munie d'une lumière 263, en l'occurrence de forme générale triangulaire.This fixing member 262 here consists of a plate provided with a light 263, in this case of generally triangular shape.

L'extrémité amont de ce câble de traction 261 est quant à elle associée à un treuil auxiliaire (non représenté) situé au niveau des moyens tensionneurs 5 du poste de manoeuvre 3.The upstream end of this traction cable 261 is associated with an auxiliary winch (not shown) located at the level of the tensioning means 5 of the operating station 3.

Le second bras manivelle 28 associé comporte quant à lui, au niveau de son extrémité libre (à distance du mors inférieur 211a), une platine 281 portée par une tige intercalaire (non visible).The second associated crank arm 28 comprises meanwhile, at its free end (at a distance from the lower jaw 211 a ), a plate 281 carried by a spacer rod (not visible).

Cette platine 281 présente également une forme triangulaire, complémentaire de celle de la lumière 263 de l'organe de fixation 262, pour former ensemble un système du type détrompeur.This plate 281 also has a triangular shape, complementary to that of the light 263 of the fastener 262, to form together a keying type system.

Cette platine 281 est agencée de sorte que son contour soit pivoté, avantageusement à 180°, par rapport à la lumière 263 de l'organe de fixation 262 associé.This plate 281 is arranged so that its contour is rotated, preferably 180 °, relative to the light 263 of the associated fastener 262.

Pour séparer l'organe de fixation 262, il convient alors de pivoter ce dernier à 180° de sorte à mettre en correspondance sa lumière 263 avec la platine 281 ; l'organe de fixation 262 peut ensuite être séparé par translation latérale parallèlement à lui-même de sorte que la platine 281 passe au travers de la lumière 263 de l'organe de fixation 262.To separate the fastener 262, it is then necessary to pivot the latter to 180 ° so as to match its light 263 with the plate 281; the fixing member 262 can then be separated by lateral translation parallel to itself so that the plate 281 passes through the slot 263 of the fixing member 262.

Le câble de traction 261 est en plus guidé par un organe de renvoi 265, fixé sur la structure de renvoi 10 au niveau de l'axe de rotation transversal 23 de la structure de verrouillage 11.The traction cable 261 is further guided by a deflection member 265 fixed to the deflection structure 10 at the level of the transverse axis of rotation 23 of the locking structure 11.

Le troisième bras manivelle 29 est quant à lui accouplé avec le mors supérieur 211b de la mâchoire 21.The third crank arm 29 is in turn coupled with the upper jaw 211 b of the jaw 21.

Une bielle 30 raccorde au moins deux desdits trois bras manivelles 27, 28 et 29, pour former un moyen de transmission assurant une synchronisation en rotation des mors 211 et en sens inverse.A connecting rod 30 connects at least two of said three crank arms 27, 28 and 29, to form a transmission means ensuring synchronization in rotation of the jaws 211 and in the opposite direction.

En l'occurrence, la bielle 30 est reliée de manière pivotante avec :

  • l'extrémité libre du troisième bras manivelle 29 (accouplé avec le mors supérieur 211 b), et
  • le prolongement amont 273 des premiers bras manivelles 27 accouplés au mors inférieur 211a (visible sur la figure 9 pour le second mode de réalisation).
In this case, the connecting rod 30 is pivotally connected with:
  • the free end of the third crank arm 29 (coupled with the upper jaw 211b), and
  • the upstream extension 273 of the first arm cranks 27 coupled to the lower jaw 211 (visible in figure 9 for the second embodiment).

Cette extrémité libre du troisième bras manivelle 29 s'étend d'un premier côté (aval) par rapport à un plan passant par les axes de rotation 213 des mors 211. Les premiers bras manivelles 27 s'étendent également de ce premier côté (aval).
Le second bras manivelle 28 et le prolongement amont 273 des premiers bras manivelles 27 s'étendent d'un second côté (amont) par rapport à ce plan passant par les axes de rotation 213 des mors 211.This free end of the third crank arm 29 extends from a first (downstream) side with respect to a plane passing through the axes of rotation 213 of the jaws 211. The first crank arms 27 also extend from this first side (downstream). ).
The second crank arm 28 and the upstream extension 273 of the first crank arms 27 extend from a second (upstream) side with respect to this plane passing through the axes of rotation 213 of the jaws 211.

En pratique, pour le blocage en translation de la chaîne d'ancrage C dans un sens amont vers aval, les mors 211 de la mâchoire 21 sont manoeuvrés dans une position active (visible sur la figure 5).
Les extrémités amont 214 de ces mors 211, rapprochées l'une par rapport à l'autre, viennent alors en butée sur l'un des maillons de cette chaîne d'ancrage C (à savoir un maillon s'étendant ici verticalement, et parallèlement aux plaques 201) ; ces mors 211 sont ainsi convergeant depuis leurs extrémités aval 212 jusqu'à leurs extrémités amont 214.In practice, for locking in translation of the anchor chain C in an upstream to downstream direction, the jaws 211 of the jaw 21 are maneuvered in an active position (visible on the figure 5 ).
The upstream ends 214 of these jaws 211, brought closer to one another, then abut on one of the links of this anchor chain C (namely a link extending here vertically, and in parallel to the plates 201); these jaws 211 are thus converging from their downstream ends 212 to their upstream ends 214.

Cette position active est maintenue grâce au contrepoids 25 en position basse, accouplé au mors inférieur 211a par l'intermédiaire de ses bras manivelles 27.This active position is maintained thanks to the counterweight 25 in the low position, coupled to the lower jaw 211 has through its crank arm 27.

Le contrepoids 25 est ici directement sus-jacent du conduit aval 24, et s'étend ainsi juste au-dessus du tronçon aval C5 de la chaîne d'ancrage C.The counterweight 25 is here directly overlying the downstream conduit 24, and thus extends just above the downstream section C5 of the anchor chain C.

Ce contrepoids 25 exerce ainsi un moment de force sur le mors inférieur 211a par l'intermédiaire de ses bras manivelles 27, dans un premier sens de rotation (ici horaire sur les figures) ; la bielle 30 génère un moment de force sur le mors supérieur 211 b par l'intermédiaire du troisième bras manivelle 29, dans un second sens de rotation (anti-horaire).This counterweight 25 thus exerts a moment of force on the lower jaw 211 has through its crank arm 27 in a first rotational direction (here clockwise in the figures); the rod 30 generates a moment of force on the upper jaw 211b through the third crank arm 29, in a second direction of rotation (anti-clockwise).

Lorsque la chaîne d'ancrage C doit subir un mouvement au sein de l'installation d'ancrage 2, en particulier un mouvement dans le sens amont vers aval, les mors 211 sont manoeuvrés en position inactive (figure 8).When the anchoring chain C must undergo a movement within the anchoring installation 2, in particular a movement in the upstream to downstream direction, the jaws 211 are maneuvered in the inactive position ( figure 8 ).

Pour cela, des moyens de commande sont pilotés, par exemple par un opérateur, de sorte que le câble de traction 261 soit manoeuvré en translation dans un sens aval vers amont.For this, control means are controlled, for example by an operator, so that the traction cable 261 is maneuvered in translation in a downstream direction to upstream.

Son organe d'extrémité 262 exerce ainsi une traction sur le bras manivelle 28 associé, dans un sens aval vers amont. Cette force de traction provoque alors le pivotement du mors inférieur 211a qui lui est accouplé, dans un premier sens de rotation (sens anti-horaire sur les figures 3 à 8).Its end member 262 thus exerts traction on the associated crank arm 28, in a downstream direction towards upstream. This pulling force then causes pivoting of the lower jaw 211 a which is coupled to it, in a first direction of rotation (counter-clockwise on the Figures 3 to 8 ).

Cette action provoque la rotation en sens inverse du mors supérieur 211b, par transmission de l'effort par la bielle 30 (dans le sens horaire pour les figures 3 à 8).This action causes the reverse rotation of the upper jaw 211 b, by transmission of force by the link 30 (clockwise for Figures 3 to 8 ).

Les mors 211 atteignent ainsi la position inactive (figure 8), dans laquelle leurs extrémités 214 sont écartées de sorte à libérer la translation de la chaîne C au sein du chaumard 1.The jaws 211 thus reach the inactive position ( figure 8 ), in which their ends 214 are spaced so as to release the translation of the chain C within the fairlead 1.

Lors de cette manoeuvre de la mâchoire 21, le contrepoids 25 est quant à lui déplacé depuis sa position basse (à proximité du tronçon tubulaire aval 24 - figure 3 à 5), jusqu'à une position haute (à distance de ce même tronçon tubulaire 24 - figures 6 à 8).During this maneuver of the jaw 21, the counterweight 25 is moved from its low position (near the downstream tubular section 24 - figure 3 to 5 ), up to a high position (at a distance from this same tubular section 24 - Figures 6 to 8 ).

Le contrepoids 25 manoeuvré dans cette position haute permet l'accumulation d'une énergie potentielle mécanique, en particulier d'une énergie potentielle de pesanteur.The counterweight 25 operated in this high position allows the accumulation of a potential mechanical energy, in particular a potential energy of gravity.

On notera que le contrepoids 25 en position basse (figures 3 à 5) et en position haute (figures 6 à 8) est déporté vers l'aval par rapport à son axe de rotation 213a (c'est-à-dire encore déporté vers l'aval par rapport à l'axe de rotation de ses bras manivelles 27 associés). Son centre de gravité reste ainsi toujours du côté aval par rapport au plan vertical passant par cet axe de rotation 213a, favorisant ainsi son pivotement dans le sens horaire selon les figures 3 à 8.It will be noted that the counterweight 25 in the low position ( Figures 3 to 5 ) and in the high position ( Figures 6 to 8 ) Is offset downstream with respect to its axis of rotation 213 (that is to say still offset downstream with respect to the axis of rotation of its arm 27 associated cranks). Its center of gravity thus remains always on the downstream side with respect to the vertical plane passing through this axis of rotation 213 a , thus favoring its pivoting in the clockwise direction according to the Figures 3 to 8 .

Ainsi, pour bloquer la chaîne d'ancrage C dans le chaumard 1, il suffit de relâcher le câble de traction 261.Thus, to lock the anchor chain C in the fairlead 1, just release the pull cable 261.

Le contrepoids 25 exerce un moment de force sur le mors inférieur 211a par l'intermédiaire de ses bras manivelles 27, dans un sens de rotation horaire, et la bielle 30 transmet un moment de force sur le mors supérieur 211 b, dans un sens de rotation anti-horaire.The counterweight 25 exerts a moment of force on the lower jaw 211 via crank arms 27, in clockwise direction, and the rod 30 transmits a moment of force on the upper jaw 211 b, in one direction anti-clockwise rotation.

La présence d'un tel contrepoids 25 pour la manoeuvre et le maintien des mors 211 dans la position active est également utile lors de la mise en tension de la chaîne d'ancrage C ou pour resserrer une chaîne d'ancrage C légèrement détendue.
En effet, il suffit alors d'exercer une traction dans le sens aval vers amont sur la chaîne d'ancrage C ; les mors 211 assurant un phénomène de cliquet sous l'action du contrepoids 25 associé (les mors 211 sont écartés au passage de chaque maillon vertical de la chaîne).The presence of such a counterweight 25 for the operation and maintenance of the jaws 211 in the active position is also useful when tensioning the anchor chain C or to tighten a slightly relaxed anchoring chain C.
Indeed, it is then sufficient to exert traction in the downstream direction upstream on the anchor chain C ; the jaws 211 providing a ratchet phenomenon under the action of the associated counterweight (the jaws 211 are spaced apart at the passage of each vertical link of the chain).

Les figures 9 à 11 illustrent un second mode de réalisation de l'invention.The Figures 9 to 11 illustrate a second embodiment of the invention.

Ce chaumard 1 est similaire à celui décrit ci-dessus en relation avec les figures 3 à 8, en ce sens qu'il comporte une structure de renvoi 10 portant une structure de verrouillage 11.This fairlead 1 is similar to that described above in relation to the Figures 3 to 8 in that it comprises a return structure 10 carrying a locking structure 11.

On retrouve également la mâchoire 21 composée de mors articulés 211 (non visibles sur les figures 9 à 11) qui sont manoeuvrables en rotation entre la position active et la position inactive précitées.There is also the jaw 21 composed of hinged jaws 211 (not visible on the Figures 9 to 11 ) which are operable in rotation between the active position and the inactive position mentioned above.

Ce chaumard 1 comporte encore des moyens de manoeuvre 22 comportant : (i) le contrepoids 25, pour manoeuvrer et maintenir les mors 211 dans la position active, et (ii) un moyen actionneur 35, piloté par des moyens de commande (non représentés), pour la manoeuvre des mors 211 depuis la position active jusqu'à la position inactive et pour la manoeuvre du contrepoids 25 depuis sa position basse jusqu'à sa position haute.This fairlead 1 further comprises maneuvering means 22 comprising: (i) the counterweight 25, for manipulating and holding the jaws 211 in the active position, and (ii) an actuator means 35, driven by control means (not shown) , for maneuvering the jaws 211 from the active position to the inactive position and for maneuvering the counterweight 25 from its low position to its high position.

Là encore, le contrepoids 25 est accouplé en rotation avec le mors inférieur 211a par les deux premiers bras 27 de sorte à lui conférer un mouvement de rotation autour de l'axe de rotation 213a correspondant.Again, the counterweight 25 is rotatably coupled with the lower jaw 211 by the first two arms 27 so as to impart a rotational movement about the axis of rotation 213 corresponding.

Ce mode de réalisation se distingue en ce que le moyen actionneur 35 consiste ici en un actionneur linéaire porté par la structure de verrouillage 11, et en particulier par la face extérieure de l'une de ses plaques latérales 201.This embodiment is distinguished in that the actuator means 35 here consists of a linear actuator carried by the locking structure 11, and in particular by the outer face of one of its side plates 201.

L'actionneur linéaire 35 consiste ici en un vérin pneumatique, associé à une alimentation pneumatique 36 et à un distributeur pneumatique (non représenté) situé au niveau du poste de manoeuvre 3.The linear actuator 35 here consists of a pneumatic cylinder associated with a pneumatic supply 36 and a pneumatic distributor (not shown) located at the operating station 3.

Plus précisément, cet actionneur linéaire 35 est un vérin pneumatique simple effet, coopérant avec le bras manivelle 29 accouplé en rotation avec le mors supérieur 211 b de la mâchoire 21.More precisely, this linear actuator 35 is a single-acting pneumatic cylinder, cooperating with the crank arm 29 coupled in rotation with the upper jaw 211b of the jaw 21.

Cet actionneur linéaire 35 est ici fixé sans degré de liberté et s'étend dans un plan parallèle, ou au moins approximativement parallèle, au plan passant par les axes de rotation 213 des mors 211 de la mâchoire 21.This linear actuator 35 is here fixed without degree of freedom and extends in a plane parallel or at least approximately parallel to the plane passing through the axes of rotation 213 of the jaws 211 of the jaw 21.

Cet actionneur linéaire 35 comporte un cylindre 351 et une tige mobile 352.This linear actuator 35 comprises a cylinder 351 and a movable rod 352.

La tige 352 est déployable vers le haut ; son extrémité libre 353 présente une forme générale de calotte sphérique (visible en particulier sur la figure 11).The rod 352 is deployable upwards; its free end 353 has a general shape of spherical cap (visible in particular on the figure 11 ).

Le bras manivelle 29, coopérant avec cet actionneur linéaire 35, comporte ici deux tronçons, s'étendant de part et d'autre de l'axe de rotation 213b du mors 211 b associé, à savoir :

  • un tronçon aval 295, coopérant avec le prolongement amont 273 d'un premier bras manivelle 27 par l'intermédiaire de la bielle d'accouplement 30, et
  • un tronçon amont 296, coopérant avec cet actionneur linéaire 35.
The crank arm 29, cooperating with this linear actuator 35, here comprises two sections extending from either side of the axis of rotation of the jaw 213 b 211 b associated, namely:
  • a downstream section 295, cooperating with the upstream extension 273 of a first crank arm 27 via the coupling rod 30, and
  • an upstream section 296 cooperating with this linear actuator 35.

Le tronçon amont 296 de ce bras manivelle 29 est muni d'une platine transversale 297 comportant une surface inférieure 298 destinée à servir d'appui pour l'extrémité libre 353 de la tige mobile 352 de l'actionneur 35, soit directement, soit, comme illustré sur les figures 10 et 11, par l'intermédiaire d'une platine rapportée 299.The upstream section 296 of this crank arm 29 is provided with a transverse plate 297 comprising a lower surface 298 intended to serve as a support for the free end 353 of the movable rod 352 of the actuator 35, either directly or as illustrated on Figures 10 and 11 via an insert plate 299.

La platine 299 est avantageusement réalisée dans un matériau à faible coefficient de frottement et résistant à l'érosion (par exemple en un matériau composite de type résine chargée de fibres synthétiques).The plate 299 is advantageously made of a material with a low coefficient of friction and resistant to erosion (for example made of a composite material of resin type loaded with synthetic fibers).

Le fonctionnement de ce chaumard 1, ainsi que la manoeuvre de ses mors 211 entre les positions active et inactive, sont similaires à ceux décrits ci-dessus en relation avec les figures 3 à 8.The operation of this fairlead 1, as well as the operation of its jaws 211 between the active and inactive positions, are similar to those described above in relation to the Figures 3 to 8 .

En particulier, pour le blocage en translation de la chaîne d'ancrage C, la tigre 352 de l'actionneur linéaire 35 est escamotée dans son cylindre 351 (figure 10).In particular, for locking in translation of the anchoring chain C , the taper 352 of the linear actuator 35 is retracted into its cylinder 351 ( figure 10 ).

Le contrepoids 25 est en position basse, assurant le maintien des mors 211 en position active du fait de la force exercée par le biais des bras manivelles 27 et 29.The counterweight 25 is in the low position, keeping the jaws 211 in the active position because of the force exerted through the crank arms 27 and 29.

Pour la manoeuvre de la chaîne d'ancrage C, en particulier dans un sens amont vers l'aval, les moyens de commande sont pilotés de sorte à provoquer l'extraction de la tige 352 par rapport à son cylindre 351 (figures 9 et 11).For the operation of the anchoring chain C , in particular in an upstream direction downstream, the control means are controlled so as to cause the extraction of the rod 352 with respect to its cylinder 351 ( figures 9 and 11 ).

Cette manoeuvre provoque alors le déplacement de l'extrémité 353 de la tige 352 appuyant sur la surface d'appui 298/299, qui génère par la même le pivotement du second bras manivelle 29 autour de son axe de rotation 213b dans le sens horaire.This operation then causes the movement of the end 353 of the rod 352 pressing on the bearing surface 298/299, which generates the same by pivoting the second crank arm 29 about its axis of rotation 213 b clockwise .

Ce mouvement est transmis au premier bras manivelle 27 par l'intermédiaire de la bielle 30, générant son pivotement dans un sens inverse (anti-horaire sur la figure 11).This movement is transmitted to the first crank arm 27 via the connecting rod 30, generating its pivoting in a reverse direction (counterclockwise on the figure 11 ).

Ce mouvement de rotation en sens inverse des deux bras manivelles 27 et 29 assure ainsi le pivotement des mors 211 qui leur sont associés, permettant la manoeuvre de la position active jusqu'à la position inactive.
Lors de cette manoeuvre, le contrepoids 25 est quant à lui manoeuvré depuis sa position basse jusqu'à sa position haute (figure 11).This rotational movement in the opposite direction of the two crank arms 27 and 29 thus ensures the pivoting of the jaws 211 which are associated with them, allowing the operation of the active position to the inactive position.
During this maneuver, the counterweight 25 is in turn maneuvered from its low position to its high position ( figure 11 ).

La chaîne d'ancrage C peut alors ainsi être manoeuvrée en translation au sein du chaumard 1, dans les deux sens.The anchor chain C can then be manipulated in translation in the fairlead 1, in both directions.

Pour le retour des mors 211 en position active, il suffit de supprimer la pression d'air dans l'actionneur 35.For the return of the jaws 211 in the active position, it suffices to suppress the air pressure in the actuator 35.

Le contrepoids 25 provoque alors la rétractation de la tige 352 dans son cylindre 351 et là encore le pivotement - des bras manivelles 27 et 29 en sens inverse, et - de leurs mors 211 associés en position active (figure 10).The counterweight 25 then causes the retraction of the rod 352 in its cylinder 351 and again the pivoting - crank arms 27 and 29 in the opposite direction, and - their jaws 211 associated in the active position ( figure 10 ).

Cette forme de réalisation avec actionneur linéaire 35 a l'intérêt d'être simple et fiable, avec l'emploi d'un seul actionneur à simple effet (donc un unique joint d'étanchéité).This embodiment with linear actuator 35 has the advantage of being simple and reliable, with the use of a single actuator single effect (so a single seal).

Dans ce mode de réalisation, le contrepoids 25 est en plus équipé d'une platine d'accrochage 251 sur laquelle peut être fixé un crochet de sorte à pouvoir exercer une traction vers le haut sur ce contrepoids 25 et l'amener ainsi depuis sa position basse jusqu'à sa position haute.
Cette platine 251 est utile en particulier comme moyen de sécurité redondant, pour permettre l'ouverture des mâchoires et libérer la chaîne C au sein du chaumard 1 en cas de panne du système pneumatique par exemple.In this embodiment, the counterweight 25 is also equipped with a catching plate 251 on which a hook can be fixed so as to be able to pull upwardly on the counterweight 25 and thus bring it from its position. low to its high position.
This plate 251 is particularly useful as a redundant security means, to allow the opening of the jaws and release the chain C within the fairlead 1 in case of failure of the pneumatic system for example.

Le chaumard 1 selon l'invention a ainsi l'intérêt d'offrir un maintien efficace des mors de la mâchoire en position active, tout en étant fiable en l'absence de moyens mécaniques sujets à l'usure pour ce maintien.The fairlead 1 according to the invention thus has the advantage of offering effective maintenance of the jaws of the jaw in the active position, while being reliable in the absence of mechanical means subject to wear for this maintenance.

Claims (10)

  1. A fairlead for guiding an anchor chain (C), intended to equip a system (2) for anchoring a floating platform (P) to the ground (S), wherein said fairlead (1) comprises:
    (i) a bending structure (10), for guiding a direction change of said associated anchor chain (C), and
    (ii) a locking structure (11) which comprises a grip jaw (21) consisted of two articulated jaws (211) and associated with means (22) for their operation in rotation in opposite directions, between:
    - an active position, for locking in translation said anchor chain (C) in an upstream to downstream direction, and
    - an inactive position, wherein said jaws (211) are spaced apart so as to allow the translation of the chain (C) within said fairlead (1), and
    said operating means (22) comprise:
    (a) an inert mass (25), referred to as "counterweight", which is movably coupled to said jaws (211) and which is operable in a height direction between a low position and a high position corresponding to said active position and said inactive position of said jaws (211), respectively, so as to operate and to tend to hold said jaws (211) in said active position, and
    (b) an actuator mean (26, 35), driven by control means, for operating said jaws (211) from said active position to said inactive position and for operating said counterweight (25) from said low position to said high position,
    characterized in that said jaws are articulated around rotation axes (213) parallel to each other.
  2. The fairlead according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking structure (11) comprises an upstream end (202) and a downstream end (203), near and distant from the bending structure (10), respectively, and in that the counterweight (25) extends at said downstream end (203) of the locking structure (11).
  3. The fairlead according to claim 2, characterized in that the counterweight (25) is carried by two support arms (27) adapted to pivot around a same rotation axis (213a) extending parallel to the rotation axis (213) of said jaws (211), and in that said counterweight (27), in the low and high positions, is offset downstream with respect to said rotation axis (213a).
  4. The fairlead according to any one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that the locking structure (11) comprises a downstream outlet duct (24), and in that the counterweight (25) is mobile above said outlet duct (24) and comprises a lower face whereof shape is suitable to fit, in the low position, said outlet duct (24).
  5. The fairlead according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the counterweight (25) and the actuator mean (26, 35) are assembled to either one of the two jaws (211), and in that said two jaws (211) are mechanically coupled through transmission means (30) for their synchronization in rotation and in opposite directions.
  6. The fairlead according to claim 5, characterized in that each jaw (211) is extended by at least one crank arm (27, 28, 29), in that the counterweight (25) and the actuator means (26, 35) are connected to at least one of said crank arms (27, 28, 29) of either one of said jaws (211), and in that at least two of said crank arms (27, 29) of the two jaws (211) are connected together by a connecting rod (30).
  7. The fairlead according to claim 6, in combination with claim 3, characterized in that the support arms (27) of the counterweight (25) consist in two crank arms (27) coupled on either side of one of the jaws (211a), and in that the rotation axis (213a) of said support arms (27) is merged with the rotation axis (213a) of said associated jaw (211a).
  8. The fairlead according to any one of claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the actuator means (26) consists in a pulling cable (261) whereof one end (262) is attached to the end of a crank arm (28) of one of the jaws (211 a) of the grip jaw (21).
  9. The fairlead according to any one of claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the actuator mean (35) comprises a linear actuator carried by the locking structure (11), wherein said linear actuator (35) comprises a mobile end (353) cooperating with at least one crank arm (29) of at least one of the jaws (211b) of the grip jaw (21).
  10. The fairlead according to claim 9, characterized in that the linear actuator (35) consists in a pneumatic cylinder, and in that the associated crank arm (29) is provided with a bearing surface (298, 299) against which said linear actuator (35) exerts a force for the operation of the jaws (211) from the active position to the inactive position.
EP12813924.3A 2011-12-14 2012-12-13 Fairlead for guiding an anchoring chain and intended to be provided to anchoring equipment on the floor of a floating platform Active EP2791000B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1161624A FR2984272B1 (en) 2011-12-14 2011-12-14 CHAUMARD FOR GUIDING AN ANCHORING CHAIN FOR EQUIPPING AN ANCHORING SYSTEM ON THE GROUND OF A FLOATING PLATFORM
PCT/FR2012/052926 WO2013088082A2 (en) 2011-12-14 2012-12-13 Fairlead for guiding an anchoring chain and intended to be provided to anchoring equipment on the floor of a floating platform

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2791000A2 EP2791000A2 (en) 2014-10-22
EP2791000B1 true EP2791000B1 (en) 2016-07-06

Family

ID=47557370

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP12813924.3A Active EP2791000B1 (en) 2011-12-14 2012-12-13 Fairlead for guiding an anchoring chain and intended to be provided to anchoring equipment on the floor of a floating platform

Country Status (10)

Country Link
US (1) US9567039B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2791000B1 (en)
KR (1) KR101989374B1 (en)
CN (1) CN104125914B (en)
CA (1) CA2858942C (en)
DK (1) DK2791000T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2591011T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2984272B1 (en)
PL (1) PL2791000T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2013088082A2 (en)

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CN104590489B (en) * 2014-12-26 2017-02-22 大连中远船务工程有限公司 Method for installing rigging guide wheel of floating production storage and offloading device ship above water
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2984272B1 (en) 2014-06-13
FR2984272A1 (en) 2013-06-21
KR20140102684A (en) 2014-08-22
US9567039B2 (en) 2017-02-14
DK2791000T3 (en) 2016-10-03
WO2013088082A3 (en) 2014-01-16
CN104125914B (en) 2016-08-17
EP2791000A2 (en) 2014-10-22
US20140339485A1 (en) 2014-11-20
KR101989374B1 (en) 2019-09-30
PL2791000T3 (en) 2016-12-30
CN104125914A (en) 2014-10-29
CA2858942A1 (en) 2013-06-20
CA2858942C (en) 2019-09-10
ES2591011T3 (en) 2016-11-24
WO2013088082A2 (en) 2013-06-20

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