Actively steerable gravity embedded anchor systems and methods for using the same
US9422034B2 · kind B2 · utility
7Cited by
11References
41Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 2015 |
| Grant date | Aug 23, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 26, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B2021/265
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for a self-directed (i.e., autonomous), steerable gravity-embedded anchor. This anchor free-falls through the water column, accelerates due to gravity and uses its kinetic energy to embed itself into the seafloor so as to function as an anchor for mooring of both floating vessels and other underwater structures. Unlike existing gravity-embedded plate anchors, this device can steer itself to its intended target location on the seafloor, enhancing placement accuracy and allowing release directly from an installation vessel on the water surface, thereby greatly simplifying installation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.