EP0522059B1 - Holding device and linking device comprising said holding device - Google Patents

Holding device and linking device comprising said holding device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0522059B1
EP0522059B1 EP91907577A EP91907577A EP0522059B1 EP 0522059 B1 EP0522059 B1 EP 0522059B1 EP 91907577 A EP91907577 A EP 91907577A EP 91907577 A EP91907577 A EP 91907577A EP 0522059 B1 EP0522059 B1 EP 0522059B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
arms
load
jaws
force
holding
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP91907577A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0522059A1 (en
Inventor
René Maloberti
Alain Coutarel
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Technip Energies France SAS
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Coflexip SA
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Publication of EP0522059A1 publication Critical patent/EP0522059A1/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C1/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles
    • B66C1/10—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
    • B66C1/22—Rigid members, e.g. L-shaped members, with parts engaging the under surface of the loads; Crane hooks
    • B66C1/34—Crane hooks

Definitions

  • the invention relates mainly to a load retaining device as well as to a connecting device comprising such a retaining device.
  • ROV unmanned underwater vehicle
  • the device according to the present invention makes it possible to release very large retained charges.
  • the force allowing the retention device to be kept in the closed position is very low compared to the apparent weight of the load retained.
  • a weak force controls the closing of the load retaining means. This weak force is amplified by lever arms, so as to obtain a safe suspension of the load.
  • two elements are used, each carrying a jaw and an arm. The two elements are articulated around an axis. Means are used limiting the spacing of the two arms to ensure the closing of the jaws and consequently the retention of the suspended load.
  • a device for temporarily retaining a load on a retaining line comprising two articulated elements forming a clamp, each element comprising a jaw and an arm, the device comprising means for hooking to a retaining line and releasable means for limiting the spacing between the arms of said elements and being able to take two positions, a first closed position ensuring maintenance of the retained load and a second open position allowing the load to be released, the arms constituting means for amplifying the holding force f which is exerted between the two arms near their end to keep the jaws closed when the load is being held.
  • the releasable means of spacing the arm are constituted by mechanical or electromagnetic locking means which are actuated to allow the opening of the device and the release of the load.
  • this actuation alone is not sufficient to open the device, the opening being obtainable only once the device placed on a support surface, as explained with reference to FIG. 4 of this document.
  • the device according to the invention makes it possible to avoid this drawback by the fact that it is attached to the retaining line by only one of said articulated elements and that the releasable limiting means connect said arms by exerting said holding force f necessary for keep the first closed position of the jaws, the arms having a configuration such that the means for limiting the spacing of the arms are arranged laterally at a distance greater than 0.3 meters relative to the axis of the retaining line.
  • the device according to the present invention uses low forces to ensure the closing of the jaws and the locking of the arms, as well as to ensure the unlocking of the arms and therefore the opening of the jaws. These weak forces nevertheless make it possible to ensure the retention of loads whose apparent weight in water is very large.
  • the two arms are connected by a cable of small diameter.
  • a cable can be cut with a standard tool of low power, such as a cable cutter. Cutting the cable frees the arm and consequently the jaws, the opening of which allows the load to be released.
  • the cable cutter can be worn, in the case of underwater use of the suspension device according to the present invention, by an unmanned underwater vehicle.
  • an unmanned underwater vehicle Such a remote-controlled underwater vehicle cannot safely approach a flexible tubular pipe suspended vertically.
  • the minimum distance to be observed between the unmanned underwater vehicle and the flexible tubular pipe is greater than 0.3 meters, advantageously greater than or equal to 0.5 meters.
  • the arms support the means for limiting the spacing, preventing the opening of the load holding means.
  • the term lateral distance is understood to mean the average distance of the spacing limitation means such as a cable ensuring the maintenance of the arms in the closed position, relative to the vertical axis passing through the point of attachment of the load. This average distance corresponds for example to the position of the middle of the cable between the arms in the case where it is not arranged vertically. It is at this distance that the cable cutter of the underwater remote-controlled vehicle will intervene.
  • the arms are advantageously arranged horizontally or with a slight slope.
  • the device according to the present invention comprises means ensuring the opening of the jaws as soon as the arms are released. These means are for example constituted by the profile of the clamps, the mass of the arms, a counterweight or a spring separating the jaws.
  • the suspended load retaining device according to the present invention is particularly well suited for the connection mechanics of two flexible tubular conduits. It allows in particular the use of a flexible tubular pipe of small diameter for quickly depositing on the bottom, for example the seabed, a flexible tubular pipe of large diameter. Such a deposit may become necessary, for example in the event of an emergency interruption of laying operations on the seabed of flexible tubular conduits, for example in the event of a storm.
  • an unmanned underwater vehicle is sent equipped with a cable cutter which cuts the small diameter cable connecting the arms. This opens the jaws of the suspension device according to the present invention.
  • a possible hydraulic connection between two flexible tubular pipes is broken by the weight of the flexible tubular pipe of large diameter or by the pulling up force of the flexible tubular pipe of small diameter.
  • the force f control ensuring that the closed position is maintained is between 1000 N and 50,000 N.
  • FIGS. 1 to 8 the same references have been used to designate the same elements.
  • the device advantageously made of steel, mainly comprises two parts, 1 and 2, articulated around an axis 35.
  • the part 1 comprises a jaw 11, a vertical connecting element 13 and a lever arm 12.
  • the part 2 comprises a jaw 21 and a lever arm 22.
  • the suspension device comprises means 30 preventing the arms 12 and 22 from moving apart.
  • the force required to hold the lever arms 12 and 22, and consequently the jaws 11 and 21, is low. It is for example provided by a small diameter steel cable.
  • small diameter is meant steel cables which can be cut by a conventional cable cutter carried by an unmanned underwater vehicle. Such cables necessarily have a diameter of less than 1.5 inches which is usable for a tensile load of 15 tonnes taking into account the safety factors.
  • the holding force is very high and adapted to the load to be supported and for example equal to 20, 100, 250 or 1000 tonnes.
  • the arrow 34 illustrates the force exerted by the load retained.
  • the present invention is not limited to the suspension of charges. It allows the transmission of pulling forces, in particular in the case of towing, anchoring or positive buoyancy forces.
  • the orientation of the force is not necessarily vertical, but may be oblique, for example in the case of a tensile force on an anchor or else in the case of forces exerted on a towed object.
  • the device according to the present invention comprises means allowing its suspension.
  • the upper end of the vertical part 13 has an opening through which penetrates a horizontal axis 14 ensuring the maintenance of a chappe 31.
  • On the chappe 31 is fixed a cable 32.
  • the chappe 31, fixed to the end of the clamp 13, is advantageously mounted, pivoting, around the axis 14.
  • the lever 22 pivots about the axis 35, along arrow 36, under the action of its weight as well as the force 34 exerted on the jaw 21.
  • the opening of the jaw 21 provides a space 39 which allows the passage of a fitting element 33 which supports the weight of the load.
  • the invention is not limited to the use of a small diameter cable for holding the lever arms 12 and 22.
  • a remotely controllable holding device 37 is illustrated, for example by a signal hydraulic, acoustic or electric.
  • the means for conveying the control signal have not been shown in the figure.
  • the remote control signals come from a floating support located on the surface.
  • the remote control signals are sent by an unmanned underwater vehicle.
  • the control device 37 comprises for example a jack allowing the spacing or the bringing together of the lever arms 12 and 22.
  • the control element 37 can be separated into two elements 15 and 25 integral with the lever arms 12 and 22 respectively.
  • the elements 15 and 25 comprise for example electromagnets. In the absence of current, the elements 15 and 25 separate along a dividing line 38.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a variant of the device according to the present invention with automatic opening of the jaws.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates the choice of the geometry of the suspension device according to the present invention to adapt it to the desired load. It is of course necessary to also adapt the section of the various elements according to the materials used, so as to ensure their resistance to the forces involved.
  • F1, and F'1 are the components of the force F according to the norms on the surfaces in contact with the jaws and the member 33.
  • the points of application of the holding force at the ends of the arms 12 and 22 bear the reference 16 and 26.
  • the points 16 and 26 are at the same distance L from the axis of the retaining line.
  • the force F is equal to the apparent weight in the water of the load.
  • the member 33 has two points of contact 33a and 33b with the internal profile of a jaw of the clamp.
  • the axis 35 of rotation is located at the same distance L from the axes supporting the vectors F1 and F'1
  • f.L is at least equal to F1.1.
  • the invention is not limited to an embodiment symmetrical with respect to the 'axis of the restraint line for which F'1, F1 have the same amplitude.
  • the torque exerted by the holding force must be at least equal to the opening torque exerted by F1 and F'1 to ensure the closing of the jaws.
  • this distance L makes it possible to increase the horizontal extension in relation to the flexible pipe, and consequently facilitates the work of the remote-controlled underwater vehicle.
  • FIG. 5 we can see an example of a connecting device between two flexible tubular conduits 41 and 43 using a suspension device according to the present invention.
  • the upper flexible tubular pipe 41 is terminated by a nozzle 40.
  • the flexible tubular pipe 43 is terminated by a nozzle 42.
  • the flexible tubular pipes 41 and 43 are hydraulically connected by a pipe 44.
  • the pipe 44 is not capable of supporting the weight of the flexible tubular pipe 43; suspension of driving flexible tubular 43 is provided by a suspension device according to the present invention.
  • the configuration of the jaws 11, 21 having stops is in no way limiting.
  • the closing of the jaws of these devices is limited by the diameter of the fitting accessory 33 gripped between the jaws 11 and 21.
  • the arm 22 is lowered according to arrow 36.
  • FIG. 8 a particularly efficient variant of the device according to the present invention can be seen.
  • the arms 12 and 22 are connected by mechanical connections 41 and 42.
  • the mechanical connections 41 and 42 include mechanical locking means.
  • the mechanical locking means comprise an omega-shaped part secured to the part 42 and penetrating the part 41.
  • elements of complementary shape belonging to the part 41 cover, in the closed position, the faces of the part 43. In this closed position, the part 43 as well as the said faces of the part 41 have an opening. This opening is crossed by a pin 44 ensuring the locking.
  • an actuator 45 (actuator in English terminology) allows the withdrawal of the pin 44, and consequently the opening of the arms 12 and 22.
  • the actuator 45 is for example electromagnetic or hydraulic.
  • the arrow 47 symbolizes the movement of the pin 44 under the action of the actuator 45. It is understood that an actuator capable only of removing the pin 44 does not depart from the scope of the present invention.
  • the device of FIG. 8 comprises a receiver 46, remote control signals 48 allowing the actuator 45 to be controlled.
  • the receiver 46 receives acoustic waves 48.
  • the acoustic waves 48 for opening the jaws and therefore for releasing the load are emitted from a floating support or from an unmanned underwater vehicle.
  • the present invention applies mainly to the rapid installation and abandonment of a flexible tubular pipe on the seabed.
  • a method implementing the device according to the present invention is described in a French patent application filed by the applicant simultaneously with the present application and entitled "Flexible tubular abandonment pipe, device and method using such a pipe”.
  • the present invention also applies to the dropping, for example from the bottom, of surface or sub-surface buoys.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Laying Of Electric Cables Or Lines Outside (AREA)
  • Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)
  • Earth Drilling (AREA)
  • Manipulator (AREA)
  • Supports For Pipes And Cables (AREA)

Abstract

A device for temporarily holding a load on a holding line comprises two articulated elements which form a clamp. Each element comprises a jaw and an arm. One of the two arms comprises means for suspension on a holding line. The device can adopt two positions, a first, closed position for holding the held load and a second, open position for releasing the load. The arm constitutes means for amplifying the holding force f exerted between the two arms in the vicinity of their ends to keep the jaws closed while the load is being held. The device comprises releasable means linking the arms for limiting the distance between said arms, exerting said holding force f required to maintain the jaws (11, 21) in the closed first position. The arms (12, 22) are so configured that the means (30, 37) for limiting the distance between the lever arms are arranged laterally at a distance greater than 0.3 metre from the axis of the holding line (32).

Description

L'invention se rapporte principalement à un dispositif de retenue de charge ainsi qu'à un dispositif de liaison comportant un tel dispositif de retenue.The invention relates mainly to a load retaining device as well as to a connecting device comprising such a retaining device.

Il est connu lors de travaux sous-marins de suspendre et de libérer des charges très importantes. Toutefois l'accrochage et la libération de la charge sont effectués sans tension mécanique induite par le poids de la charge.It is known during underwater work to suspend and release very large loads. However, the attachment and release of the load are carried out without mechanical tension induced by the weight of the load.

Il est connu d'utiliser des plongeurs pour couper le câble soutenant, par exemple un pipeline, un câble à poser ou un corps mort au dessus d'un fond marin. Cette technique présente l'inconvénient d'être très coûteuse, elle nécessite de disposer sur place d'un bateau de plongée. De plus, elle n'est pas utilisable en mer profonde.It is known to use plungers to cut the supporting cable, for example a pipeline, a laying cable or a dead body above a seabed. This technique has the disadvantage of being very expensive, it requires having a diving boat on site. In addition, it cannot be used in deep sea.

Il est connu d'autre part d'utiliser un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé (ROV en terminologie anglo-saxonne) pour couper des câbles ou effectuer la déconnexion des conduites tubulaires. Toutefois, les véhicules sous-marins téléguidés sont limités pour la puissance et les outils disponibles. Ainsi seuls des câbles de faible diamètre peuvent être coupés avec un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé.On the other hand, it is known to use an unmanned underwater vehicle (ROV in English terminology) to cut cables or disconnect tubular conduits. However, unmanned underwater vehicles are limited for the power and tools available. Thus only small diameter cables can be cut with an underwater vehicle.

Le dispositif selon la présente invention permet de libérer des charges retenues très importantes. Avantageusement, la force permettant le maintien du dispositif de retenue en position fermée est très faible par rapport au poids apparent de la charge retenue. Une force faible commande la fermeture des moyens de retenue de la charge. Cette force faible est amplifiée par des bras de leviers, de façon à obtenir une suspension sûre de la charge. Selon la présente invention on utilise deux éléments portant chacun une mâchoire et un bras. Les deux éléments sont articulés autour d'un axe. On utilise des moyens limitant l'écartement des deux bras pour assurer la fermeture des mâchoires et par suite la retenue de la charge suspendue.The device according to the present invention makes it possible to release very large retained charges. Advantageously, the force allowing the retention device to be kept in the closed position is very low compared to the apparent weight of the load retained. A weak force controls the closing of the load retaining means. This weak force is amplified by lever arms, so as to obtain a safe suspension of the load. According to the present invention, two elements are used, each carrying a jaw and an arm. The two elements are articulated around an axis. Means are used limiting the spacing of the two arms to ensure the closing of the jaws and consequently the retention of the suspended load.

On connait par US-A-4 717 189 dont les caractéristiques figurent dans le préambule de la revendication 1, un dispositif de retenue temporaire d'une charge à une ligne de retenue comportant deux éléments articulés formant une pince, chaque élément comportant une mâchoire et un bras, le dispositif comportant des moyens d'accrochage à une ligne de retenue et des moyens libérables de limitation de l'écartement entre les bras desdits éléments et pouvant prendre deux positions, une première position fermée assurant le maintien de la charge retenue et une seconde position ouverte permettant la libération de la charge, les bras constituant des moyens d'amplification de la force de maintien f qui est exercée entre les deux bras au voisinage de leur extrémité pour maintenir les mâchoires fermées lors du maintien de la charge.We know from US-A-4,717,189, the characteristics of which appear in the preamble of claim 1, a device for temporarily retaining a load on a retaining line comprising two articulated elements forming a clamp, each element comprising a jaw and an arm, the device comprising means for hooking to a retaining line and releasable means for limiting the spacing between the arms of said elements and being able to take two positions, a first closed position ensuring maintenance of the retained load and a second open position allowing the load to be released, the arms constituting means for amplifying the holding force f which is exerted between the two arms near their end to keep the jaws closed when the load is being held.

Dans ce dispositif les moyens libérables de l'écartement du bras sont constitués par des moyens de verrouillage mécaniques ou électromagnétiques qui sont actionnés pour permettre l'ouverture du dispositif et la librération de la charge. Toutefois, cet actionnement ne suffit pas à lui seul à ouvrir le dispositif, l'ouverture ne pouvant être obtenue qu'une fois le dispositif posé sur une surface d'appui, comme expliqué en référence la figure 4 de ce document.In this device, the releasable means of spacing the arm are constituted by mechanical or electromagnetic locking means which are actuated to allow the opening of the device and the release of the load. However, this actuation alone is not sufficient to open the device, the opening being obtainable only once the device placed on a support surface, as explained with reference to FIG. 4 of this document.

Le dispositif selon l'invention permet d'éviter cet inconvénient par le fait qu'il est accroché à la ligne de retenue par un seul desdits éléments articulés et que les moyens libérables de limitation relient lesdits bras en exerçant ladite force de maintien f nécessaire pour garder la première position fermée des mâchoires, les bras ayant une configuration telle que les moyens de limitation de l'écartement des bras sont disposés latéralement à une distance supérieure à 0,3 mètre par rapport à l'axe de la ligne de retenue.The device according to the invention makes it possible to avoid this drawback by the fact that it is attached to the retaining line by only one of said articulated elements and that the releasable limiting means connect said arms by exerting said holding force f necessary for keep the first closed position of the jaws, the arms having a configuration such that the means for limiting the spacing of the arms are arranged laterally at a distance greater than 0.3 meters relative to the axis of the retaining line.

Le dispositif selon la présente invention utilise des forces faibles pour assurer la fermeture des mâchoires et le verrouillage des bras, ainsi que pour assurer le déverrouillage des bras et donc l'ouverture des mâchoires. Ces forces faibles permettent néanmoins d'assurer la retenue de charges dont le poids apparent dans l'eau est très important.The device according to the present invention uses low forces to ensure the closing of the jaws and the locking of the arms, as well as to ensure the unlocking of the arms and therefore the opening of the jaws. These weak forces nevertheless make it possible to ensure the retention of loads whose apparent weight in water is very large.

Dans un exemple de réalisation du dispositif selon la présente invention les deux bras sont reliés par un câble de faible diamètre. Un tel câble peut être coupé avec un outil courant de faible puissance, comme par exemple un coupe câble. La coupure du câble libère le bras et par suite les mâchoires dont l'ouverture permet la libération de la charge. Le coupe câble peut être porté, dans le cas d'utilisation sous-marine du dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention, par un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé. Un tel véhicule sous-marin téléguidé ne peut pas sans danger s'approcher d'une conduite tubulaire flexible suspendue verticalement. La distance minimale à observer entre le véhicule sous-marin téléguidé et la conduite tubulaire flexible est supérieure à 0,3 mètre, avantageusement supérieure ou égale à 0,5 mètre. Les bras supportent les moyens de limitation de l'écartement, évitant l'ouverture des moyens de maintien de charge. Cette distance latérale est avantageusement obtenue par la longueur des bras des élements articulés. On entend par distance latérale la distance moyenne des moyens de limitation d'écartement tels qu'un câble assurant le maintien des bras dans la position fermée, par rapport à l'axe vertical passant par le point de fixation de la charge. Cette distance moyenne correspond par exemple à la position du milieu du câble entre les bras dans le cas où celui-ci n'est pas disposé verticalement. C'est à cette distance qu'interviendra le coupe-câble du véhicule télécommandé sous-marin. Les bras sont avantageusement disposés horizontalement ou avec une légère pente. Avantageusement, le dispositif selon la présente invention comporte des moyens assurant l'ouverture des mâchoires dès la libération des bras. Ces moyens sont par exemple constitués par le profil des pinces, la masse des bras, un contrepoids ou un ressort écartant les mâchoires.In an exemplary embodiment of the device according to the present invention, the two arms are connected by a cable of small diameter. Such a cable can be cut with a standard tool of low power, such as a cable cutter. Cutting the cable frees the arm and consequently the jaws, the opening of which allows the load to be released. The cable cutter can be worn, in the case of underwater use of the suspension device according to the present invention, by an unmanned underwater vehicle. Such a remote-controlled underwater vehicle cannot safely approach a flexible tubular pipe suspended vertically. The minimum distance to be observed between the unmanned underwater vehicle and the flexible tubular pipe is greater than 0.3 meters, advantageously greater than or equal to 0.5 meters. The arms support the means for limiting the spacing, preventing the opening of the load holding means. This lateral distance is advantageously obtained by the length of the arms of the articulated elements. The term lateral distance is understood to mean the average distance of the spacing limitation means such as a cable ensuring the maintenance of the arms in the closed position, relative to the vertical axis passing through the point of attachment of the load. This average distance corresponds for example to the position of the middle of the cable between the arms in the case where it is not arranged vertically. It is at this distance that the cable cutter of the underwater remote-controlled vehicle will intervene. The arms are advantageously arranged horizontally or with a slight slope. Advantageously, the device according to the present invention comprises means ensuring the opening of the jaws as soon as the arms are released. These means are for example constituted by the profile of the clamps, the mass of the arms, a counterweight or a spring separating the jaws.

Le dispositif de retenue de charge suspendue selon la présente invention est particulièrement bien adapté pour la liaison mécanique de deux conduites tubulaires flexibles. Il permet notamment l'utilisation d'une conduite tubulaire flexible de faible diamètre pour déposer rapidement sur le fond, par exemple le fond marin, une conduite tubulaire flexible de diamètre important. Un tel dépôt peut devenir nécessaire, par exemple en cas d'interruption d'urgence des opérations de pose sur le fond-marin de conduites tubulaires flexibles, par exemple dans le cas d'une tempête. Une fois la grosse conduite tubulaire flexible reposant sur le fond ou étant proche de celui-ci, on envoie un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé équipé d'un coupe câble qui coupe le câble de faible diamètre reliant les bras. On réalise ainsi l'ouverture des mâchoires du dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention. Une éventuelle liaison hydraulique entre deux conduites tubulaires flexibles est rompue par le poids de la conduite tubulaire flexible de grand diamètre ou par la force de traction de remontée de la conduite tubulaire flexible de petit diamètre.The suspended load retaining device according to the present invention is particularly well suited for the connection mechanics of two flexible tubular conduits. It allows in particular the use of a flexible tubular pipe of small diameter for quickly depositing on the bottom, for example the seabed, a flexible tubular pipe of large diameter. Such a deposit may become necessary, for example in the event of an emergency interruption of laying operations on the seabed of flexible tubular conduits, for example in the event of a storm. Once the large flexible tubular pipe resting on or near the bottom, an unmanned underwater vehicle is sent equipped with a cable cutter which cuts the small diameter cable connecting the arms. This opens the jaws of the suspension device according to the present invention. A possible hydraulic connection between two flexible tubular pipes is broken by the weight of the flexible tubular pipe of large diameter or by the pulling up force of the flexible tubular pipe of small diameter.

En particulier pour une force exercée par la masse suspendue comprise entre 100.000 N et 5.000.000 N, la force f commande assurant le maintien de la position fermée est comprise entre 1000 N et 50.000 N.In particular for a force exerted by the suspended mass between 100,000 N and 5,000,000 N, the force f control ensuring that the closed position is maintained is between 1000 N and 50,000 N.

L'invention sera mieux comprise au noyer de la description ci-après et des figures annexées données comme des exemples non limitatifs parmi lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue de profil d'un exemple de réalisation du dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention, en position fermée;
  • la figure 2 est une vue de profil d'un dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention, en position ouverte;
  • la figure 3 est une vue de profil d'un exemple de réalisation du dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention comportant des moyens de commande actifs;
  • la figure 4 est un schéma explicatif du fonctionnement du dispositif selon la présente invention;
  • la figure 5 est une vue de profil d'un dispositif de liaison selon la présente invention ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue de côté d'une variante de réalisation du dispositif selon la présente invention dans laquelle le bras supérieur se soulève lors de la libération de la charge ;
  • la figure 7 est une vue de côté d'un exemple de réalisation du dispositif selon la présente invention ne comportant pas de butée ;
  • la figure 8 est une vue schématique d'un exemple de réalisation du dispositif selon la présente invention comportant des moyens mécaniques de verrouillage assurant la position fermée des bras.
The invention will be better understood from the description below and the appended figures given as nonlimiting examples among which:
  • Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the suspension device according to the present invention, in the closed position;
  • Figure 2 is a side view of a suspension device according to the present invention, in the open position;
  • Figure 3 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the suspension device according to the present invention comprising active control means;
  • Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the device according to the present invention;
  • Figure 5 is a side view of a connecting device according to the present invention;
  • Figure 6 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the device according to the present invention in which the upper arm is raised when the load is released;
  • Figure 7 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the device according to the present invention not comprising a stop;
  • Figure 8 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention comprising mechanical locking means ensuring the closed position of the arms.

Sur les figures 1 à 8 on a utilisé les mêmes références pour désigner les mêmes éléments.In FIGS. 1 to 8, the same references have been used to designate the same elements.

Sur la figure 1, on peut voir un exemple de réalisation du dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention. Le dispositif, avantageusement réalisé en acier, comporte principalement deux pièces, 1 et 2, articulées autour d'un axe 35. La pièce 1 comporte une mâchoire 11, un élément de liaison vertical 13 et un bras de levier 12. La pièce 2 comporte une mâchoire 21 et un bras de levier 22.In Figure 1, one can see an embodiment of the suspension device according to the present invention. The device, advantageously made of steel, mainly comprises two parts, 1 and 2, articulated around an axis 35. The part 1 comprises a jaw 11, a vertical connecting element 13 and a lever arm 12. The part 2 comprises a jaw 21 and a lever arm 22.

Dans la position fermée représentée sur la figure 1, les bras de levier 12 et 22 sont sensiblement parallèles. La longueur des bras de levier 12 et 22 et le profil de mâchoire vont déterminer le rapport entre la force retenant la charge et la force assurant le maintien dans une position fermée des mâchoires. Le dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention comporte des moyens 30 empêchant les bras 12 et 22 de s'écarter. La force nécessaire pour le maintien des bras de levier 12 et 22, et par suite des mâchoires 11 et 21, est faible. Elle est par exemple assurée par un câble d'acier de faible diamètre. On entend par faible diamètre, des câbles d'acier pouvant être coupés par un coupe câble classique porté par un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé. De tels câbles ont nécessairement un diamètre inférieur à 1,5 pouces qui est utilisable pour une charge de traction de 15 tonnes en tenant compte des coefficients de sécurité. Il est bien entendu que l'utilisation de câbles su de fil de fer d'un diamètre nettement inférieur, par exemple 1 mm, ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention. Par contre, au niveau des pinces 11 et 21, qui enserrent un élément d'accastillage 33, par exemple un anneau ou une manille, assurant l'accrochage d'une chage, (non représenté), la force de maintien est très importante et adaptée à la charge à supporter et par exemple égale à 20, 100, 250 ou 1000 tonnes. La flèche 34 illustre la force exercée par la charge retenue.In the closed position shown in Figure 1, the lever arms 12 and 22 are substantially parallel. The length of the lever arms 12 and 22 and the jaw profile will determine the relationship between the force retaining the load and the force ensuring the maintenance in a closed position of the jaws. The suspension device according to the present invention comprises means 30 preventing the arms 12 and 22 from moving apart. The force required to hold the lever arms 12 and 22, and consequently the jaws 11 and 21, is low. It is for example provided by a small diameter steel cable. By small diameter is meant steel cables which can be cut by a conventional cable cutter carried by an unmanned underwater vehicle. Such cables necessarily have a diameter of less than 1.5 inches which is usable for a tensile load of 15 tonnes taking into account the safety factors. It is understood that the use of cables of iron wire with a much smaller diameter, for example 1 mm, does not depart from the scope of the present invention. On the other hand, at the level of the clamps 11 and 21, which enclose a fitting element 33, for example a ring or a shackle, ensuring the attachment of a chage, (not shown), the holding force is very high and adapted to the load to be supported and for example equal to 20, 100, 250 or 1000 tonnes. The arrow 34 illustrates the force exerted by the load retained.

La présente invention n'est pas limitée à la suspension de charges. Elle permet la transmission de forces de tirage, notamment dans le cas de remorquage, d'ancrage ou de forces de flottabilité positive. L'orientation de la force n'est pas nécessairement verticale, mais peut être oblique, par exemple dans le cas d'une force de traction sur un ancrage ou bien dans le cas de forces exercées sur un objet remorqué.The present invention is not limited to the suspension of charges. It allows the transmission of pulling forces, in particular in the case of towing, anchoring or positive buoyancy forces. The orientation of the force is not necessarily vertical, but may be oblique, for example in the case of a tensile force on an anchor or else in the case of forces exerted on a towed object.

Le dispositif selon la présente invention comporte des moyens permettant sa suspension. Dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 1, l'extrémité supérieure de la pièce verticale 13 comporte une ouverture par laquelle pénètre un axe horizontal 14 assurant le maintien d'une chappe 31. Sur la chappe 31 est fixé un câble 32. La chappe 31, fixée à l'extrémité de la pince 13, est avantageusement montée, pivotante, autour de l'axe 14.The device according to the present invention comprises means allowing its suspension. In the example illustrated in Figure 1, the upper end of the vertical part 13 has an opening through which penetrates a horizontal axis 14 ensuring the maintenance of a chappe 31. On the chappe 31 is fixed a cable 32. The chappe 31, fixed to the end of the clamp 13, is advantageously mounted, pivoting, around the axis 14.

En cas de coupure du câble 30, comme illustré sur la figure 2, le levier 22 pivote autour de l'axe 35, selon la flèche 36, sous l'action de son poids ainsi que de la force 34 exercée sur la mâchoire 21. L'ouverture de la mâchoire 21 ménage un espace 39 qui permet le passage d'un élément d'accastillage 33 qui supporte le poids de la charge.If the cable 30 is cut, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the lever 22 pivots about the axis 35, along arrow 36, under the action of its weight as well as the force 34 exerted on the jaw 21. The opening of the jaw 21 provides a space 39 which allows the passage of a fitting element 33 which supports the weight of the load.

L'invention n'est pas limitée à l'utilisation d'un câble de faible diamètre pour le maintien des bras de levier 12 et 22. Sur la figure 3, on a illustré un dispositif de maintien télécommandable 37, par exemple par un signal hydraulique, acoustique ou électrique. Les moyens pour véhiculer le signal de commande n'ont pas été représentés sur la figure. Dans la première variante selon la présente invention, les signaux de télécommande proviennent d'un support flottant se trouvant à la surface. Dans une seconde variante de réalisation, les signaux de télécommande sont envoyés par un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé. Le dispositif de commande 37 comporte par exemple un vérin permettant l'écartement ou le rapprochement des bras de levier 12 et 22. Dans une variante de réalisation, l'élément de commande 37 est séparable en deux éléments 15 et 25 solidaires des bras de levier respectivement 12 et 22. Les éléments 15 et 25 comportent par exemple des électro-aimants. En l'absence de courant, les éléments 15 et 25 se séparent selon une ligne de séparation 38.The invention is not limited to the use of a small diameter cable for holding the lever arms 12 and 22. In FIG. 3, a remotely controllable holding device 37 is illustrated, for example by a signal hydraulic, acoustic or electric. The means for conveying the control signal have not been shown in the figure. In the first variant according to the present invention, the remote control signals come from a floating support located on the surface. In a second alternative embodiment, the remote control signals are sent by an unmanned underwater vehicle. The control device 37 comprises for example a jack allowing the spacing or the bringing together of the lever arms 12 and 22. In an alternative embodiment, the control element 37 can be separated into two elements 15 and 25 integral with the lever arms 12 and 22 respectively. The elements 15 and 25 comprise for example electromagnets. In the absence of current, the elements 15 and 25 separate along a dividing line 38.

La figure 4 illustre une variante du dispositif selon la présente invention à ouverture automatique des mâchoires. La figure 4 illustre le choix de la géométrie du dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention pour l'adapter à la charge désirée. Il est bien entendu nécessaire d'adapter aussi la section des différents éléments en fonction des matériaux utilisés, de façon à assurer leur résistance aux efforts impliqués.FIG. 4 illustrates a variant of the device according to the present invention with automatic opening of the jaws. FIG. 4 illustrates the choice of the geometry of the suspension device according to the present invention to adapt it to the desired load. It is of course necessary to also adapt the section of the various elements according to the materials used, so as to ensure their resistance to the forces involved.

Sur la figure 4 on a noté L la longueur des bras de levier 12 et 22 par rapport à l'axe 35, perpendiculairement à la force exercée par la charge, l la distance entre l'axe 35 et le point d'application de la force 34 sur les mâchoires 11 et 21, F la force verticale exercée par la charge, décomposée en une somme de force F₁, F'₁, qui s'applique aux points 33a et 33b, perpendiculairement à la surface interne des mâchoires 21 et 11, et f la force nécessaire pour empêcher les bras de levier 12 et 22 de s'écarter.In FIG. 4, the length of the lever arms 12 and 22 relative to the axis 35 has been noted L, perpendicular to the force exerted by the load, l the distance between the axis 35 and the point of application of the force 34 on the jaws 11 and 21, F the vertical force exerted by the load, broken down into a sum of force F₁, F'₁, which applies to points 33a and 33b, perpendicular to the internal surface of the jaws 21 and 11 , and f the force necessary to prevent the lever arms 12 and 22 from moving apart.

F₁, et F'₁ sont les composantes de la force F selon les normales aux surfaces en contact des mors et de l'organe 33. Les points d'application de la force de maintien aux extrémités des bras 12 et 22 portent la référence 16 et 26. Dans le cas de la figure 4, les points 16 et 26 sont à une même distance L de l'axe de la ligne de retenue. Dans le cas illustré d'une charge suspendue, la force F est égale au poids apparent dans l'eau de la charge.F₁, and F'₁ are the components of the force F according to the norms on the surfaces in contact with the jaws and the member 33. The points of application of the holding force at the ends of the arms 12 and 22 bear the reference 16 and 26. In the case of FIG. 4, the points 16 and 26 are at the same distance L from the axis of the retaining line. In the illustrated case of a suspended load, the force F is equal to the apparent weight in the water of the load.

L'organe 33 a deux points de contact 33a et 33b avec le profil intérieur d'un mors de la pince. Dans le cas de réalisations symétriques par rapport aux vecteurs F₁ et F'₁, l'axe 35 de rotation se trouve à une même distance L des axes supportant les vecteurs F₁ et F'₁The member 33 has two points of contact 33a and 33b with the internal profile of a jaw of the clamp. In the case of symmetrical embodiments with respect to the vectors F₁ and F'₁, the axis 35 of rotation is located at the same distance L from the axes supporting the vectors F₁ and F'₁

Pour assurer la fermeture des mâchoires 11 et 21, il est nécessaire que f.L soit au moins égal à F₁.1.To ensure the closure of the jaws 11 and 21, it is necessary that f.L is at least equal to F₁.1.

Pour obtenir des forces plus importantes on pourra notamment augmenter la longueur des bras de levier L ou modifier le profil des mâchoires pour diminuer la distance L. Il est bien entendu que l'invention n'est pas limitée à une réalisation symétrique par rapport à l'axe de la ligne de retenue pour laquelle F'₁, F₁ ont la même amplitude. Le couple exercé par la force de maintien doit être au moins égal au couple d'ouverture exercé par F₁ et F'₁ pour assurer la fermeture des mâchoires.To obtain greater forces, it is possible in particular to increase the length of the lever arms L or modify the profile of the jaws to reduce the distance L. It is understood that the invention is not limited to an embodiment symmetrical with respect to the 'axis of the restraint line for which F'₁, F₁ have the same amplitude. The torque exerted by the holding force must be at least equal to the opening torque exerted by F₁ and F'₁ to ensure the closing of the jaws.

Toutefois cette distance L permet d'augmenter l'extension horizontale par un rapport à la conduite flexible, et par suite facilite le travail du véhicule sous-marin télécommandé.However, this distance L makes it possible to increase the horizontal extension in relation to the flexible pipe, and consequently facilitates the work of the remote-controlled underwater vehicle.

Sur la figure 5, on peut voir un exemple de dispositif de liaison entre deux conduites tubulaires flexibles 41 et 43 utilisant un dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention. Dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 5, la conduite tubulaire flexible supérieure 41 est terminée par un embout 40. La conduite tubulaire flexible 43 est terminée par un embout 42. Avantageusement, les conduites tubulaires flexibles 41 et 43 sont connectées hydrauliquement par une conduite 44. Dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 5, la conduite 44 n'est pas capable de supporter le poids de la conduite tubulaire flexible 43 ; la suspension de la conduite tubulaire flexible 43 est assurée par un dispositif de suspension selon la présente invention.In Figure 5, we can see an example of a connecting device between two flexible tubular conduits 41 and 43 using a suspension device according to the present invention. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the upper flexible tubular pipe 41 is terminated by a nozzle 40. The flexible tubular pipe 43 is terminated by a nozzle 42. Advantageously, the flexible tubular pipes 41 and 43 are hydraulically connected by a pipe 44. In the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the pipe 44 is not capable of supporting the weight of the flexible tubular pipe 43; suspension of driving flexible tubular 43 is provided by a suspension device according to the present invention.

Il est bien entendu que la configuration des mâchoires 11,21 comportant des butées n'est aucunement limitative. On peut par exemple utiliser des mâchoires dont les mors se recouvrent partiellement, en venant glisser l'un sur l'autre comme illustré sur la figure 7. La fermeture des mâchoires de ces dispositifs est limitée par le diamètre de l'accessoire d'accastillage 33 saisi entre les mâchoires 11 et 21. En cas de rupture du câble 30 reliant les bras 12 et 22, le bras 22 s'abaisse selon la flèche 36.It is understood that the configuration of the jaws 11, 21 having stops is in no way limiting. One can for example use jaws whose jaws partially overlap, by sliding one over the other as illustrated in FIG. 7. The closing of the jaws of these devices is limited by the diameter of the fitting accessory 33 gripped between the jaws 11 and 21. In the event of a break in the cable 30 connecting the arms 12 and 22, the arm 22 is lowered according to arrow 36.

De même, un dispositif comportant des butées ne se trouvant pas sur les mâchoires ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention.Similarly, a device comprising stops not located on the jaws does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

De même il est parfaitement possible d'inverser le haut et le bas des figures de façon à ce que, lors de l'ouverture des mâchoires, la pièce 1 tombe au fond de la mer.Similarly, it is perfectly possible to reverse the top and bottom of the figures so that, when the jaws open, the part 1 falls to the bottom of the sea.

Il est bien entendu que l'on ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention si l'élément d'accastillage 33 repose sur une surface horizontale du profil d'au moins une des mâchoires. Toutefois, un profil concave des mâchoires, tel que représenté par exemple sur la figure 5, correspond à une réalisation avantageuse.It is understood that it is not beyond the scope of the present invention if the fitting element 33 rests on a horizontal surface of the profile of at least one of the jaws. However, a concave profile of the jaws, as shown for example in Figure 5, corresponds to an advantageous embodiment.

Sur la figure 8, on peut voir une variante particulièrement performante du dispositif selon la présente invention. Les bras 12 et 22 sont reliés par des liaisons mécaniques 41 et 42. Les liaisons mécaniques 41 et 42 comportent des moyens de verrouillage mécanique. Dans l'exemple illustré, les moyens de verrouillage mécanique comportent une pièce en forme d'omega solidarisée avec la pièce 42 et pénétrant la pièce 41. D'autre part, à l'extérieur de la pièce 43, des éléments de forme complémentaire appartenant à la pièce 41 recouvrent, dans la position fermée, les faces de la pièce 43. Dans cette position fermée, la pièce 43 ainsi que lesdites faces de la pièce 41 comportent une ouverture. Cette ouverture est traversée par une goupille 44 assurant le verrouillage.In FIG. 8, a particularly efficient variant of the device according to the present invention can be seen. The arms 12 and 22 are connected by mechanical connections 41 and 42. The mechanical connections 41 and 42 include mechanical locking means. In the example illustrated, the mechanical locking means comprise an omega-shaped part secured to the part 42 and penetrating the part 41. On the other hand, outside of the part 43, elements of complementary shape belonging to the part 41 cover, in the closed position, the faces of the part 43. In this closed position, the part 43 as well as the said faces of the part 41 have an opening. This opening is crossed by a pin 44 ensuring the locking.

Avantageusement, un actionneur 45 (actuatuor en terminologie anglo-saxone) permet le retrait de la goupille 44, et par suite l'ouverture des bras 12 et 22.Advantageously, an actuator 45 (actuator in English terminology) allows the withdrawal of the pin 44, and consequently the opening of the arms 12 and 22.

L'actuatuor 45 est par exemple électromagnétique ou hydraulique. La flèche 47 symbolise le mouvement de la goupille 44 sous l'action de l'actionneur 45. Il est bien entendu qu'un actionneur susceptible uniquement de retirer la goupille 44 ne sort pas du cadre de la présente invention.The actuator 45 is for example electromagnetic or hydraulic. The arrow 47 symbolizes the movement of the pin 44 under the action of the actuator 45. It is understood that an actuator capable only of removing the pin 44 does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

Avantageusement, le dispositif de la figure 8 comporte un récepteur 46, des signaux de télécommande 48 permettant la commande de l'actionneur 45.Advantageously, the device of FIG. 8 comprises a receiver 46, remote control signals 48 allowing the actuator 45 to be controlled.

Avantageusement, le récepteur 46 reçoit des ondes acoustiques 48. Les ondes acoustiques 48 d'ouverture des mâchoires et donc de largage de la charge sont émises à partir d'un support flottant ou d'un véhicule sous-marin téléguidé.Advantageously, the receiver 46 receives acoustic waves 48. The acoustic waves 48 for opening the jaws and therefore for releasing the load are emitted from a floating support or from an unmanned underwater vehicle.

La présente invention s'applique principalement à la pose rapide et à l'abandon d'une conduite tubulaire flexible sur le fond marin. Un procédé mettant en oeuvre le dispositif selon la présente invention est décrit dans une demande de brevet français déposée par la demanderesse simultanément à la présente demande et intitulée "Conduite tubulaire flexible d'abandon, dispositif et procédé utilisant une telle conduite". La présente invention s'applique également au largage, par exemple à partir du fond, de bouées de surface ou de sub-surface.The present invention applies mainly to the rapid installation and abandonment of a flexible tubular pipe on the seabed. A method implementing the device according to the present invention is described in a French patent application filed by the applicant simultaneously with the present application and entitled "Flexible tubular abandonment pipe, device and method using such a pipe". The present invention also applies to the dropping, for example from the bottom, of surface or sub-surface buoys.

Claims (14)

  1. Device for temporarily holding a load on a holding line comprising two articulated elements (1, 2) forming a pincer, each element comprising a jaw (11, 21) and an arm (12, 22), the device comprising means (14, 31) for fastening to a holding line (32) and releasable means (30, 37) for limiting the spacing between the arms (12, 22) of said elements, and being able to assume two positions, a first closed position for gripping the held load and a second open position enabling the load to the released, the arms constituting means for intensifying the gripping force f which is exerted between the two arms near their end in order to keep the jaws closed when the load is being gripped, characterized in that it is fastened to the holding line by only one of the said articulated elements and in that the releasable means (30, 37) for limiting the spacing connect the said arms by exerting the said gripping force f necessary for maintaining the first closed position of the jaws (11, 21), the arms (12, 22) having a configuration such that the means (30, 37) for limiting the spacing of the arms are placed laterally at a distance greater than 0.3 metres relative to the axis of the holding line (32).
  2. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the means (30, 37) for limiting the spacing of the arms are placed laterally at a distance greater than or equal to 0.5 metres.
  3. Device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each of the articulated elements comprises a bearing surface which comes to bear against the other, so as to determine the closed position of the device.
  4. Device according to Claim 3, characterized in that the bearing surfaces are placed at the ends of the jaws (11, 21).
  5. Device according to Claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that the second closed position of the device is determined by the tightening of the jaws (11, 21) around a superstructure element (33) by means of which the load is held.
  6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a configuration such that in the absence of the force f exerted by the means (30, 37) for limiting the separation of the arms, the jaws (11, 21) separating spontaneously from each other under the action of the force F exerted by the held load, ensuring its release.
  7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means (30) for limiting the spacing of the arms comprise a cable of small diametre.
  8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means for mechanically locking the lever arms in the closed position, the unlocking of which, by a diver or by a remote-controlled underwater vehicle, enables the lever arms (12, 22) to be released.
  9. Device according to Claim 8, characterized in that it comprises electromagnetic means for carrying out the unlocking of the said mechanical locking means.
  10. Device according to Claim 8 or 9, characterized in that it comprises means for receiving the remote control signals for releasing the load, acting on a mechanical locking means.
  11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the force exerted by the held load is between 10,000 N and 5,000,000 N and the force acting against the separation of the arms (12, 22) is between 1,000 N and 50,000 N.
  12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises fastening means (14, 31) for joining it to a flexible tubular conduit.
  13. Device for connection between two flexible tubular conduits, characterized in that it comprises at least one holding device according to Claim 12, placed between the two flexible tubular conduits (41, 43),
  14. Device for connection between two flexible tubular conduits according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises an hydraulic connection (44) connecting the two flexible tubular conduits (41, 43).
EP91907577A 1990-03-30 1991-04-02 Holding device and linking device comprising said holding device Expired - Lifetime EP0522059B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9004101 1990-03-30
FR9004101A FR2660297B1 (en) 1990-03-30 1990-03-30 SUSPENSION DEVICE AND CONNECTION DEVICE COMPRISING SUCH A SUSPENSION DEVICE.
PCT/FR1991/000259 WO1991015421A1 (en) 1990-03-30 1991-04-02 Holding device and linking device comprising said holding device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0522059A1 EP0522059A1 (en) 1993-01-13
EP0522059B1 true EP0522059B1 (en) 1994-11-02

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EP91907577A Expired - Lifetime EP0522059B1 (en) 1990-03-30 1991-04-02 Holding device and linking device comprising said holding device

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US (1) US5356188A (en)
EP (1) EP0522059B1 (en)
AU (1) AU649037B2 (en)
BR (1) BR9106297A (en)
CA (1) CA2079460A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69104982D1 (en)
DK (1) DK0522059T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2064100T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2660297B1 (en)
NO (1) NO923759L (en)
WO (1) WO1991015421A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0536250B1 (en) * 1990-06-28 2000-09-06 Glaxo Wellcome Inc. Aerosol drug formulations
SE503866C2 (en) * 1994-10-14 1996-09-23 Atlas Copco Tools Ab Suspension device for universal movable support of a pneumatic power tool
US7874096B2 (en) * 2006-11-13 2011-01-25 Patrick Michael Callaway Fish releasing device
CN115744643B (en) * 2022-09-27 2023-05-30 山东德鲁克起重机集团有限公司 Automatic double-beam bridge type mechanical arm crane and application method thereof

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE122822C (en) *
US1435634A (en) * 1920-12-18 1922-11-14 Frederick A Foxhall Grip
US1524699A (en) * 1924-08-13 1925-02-03 Faber Franz Safety clamp
US2024222A (en) * 1933-09-11 1935-12-17 Harvey S Hinchman Toggle release hook
US2300372A (en) * 1942-03-07 1942-10-27 Carnegie Illinois Steel Corp Grasping hook or device for cranes and the like
US3104125A (en) * 1960-03-28 1963-09-17 Garlinghouse Brothers Gas actuated power device
US3107938A (en) * 1961-12-04 1963-10-22 George B Schick Pressure sensitive release mechanism
US3640555A (en) * 1969-10-24 1972-02-08 Bullard Co Connector for handtool suspension system
FR2192971B1 (en) * 1972-07-19 1976-02-13 Nickel Le
US3904235A (en) * 1974-01-08 1975-09-09 George V Fehr eighted clamp for handling buoyant materials under water
US3873145A (en) * 1974-02-21 1975-03-25 Us Navy Cable grapple
US4717189A (en) * 1986-03-31 1988-01-05 Gabriel Edwin Z Tong-like, cable-scooping, hoist-cable coupling device for suspended loads
FR2607606B1 (en) * 1986-11-28 1991-11-29 Thomson Csf AUTOMATIC RELEASE SHACKLE

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69104982D1 (en) 1994-12-08
ES2064100T3 (en) 1995-01-16
FR2660297B1 (en) 1992-06-12
US5356188A (en) 1994-10-18
WO1991015421A1 (en) 1991-10-17
NO923759D0 (en) 1992-09-28
NO923759L (en) 1992-11-30
AU7666691A (en) 1991-10-30
DK0522059T3 (en) 1995-04-18
BR9106297A (en) 1993-04-13
CA2079460A1 (en) 1991-10-01
FR2660297A1 (en) 1991-10-04
EP0522059A1 (en) 1993-01-13
AU649037B2 (en) 1994-05-12

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