GB2520565A

GB2520565A - Cable Connector

Info

Publication number: GB2520565A
Application number: GB1320840.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Hywel Watkin Williams
Original assignee: PROFOUND TECHNOLOGY Ltd
Current assignee: PROFOUND TECHNOLOGY Ltd
Priority date: 2013-11-26
Filing date: 2013-11-26
Publication date: 2015-05-27
Anticipated expiration: 2033-11-26
Also published as: GB2520565B; GB201320840D0

Abstract

An angularly adjustable underwater connector 10 comprises a first connector component 14, defining an axis, and an assembly securing the first connector component 14 to an object 1 in a manner allowing rotation of the first connector component 14 about its axis and a second connector component 18 which couples between the first connector component 14 and a cable 12. The cable 12 extends in a direction transverse to the said axis and there is an orienting arrangement in the first and second connector components 14, 18 which establishes their relative rotational orientation about the said axis when they are coupled to one another. The first connector component 14 may be rotated about its axis prior to being secured by clamping means 30 to the object 1. The clamping means 30 may include an assembly with split members which can be fitted around the connector 14. Male and female mating members and seal means may be involved. The mating members may take the form of a cylindrical recess or socket and a corresponding shaped projection. Flat wall portions 26 may be used to restrict rotational movement between mating members.

Description

CABLE CONNECTOR

The present invention relates to an underwater connector for connecting a cable to an object which is deployable underwater. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to an underwater connector comprising a first connector component which can be secured to an object and which defines a component axis, a second connector component which can be coupled to the first connector component, and a cable guide which extends from the second connector component, the guide defining an axis which is disposed transverse to the axis of the first component when the first and second components are coupled together.

There is a requirement in various industries for underwater cables and associated connectors. The cables provide power, control and/or communication thnctions for objects which are deployable underwater. The cables may be single or multi-core, but are usually multi-core, comprising a plurality of electrical, optical and/or fluid lines or cores, to provide the necessary power, control and/or communication functions.

The cables and connectors have a use generally in any industry where objects are deployed underwater. Particular examples include the oil and gas exploration and production industry, where underwater cables and connectors are employed in subsea flow control installations and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and in diver support equipment including pressure vessels and decompression chambers. Other exemplary industries include the military, oceanographic, other (alternative) energy extraction, deep sea mineral recovery, salvage, scientific investigation and instrumentation, and surveying industries.

Underwater connectors and cables have conventionally taken a variety of different configurations, to provide the necessary thnctions. Conventional connectors typically comprise first and second connector components which fit together in a single, specified orientation, the orientation being dictated by the patterns of cores inside the connectors, and/or by the way in which the cable is fixed to the connector. A mechanical indexing system, or the geometry of the multiple cores, ensures the proper orientation of the components.

The connectors are attached to the ends of underwater cables, usually by moulding, and can either be in line with, or at an angle to (usually a right angle), the cable axis. Where one of the connector components mates to a fixed connector component on the object, the orientation of the mating connector component is also fixed, which means that there is no way of adjusting the angle at which the cable leaves the connector (in the angled versions).

This can be problematic, as the cable may interfere with other pieces of equipment, and indeed with other underwater connectors/cables. This can also lead to unplanned stresses in the cable, if it is found that the angle which the cable leaves the connector is not

suitable.

One such conventional connector is shown in the accompanying drawing Figs A, B and C. Figs A and B are exploded perspective views of the prior connector, taken from different angles, whilst Fig C is an end view of the assembled connector. Connectors of this type are generally known in the industry as "panel mounted connectors", and are used to connect an underwater cable to any bulkhead or surface that has a pressure differential across it, or in which the bulkhead surfaces are exposed to different fluids at similar pressures. Examples of the latter include bulkheads which are exposed to water on one side and an inert fluid (such as oil), at a similar pressure, on the other side. In the illustrated example, the connector is employed to connect a cable to a subsea pressure vessel, a water and pressure-proof bulkhead 1 of the pressure vessel being shown in Fig A. The connector effectively makes a penetration through the water and pressure proof bulkhead 1, and so serves for connecting the cable to the bulkhead in a pressure-tight manner.

The connector comprises a first connector component in the form of a connector shell 2, which includes an integral flange, and a second connector component which defines a cable end 5. The connector shell 2 is located within an aperture 3 extending through the bulkhead 1, and is rigidly attached to the bulkhead by fasteners 4, which pass through the flange on the shell. The connector shell 2 is therefore secured against rotation relative to the bulkhead 1. A pressure and water tight seal 6 is fitted at the back of the connector shell 2, to seal the connector shell to the bulkhead 1.

In the illustrated example, the connector comprises an indexing system. The indexing system comprises a mechanical key in the form of a flat 7 provided within the connector shell 2, which mates with a corresponding key (not shown) in the cable end 5. The cable end S also includes a cable guide 8, which is disposed transverse to an axis of the connector shell 2. The keys align the connector shell 2 and the cable end 5, to lock the orientation of the cable end 5 when the shell and cable end are mated. Once the fasteners 4 have been installed, rotation of the connector is not possible, and there is then a fixed angle between the cable guide 8 and the connector shell 2, as shown in Fig C. This angle is therefore predetermined, being fixed during manufacture and subsequent assembly of the connector, depending upon the positions of the keys on the two mating connector components (the shell 2 and cable end 5), and the particular manufacturing processes used.

A degrec of adjustment of the position of the connector can be achieved by disconnecting the connector shell 2 from the bulkhead 1, and rotating the shell through stepped positions at 90° spacings before reconnecting it to the bulkhead. However, the rotational position of the cable end S relative to the shell 2 cannot be adjusted.

Figs D, E and F are views of another conventional connector, similar to those of Figs A to C, respectively. In this example, the aperture 3 extending through the bulkhead I is tapped with a thread which is the same as a thread on a mating part 9 of a connector shell 2a. The threads are not shown in the drawing. The connector shell 2a has an integral flange that incorporates a means of screwing the connector into the bulkhead, in this case hexagonal flats. A cable end 5a again includes a cable guide 8a, disposed transverse to an axis of the connector shell 2a. Once the connector shell 2a has been frilly screwed into the bulkhead 1, rotation of the connector is not possible. A fixed angle is thus defined between the cable guide 8a and the connector shell 2a, as shown in Fig F. This angle is thus again fixed, and depends upon the positions of keys on the two mating connector components (shell 2a and cable end 5a), and the particular manufacturing processes used to make the connector parts and to tap the aperture 3 in the bulkhead 1.

It is amongst the objects of the present invention to improve upon prior underwater connectors.

Accordingly, the present invention provides an angularly adjustable underwater connector for connecting a cable to an object which is deployable undcrwater, the connector comprising: a first connector component which can be secured to the object, the first connector component defining a component axis and being rotatable about its axis; a second connector component which can be coupled to the cable and to the first connector component, to connect the cable to the object; a cable guide extending from the second connector component and defining a guide axis which is disposed transverse to the axis of the first connector component when the second connector component is coupled to the first connector component; an orienting arrangement comprising a first orienting part associated with the first connector component and a second orienting part associated with the second connector component, the first and second orienting parts cooperating to define a predetermined rotational orientation of the second connector component relative to the first connector component, and so angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the first connector component, when the components are coupled; and a securing assembly which is operable to secure the first connector component to the object; in which the first connector component is rotatable relative to the securing assembly about its axis so that the rotational orientation of the first connector component relative to the object, and so the angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the object, can be adjusted.

Advantageously, the present invention provides an underwater connector in which an angle at which a cable coupled to an underwater object extends from the object can be easily adjusted. In this way, the angle can be adjusted so as to avoid interference with other equipment, cables or connectors, and/or undesirable stresses in the cable which might otherwise result (for example, by the cable having to pass through a small bend radius in order to extend away from the object in a desired direction). This is achieved by altering the angular orientation of the cable guide (extending from the second connector component) relative to the object, by rotating the first connector component about its axis.

In effect, the present invention employs a swivel-type arrangement, to enable the angle at which the cable leaves the connector to be adjusted.

The first connector component may be rotatable about its axis prior to securement to the S object. The securing assembly may take the form of a clamping assembly operable to exert a clamping force on the first connector component, to secure the component to the object and restrict rotation of the component about its axis, thereby fixing an angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the object. The first connector component may be rotatable relative to the clamping assembly about its axis prior to operation of the clamping assembly, so that the rotational orientation of the first connector component relative to the object, and so the angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the object, can be adjusted.

Prior to securement of the first connector component to the object using the clamping assembly, alteration of the angle can easily be achieved, because the first connector component can rotate about its axis at that time. Following sceurement of the first connector component (using the clamping assembly), alteration of the angle can be achieved by at least partly releasing the clamping assembly from the object, so that the rotational orientation of the first connector component relative to the object can be adjusted.

The securing assembly may be arranged so that, following operation to secure the first connector component to the object, the component can still be rotated about its axis. This enables adjustment of said angular orientation even afier operation of the securing assembly. Means may be provided for restraining the first connector component against ifirther rotation after the angle at which the underwater cable leaves the connector has been selected. Such could include a separate andlor external clamp or restraint. The clamp or restraint may be provided, for example, on the first connector component or the cable, and may be operable to restrain the component against rotation.

The securing assembly may comprise a securing member, which may be a securing plate, defining an aperture which receives the first connector component, the connector component being rotatable within the aperture. Where the securing assembly is a clamping assembly, the securing member may be a clamping member, and the connector component may be rotatable within the aperture prior to operation of the clamping assembly. The securing member may be securable directly to the object.

The first connector component may comprise a securing element which cooperates with the securing assembly so that, when the clamping assembly is operated, the first connector component is secured to the object. The connector component may be secured in that the securing element cannot pass through the aperture in the securing member. Where the securing assembly is a clamping assembly, the securing element may be a clamping element which, when the assembly is operated, exerts the clamping force on the clamping element to secure the first connector component to the object. The securing element may be a flange, shoulder, rim or the like provided on or coupled to the first connector component, and may be an annular flange. The clamping member and the clamping element may be arranged so that operation of the clamping assembly causes the clamping member to exert the clamping force on the clamping element. The clamping member may be securable to the object using at least one fastener, which may be a threaded fastener.

The securing member may comprise an inner surface which faces the object, in use, and a recess formed in the inner surface which is shaped to receive the securing element of the first connector component. A depth of the recess may be greater than a depth of the securing element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component. In this way, when the securing assembly is operated, to secure the securing member to the object, the relative depths of the recess and the securing element may be such that the first connector component can still be rotated about its axis.

Where the securing assembly is a clamping assembly, a depth of the recess may be less than a depth of the clamping element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component. In this way, when the clamping assembly is operated, to secure the clamping member to the object, thc relative depths of the recess and the clamping element may be such that the clamping element, and therefore the first connector component, is clamped and so secured to the object (and held against rotation about its axis). The first connector component may comprise a seal which is arranged to seal the component relative to a surface of the object, when the clamping assembly is operated.

The securing assembly may comprise the securing member, which may be a first securing member and which may be a unitary or one-piece member, and a second split securing member (which again may take the form of a plate) comprising a plurality of securing parts which together form the securing member. The first securing member may define an outer surface which faces away from the object, in use, and a recess may be formed in the outer surface which is shaped to receive the securing element of the first connector component.

The securing parts forming the second split securing member may be shaped to fit around the first connector component, and to overlie the recess so that the securing element of the first connector component is positioned between (in an axial direction) the first securing member (in the recess) and the second split securing member. The second split securing member may be securable to the first securing member to retain the securing element of the first connector component in the recess, and so secure the component to the object.

The second split securing member may be securable to the first securing member using at least one fastener, which may be a threaded fastener.

A depth of the recess may be greater than a depth of the securing element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component. In this way, the first connector component can still be rotated about its axis following securing of the second split securing member to the first securing member.

Where the securing assembly is a clamping assembly, the first and second securing members may be clamping members, and a depth of the recess may be less than a depth of the clamping clement, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component. In this way, securing the second split clamping member to the first clamping member may clamp the clamping element of the first connector component to secure it against rotation.

The first securing member may be threaded so that it can be screwed into a threaded hole in a wall of the object, to secure the securing member to the object. The first securing member may comprise a threaded tubular boss.

Reference is made herein to the first connector component being rotatable relative to the clampthg assembly about its axis prior to operation of the clamping assembly. It will be understood that reference to operation of the clamping assembly should be understood to mean operation of the clamping assembly to clamp the first connector component, thereby restricting its rotation. In the case of the clamping assembly described above, the fasteners can be screwed-in to couple the clamping member to the object, or the second clamping member to the first clamping member, without restricting rotation of the first connector component. It is only when the fasteners are filly driven home that rotation of the first connector component is restricted. Reference to operation of the clamping assembly should be interpreted accordingly.

The cable guide axis may be disposed at approximately 900 relative to the axis of the first connector component, when the second connector component is coupled to the first connector component. The cable guide may be arranged relative to the second connector component so that a fixed angle is defined between the cable guide and the second connector component. In particular, the second connector component may define a component axis which is parallel to (and typically coaxial with) the first component axis when the components are coupled, and the cable guide may be arranged so that an angle between the guide axis and the second connector component axis is fixed. The cable guide may be fixed and so non-rotatable with respect to the second connector component. The cable guide may form an end of the cable or may be coupled to an end of the cable. The cable guide may be formed integrally with at least one of the second connector component and an end of the cable. The cable guide may be moulded around an end of the cable, and may be of a suitable material such as a plastics material.

One of the first and second connector components may comprise a locking collar which engages with a locking formation provided on the other one of the first and second connector components, for securely coupling the second connector component to the first connector component. The locking collar may be rotatable relative to a main part of the respective connector component. The locking collar may be threaded and the fonnation may be a corresponding thread provided on the respective connector component.

The first connector component may comprise a plurality of first couplings, and the second connector component may comprise a plurality of corresponding second couplings which are arranged to mate with the first couplings, when the first and second connector components are coupled together. Each respective pair of first and second couplings may be associatable with a respective line or core of the underwater cable. The line/core may be selected from the group comprising: an electrical or hydraulic power line; an electrical, hydraulic or optical communicationlsignal line; and an electrical, hydraulic or optical control line.

The first and second orienting parts may be arranged so that the second connector component can be translated relative to the first connector component, but cannot rotate relative to it once the orientating parts have been brought into cooperation. The orienting parts may be brought into cooperation by physical contact between the parts. One of the first and second connector components may define a male mating part, and the other a female mating part which receives the male part so that the connector components can be coupled together. The female mating part may define a generally cylindrical socket and the male mating part a generally cylindrical plug which engages in the socket to couple the connector components. The first and second orienting parts may comprise flats formed in or on a wall of the socket and the plug, the flats arrange for sliding contact so that translational movement of the second connector component relative to the first is allowed whilst rotation is restricted. One of the first and second orienting parts may comprise an elongate key extending parallel to the axis of the first connector component, and the other a corresponding slot which receives the key so as to allow translation whilst preventing rotation. The orienting arrangement may comprise at least two pairs of first and second orienting parts, to thereby define a plurality of predetermined rotational orientations of the second connector component relative to the first connector component.

The first connector component may be rotatable about its axis through a complete revolution (i.e. 3600) in both clockwise and anti-clockwise (counter-clockwise) directions.

The only restriction on the extent of rotation of the first connector component about its axis which is possible may be the lines or cores of a connecting cable extending from the first connector component, which would become twisted about one another during rotation of the component.

It will be understood that the underwater object may be any object which is capable of being deployed underwater. Particular examples of underwater objects with which the connector of the present invention has a use include diving support equipment such as a pressure vessel or decompression chamber, which comprise a water and pressure containing bulkhead. Other examples include objects intended to be deployed underwater and having a use in any of the following industries: the oil and gas exploration and production industry (where underwater cables and connectors may be employed in subsea flow control installations and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs)), military, oceanographic, other (alternative) energy extraction, deep sea mineral recovery, salvage, scientific investigation and instrumentation, and surveying industries. The connector, in particular the first connector component, may be adapted to be mounted directly to the bulkhead and so to fonn a penetration through the bulkhead.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig 1 is an exploded perspective view of an angularly adjustable underwater connector for connecting a cable to an object which is deployable underwater, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Fig 2 is an exploded perspective view of the connector shown in Fig 1, taken from a different angle; Fig 3 is an end view of the connector of Figs 1 and 2, shown in an assembled state; Fig 3A is an enlarged perspective view of the connector of Figs 1 and 2, with part of the connector removed, for illustration purposes; Fig 4 is an exploded perspective view of an angularly adjustable underwater connector for connecting a cable to an object which is deployable underwater, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; Fig S is an exploded perspective view of the connector of Fig 4, taken from a different angle; and Fig 6 is an end view of the connector of Figs 4 and 5, shown in an assembled state.

Turning firstly to Fig 1, there is shown an exploded perspective view of an angularly adjustable underwater connector, the connector indicated generally by reference numeral 10. The connector 10 serves for connecting a cable 12 to an object which is deployable underwater, part of the object shown in the drawings and indicated by reference numeral 1.

As with the prior connectors shown and described in Figs A to F, the object 1 is a water and/or pressure-proof bulkhead of an object which can be deployed underwater. The connectors disclosed in this document have a use with a wide variety of different objects which can be deployed underwater, as described above, including but not limited to diving equipment, subsea flow control installations/equipment and ROVs. In the exemplary pressure vessel, the bulkhead 1 may experience a pressure differential across it, in which internal and external sides of the bulkhead are exposed to fluids at different pressures.

However, it will be understood that the bulkhead 1 may be exposed to different fluids at similar pressures, on its internal and external sides. Examples of the latter include bulkheads which are exposed to water on one side and an inert fluid (such as oil), at similar pressures, on the other side.

The connector 10 is also shown in the exploded perspective view of Fig 2, which is taken from a different angle to Fig I; Fig 3, which is an end view of the connector showing it in an assembled state; and Fig 3A, which is an enlarged perspective view of the connector with part of the connector removed, for illustration purposes.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 10 is of a type known in the industry as a "panel mounted connector". The connector 10 generally comprises a first connector component 14 which can be secured to the object, and so to the bulkhead 1. The first connector component 14 defines an axis 16 and is rotatable about its axis. As will be described below, the first conncctor component 14 may be rotatable about its axis 16 at all times, or may only be rotatable prior to securement to the bulkhead I. The connector 10 also comprises a second connector component 18, which can be coupled to the underwater cable 12 and to the first connector component 14, to connect the cable 12 to the bulkhead I and so to the underwater object. The connector 10 also comprises a cable guide 20 extending from the second connector component 18, and defining a guide axis 22 which is disposed transverse to the axis 16 of the first connector component 14, when the second connector component 18 is coupled to the first component. The connector 10 also comprises an orienting arrangement 24 which comprises a first orienting part 26 associated with the first connector component 14, and a second orienting part 28 associated with the second connector component 18. The first and second orienting parts 26 and 28 cooperate to define a predetermined rotational orientation of the second connector component 18 relative to the first connector component 14, and so an angular orientation of the cable guide 20 relative to the first connector component 14, when the components 14 and 18 are coupled together. The connector 10 also comprises a securing assembly, indicated generally by reference numeral 30, which is operable to secure the component to the bulkhead 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the securing assembly 30 takes the form of a clamping assembly, which is operable to exert a clamping force on the first connector component 14, to both secure the component to the bulkhead 1 and restrict rotation of the first connector component 14 about its axis 16. This fixes an angular orientation of the cable guide 20 extending from the second connector component 1 8 (coupled to the first component 14), relative to the bulkhead I and so relative to the underwater object. However, in a variation on the illustrated embodiment (which will be described below), the first connector component 14 can still rotate about its axis 16 after it has been secured to the bulkhead I using the securing assembly 30.

In use, the first connector component 14 is rotatable relative to the clamping assembly 30 about its axis 16 prior to operation of the clamping assembly. In this way, a rotational orientation of the first connector component 14 relative to the bulkhead 1 (and so the object) can be adjusted. Consequently, an angular orientation of the cable guide 20 relative to the bulkhead I (and so the object) can also be adjusted. In this way, the angle at which the cable 12 leaves the connector 10 can be adjusted. This is illustrated in Fig 3, which shows an angle A between the axis 22 of the cable guide 20 and a generally horizontal line 32. It will be understood that this angle A can readily be adjusted by partly releasing the clamping assembly 30, so that the coupled first and second connector components 14, 18 can be rotated about axis 16.

The provision of an underwater connector 10 in which an angle at which the cable 12 extends away from the object can be adjusted in this way offers significant advantages over pror connectors. In particular, the ability to adjust the angle helps to avoid interference with other equipment, or indeed other underwater cables/connectors. It also helps to avoid undesirable stresses in the cable 12, which might otherwise result. This is because, in prior connectors, the angle was fixed, as described with reference to Figs A to F above, so that it could not be altered after connection of a cable to an object (although in the example of Fig A, the angle could be adjusted between the four stepped 90° spacings by rotating the entire connector). In practice, factors which restricted the angle included the location of the keys 7 on the prior connector shells 2, 2a and on the cable ends 5, 5a. The position of the keys 7 on the two mating connector components, and in particular the manufacturing processes used to make the connector and the part of the cable formed with the cable end, restricted the respective angle.

The connector 10, and its method of operation, will now be described in more detail.

The first connector component 14 takes the form of a connector shell which is of a generally cylindrical shape. The first end 34 of the connector shell 14 defines a boss which is shaped for location within the aperture 3 in the bulkhead I. In this embodiment, the aperture 3 and boss 34 are arranged so that the boss 34 can rotate freely within the aperture 3. The connector shell 14 comprises a securing element which, in the illustrated embodiment, is a clamping element in the form of a generally annular flange 36, which is spaced along the shell from the end defining the boss 34. The flange 36 is dimensioned so that, when the connector shell boss 34 is fblly inserted into the aperture 3, a surface 38 of the flange will seat against an outer surface 40 of the bulkhead 1.

A second end 42 of the connector shell 14 defines a generally cylindrical socket 44, which is shaped to receive a boss 46 of the second connector component 18, shown in Fig 3A.

The connector shell 14 is formed with integral couplings, two of which are shown in Fig 1 and given the reference numeral 48. Whilst a plurality of such couplings 48 are shown, it will be understood that, in other embodiments, only a single coupling may be provided.

The couplings 48 are each associated with a respective line or core 50 of an internal cable 52, which is connected to the underwater cable 12 when the connector components 14 and 18 are coupled together. The first orienting part 26 of the orienting arrangement 24 takes the form of an axially extending flat provided in the socket 44, defined by a wall of the connector shell 14. The second end 42 of the connector shell also carries an external thread 54, which serves for connecting the shell 14 to the second connector component 18.

When the connector shell 14 and the second connector component 18 are coupled together, the guide axis 22 is typically disposed at 90° relative to the connector component axis 16, as can clearly be seen in Fig 3.

The clamping assembly 30 comprises a securing member which, in this embodiment, is a clamping member in the form of a plate 56. The plate 56 includes an aperture 58 which is shaped to receive the connector shell 14, so that the plate 56 can pass over the threaded second end 42 of the shell. The clamping assembly 30 also comprises at least one fastener and, in the illustrated embodiment, comprises four fasteners 60 which serve for securing the plate 56 to the bulkhead 1, and so to the object. Each fastener 60 passes through a bore 62 in the plate 56, and the fasteners are threaded for engaging in blind threaded bores 64 in the bulkhead 1. As best shown in Fig 2, the plate 56 comprises an inner surface 66 which faces the bulkhead 1, and a recess 68 which is provided in the inner surface 66. The recess is shaped to receive the flange 36 on the connector shell 2, and a depth of the recess (in a direction along the shell axis 16) is less than a depth of the flange 36 (taken along axis 16).

In this way, when the threaded fasteners 60 are hilly screwed into place, the plate 56 exerts a clamping force on the flange 36, clamping it between a shoulder 70 of the plate 56 and the outer surface 40 of the bulkhead 1. This secures the connector shell 14 against rotation about its axis 16, as described above. It will be understood that the connector shell 14 is freely rotatable about its axis 16, subject only to restrictions of twisting the lines or cores of internal cable 52 about one-another, prior to securing of the plate 56 to the bulkhead 1 using the fasteners 60.

As the connector 10 effectively makes a penetration through the bulkhead 1, via the aperture 3, it is necessary to seal the connector relative to the bulkhead. This is achieved by providing a seal, which may be an annular seal such as an 0-ring 71, within the flange 36. When the clamping assembly 30 is operated, the seal 71 is compressed between the outer surface 40 of the bulkhead 1, and an internal shoulder (not shown) of the flange 36.

The second connector component 18 includes a plurality of couplings 72, which extend from the boss 46, and which fonn male couplings which mate with the couplings 48 in the connector shell 14, which form female couplings. However, the female couplings may be provided on the second connector component 18 and the male couplings on the first connector component 14. Each one of the couplings 72 is associated with a corresponding line or core (not shown) in the underwater cable 12. The lines or cores of the underwater cable 12 can be selected from the group comprising an electrical or hydraulic power line; an electrical, hydraulic or optical communication/signal line; and an electrical, hydraulic or optical control line. These provide for the required power, control and/or communication functions with the object in question. Whilst it is conceivable that one or more line in the underwater cable may be a hydraulic line, typically the lines will all be either electrical or optical lines.

The lines or cores of the underwater cable 12 extend from the cable through the cable guide 20, which is typically of a plastics material that is over-moulded around an end 74 of the cable, and pass into a generally cylindrical barrel portion 76 of the second connector component 18. In effect, the second connector component 18 forms a cable end. The barrel portion 76 and the cable guide 20 are typically formed together in the over-moulding process discussed above, so that the boss 46, barrel portion 76 and cable guide 20 are provided as a unitary or single-piece construction. In the prior connectors such as those of Figs A and D, careful rotational orientation of a boss of the cable end 515a was required during the moulding process, to ensure correct positioning of the flat which mates with the flat 7 in the connector shell 2!2a (and so the cable angle). A significant advantage of the present invention is that such precise orientation during moulding of the cable end is no longer required, as the cable angle can be adjusted during coupling of the cable 12 to the bulkhead 1.

The second orienting part 28 comprises a flat formed on an outer surface of the boss 46, and which extends in an axial direction, in a similar way to the flat 26 in the socket 44.

The flats 26 and 28 thus cooperate so that the boss 46 can be inserted into the socket 44 (and so permit translation of the cable end 18 relative to the connector shell 14), but so that relative rotation between the cable end 18 and the connector shell 14 is restricted. In this way, a rotational orientation of the cable end 18 with respect to the shell 14 is fixed. This ensures correct mating between the couplings 72 and 48.

The cable end 18 also comprises an internally threaded locking collar 78 (shown removed in Fig 3A), which engages with the thread 54 on the second end 42 of the connector shell 14, so that the shell 2 and cable end 18 can be securely coupled together. The second externally threaded end 42 of the shell 14 protrudes through the plate aperture 56 for engagement by the thread on the locking collar 78. The collar 78 is rotatably mounted on the barrel portion 76, so that it can be rotated to engage the shell thread 54.

Typically, the connector 10 will be assembled and operated as follows.

The connector shell boss 34 is located within the aperture 3, so that the flange 36 is positioned next to the outer surface 40 of the bulkhead 1. The clamping plate 56 is then located over the threaded second end 42 of the shell 14, and the cable end 18, provided integrally on the end 74 of the underwater cable 12, is introduced to the connector shell 14.

The thread on the locking collar 78 is mated with the thread 54 on the shell end 42, and the collar is rotated to securely clamp the cable end 18 to the connector shell 14. However, sufficient axial play is provided so that the connector shell 14 can still rotate relative to the plate 56.

The plate 56 is then translated over the connector shell 14, so that the flange 36 is filly received in the recess 68. The fasteners 60 are then located in the bores 62 and threaded into the blind bores 64 in the bulkhead 1. The fasteners are initially loosely filled, so that the mated coimector shell 14 and cable end 18 can be rotated about the shell axis 16. This enables the angle A which the cable guide 20 adopts, and so the angle at which the cable 12 leaves the connector 10, to be adjusted as required. The fasteners 60 can then be frilly driven home, clamping the flange 36 between the bulkhead surface 40 and the shoulder 70 of the plate 56. This locks the connector shell 14, and so the mated shell and cable end 18, against rotation. This in-mm fixes the angle at which the underwater cable 12 leaves the connector 10. The internal cable 52 is then wired up to the female couplings 48 in the connector shell 14.

In a variation on this procedure, the clamping plate 56 may be positioned over the connector shell 14 and loosely secured to the bulkhead 1 using the fasteners 60. The rotational orientation of the connector shell 14 may then be adjusted, using the rotational position of the flat 26 to determine the angle at which the cable guide 20 will be located (the angle between the cable guide 20 and the cable end 18 being known). The plate 56 can then be filly secured to the bulkhead 1, clamping the connector shell 14, and the internal cable 52 optionally wired up to the female couplings 48 in the connector shell 14 at this stage. The cable end 18 can then be coupled to the connector shell 14 using the locking collar 78. Any misalignments which may have occurred during this process, resulting in the cable 12 leaving the connector 10 at an undesirable angle, can readily be accommodated by backing off the fasteners 60 sufficiently to enable rotation of the connector shell 14. The angle can then be changed and the fasteners 60 re-secured, to clamp the connector shell 14.

In a variation on the embodiment shown in Figs 1 to 3A, the first connector component 14 can still rotate about its axis 16 after it has been secured to the bulkhead I by the securing assembly 30. The securing member 56, taking the form of a plate, is secured to the bulkhead 1 using the threaded fasteners 60, as described above, The plate 56 securely connects the connector shell 14 to the bulkhead I, but without restricting rotation of the shell about its axis 16. In this way, the angle A at which the underwater cable 12 leaves the connector 10 can be adjusted even after the connector shell 14 has been secured to the bulkhead 1, One way in which this can be achieved is by making the depth of the recess 68 in the inner surface 66 of the plate 56 greater than a depth of securing flange 36 (taken along axis 16). In this way, when the threaded fasteners 60 are thily screwed into place, the flange 36 on the connector shell 14 is free to rotate relative to the plate 56, within the recess 68.

Turning now to Fig 4, there is shown an angularly adjustable underwater connector in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the connector indicated generally by reference numeral 100. Like components of the connector 100 with the connector 10 of Figs 1 to 3A share the same reference numerals, incremented by 100.

Only the significant differences between the connector 100 and the connector 10 will be described in detail.

In this embodiment, the connector 100 comprises a first connector component in the form of a connector shell 114 with a first end 134 forming a boss which is of a reduced diameter, compared to the boss 34 of the connector 10. A clamping assembly 130 comprises a clamping plate 156 which is a unitary or one-piece plate, much like the plate 56 of the connector 10. However, the clamping plate 156 comprises a generally cylindrical tubular boss 80 which is shaped for location in the bulkhead aperture 3, and which carries an external thread which engages a corresponding thread of the aperture 3. The threads are not shown in the drawing. In this way, the plate 156 is secured to the bulkhead 1 by threading the boss 80 into the aperture 3. This is facilitated by providing hex-flats 82 on the plate 156, which enable tightening of the plate using a suitable spanner. Sufficient torque must be applied to the clamping plate 156 to clamp a seal 171, located in an internal recess 92, relative to the outer bulkhead surface 40.

The plate 156 also comprises an outer surface 84 which faces away from the bulkhead surface 40, and which comprises a recess 168 which receives a flange 136 on the connector shell 114. The recess 168 is defined by a shoulder 170, and the depth of the recess 168, in a direction along an axis 116 of the connector shell 114, is less than a depth of the flange 136. The boss defined by the first end 134 of the connector shell 114 is shaped for location within the tubular boss 80 defined by the clamping plate 156, so that the flange 136 can be positioned in the recess 168.

The clamping assembly 130 also comprises a second, split clamping plate which, in this embodiment, comprises first and second clamping parts 86 and 88. The clamping parts 86 and 88 are shaped to fit around a shafi 90 of the connector shell 114, and to overlie the recess 168 defined by the first clamping plate 156. The clamping parts 86 and 88 include stepped bores 162 which receive threaded fasteners 160. The threaded fasteners 160 engage blind threaded bores 164 in the first clamping plate 156, to secure the first and second clamp parts 86 and 88 to the clamping plate 156. Tn this way, when the fasteners are lightened, the flange 136 on the connector shell 114 is securely clamped between the shoulder 170 of the first clamping plate 156, and the first and second clamp parts 86 and 88 together form the split second clamping plate. This secures the connector shell 114 against rotation about its axis 116, as described above.

It will be understood that, in this embodiment, the rotational position which the first clamping plate 156 adopts, relative to the bulkhead 1, is determined by the thread on the boss 80 and the orientation of the hex flats 82 relative to the boss threads. Similarly, the orientation of the first and second clamp parts 86 and 88 is restricted by the positioning of the blind threaded bores 164 in the first clamping plate 156. However, prior to screwing the fasteners 160 fully home, the connector shell 114 can be rotated about its axis 116 since, at this time, the flange 136 is not clamped in the recess 168.

In a variation on the embodiment shown in Figs 4 to 6, the first connector component 114 can still rotate about its axis 116 after it has been secured to the bulkhead 1 by the securing assembly 130. Tn this variation, the securing member 156, taking the form of a plate, is secured to the bulkhead I by threading the boss 80 into the aperture 3, Flange 136 on connector shell 114 (which forms a securing flange) is then positioned within the recess 168, and the parts 86 and 88 (forming a second securing plate) are then secured to the plate 156, using the threaded fasteners 160. The plate 156 and the plate parts 86 and 88 securely connect the connector shell 114 to the bulkhead 1, but without restricting rotation of the shell about its axis 116. In this way, the angle A at which the underwater cable 112 leaves the connector 100 can be adjusted even after the connector shell 114 has been secured to the bulkhead 1. One way in which this can be achieved is by making the depth of the recess 168 in the outer surface 166 of the plate 156 greater than a depth of securing flange 136 (taken along axis 116). In this way, when the threaded fasteners 160 are fully screwed into place, the flange 136 on the connector shell 114 is free to rotate relative to the plate 156, within the recess 168.

Further variations on the above described embodiments are within the scope of the invention. In particular, in the variations on the embodiments of Figs 1 to 3A and Figs 4 to 6, in which the respective connector shells 14/114 can still rotate about their axes 16/116 after having been secured to the bulkhead 1 by their securing assemblies 30/130, suitable means m@y be provided for restraining the connector shells against further rotation after the angle at which the underwater cable 12/112 leaves the connector 10/100 has been selected. Such could include a separate and/or external clamp or restraint (not shown).

The clamp or restraint may be provided, for example, on the connector shell or the cable, and may be operable to restrain the connector shell 14/114.

Various modifications may be made to the foregoing without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

For example, one of the first and second orienting parts may comprise an elongate key extending parallel to the axis of the first connector component, and the other a corresponding slot which receives the key so as to allow translation whilst preventing rotation.

The orienting arrangement may comprise at least two pairs of first and second orienting parts, to thereby define a plurality of predetermined rotational orientations of the second connector component relative to the first connector component.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An angularly adjustable underwater connector for connecting a cable to an object which is deployable underwater, the connector comprising: a first connector component which can be secured to the object, the first connector component defining a component axis and being rotatable about its axis; a second connector component which can be coupled to the cable and to the first connector component, to connect the cable to the object; a cable guide extending from the second connector component and defining a guide axis which is disposed transverse to the axis of the first connector component when the second connector component is coupled to the first connector component; an orienting arrangement comprising a first orienting part associated with the first connector component and a second orienting part associated with the second connector component, the first and second orienting parts cooperating to define a predetermined rotational orientation of the second connector component relative to the first connector component, and so angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the first connector component, when the components are coupled; and a securing assembly which is operable to secure the first connector component to the object; in which the first connector component is rotatable relative to the securing assembly about its axis so that the rotational orientation of the first connector component relative to the object, and so the angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the object, can be adjusted.
2. A connector as claimed in claim I, in which the first connector component is rotatable about its axis prior to securement to the object.
3. A connector as claimed in claim 2, in which the securing assembly takes the form of a clamping assembly operable to exert a clamping force on the first connector component, to secure the component to the object and restrict rotation of the component about its axis, thereby fixing an angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the object.
4. A connector as claimed in claim 3, in which the first connector component is rotatable relative to the clamping assembly about its axis prior to operation of the clamping assembly, so that the rotational orientation of the first connector component relative to the object, and so the angular orientation of the cable guide relative to the object, can be adjusted.
5, A connector as claimed in claim 1, in which the securing assembly is arranged so that, following operation to secure the first connector component to the object, the component can still be rotated about its axis.
6. A connector as claimed in claim 5, in which means is provided for restraining the first connector component against further rotation after the angle at which the underwater cable leaves the connector has been selected.
7. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the securing assembly comprises a securing mcmber defining an aperture which receives the first connector component, the connector component being rotatable within the aperture.
8. A connector as claimed in either of claims 3 or 4, in which the clamping assembly comprises a clamping member defining an aperture which receives the first connector component, the connector component being rotatable within the aperture prior to operation of the clamping assembly.
9. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the first connector component comprises a securing element which cooperates with the securing assembly so that, when the securing assembly is operated, the first connector component is secured to the object.
10. A connector as claimed in claim 9, when dependent on any one of claims 3,4 or 8, in which the securing element is a clamping element which, when the assembly is operated, exerts the clamping force on the clamping element to secure the first connector component to the object.
II. A connector as claimed in claim 10, when dependent on claim 8, in which the clamping member and the clamping element are arranged so that operation of the clamping assembly causes the clamping member to exert the clamping force on the clamping element.
12. A connector as claimed in claim 7, or any one of claims 8 to 11 when dependent on claim 7, in which the securing member comprises an inner surface which faces the object, in use, and a recess fonned in the inner surface which is shaped to receive the securing element of the first connector component.
13. A connector as claimed in claim 12, in which a depth of the recess is greater than a depth of the securing element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component.
14. A connector as claimed in claim 12, in which a depth of the recess is less than a depth of the clamping element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component.
15. A connector as claimed in claim 14, in which the first connector component comprises a seal which is arranged to seal the component relative to a surface of the object, when the clamping assembly is operated.
16. A comector as claimed in claim 7, or any one of claims 8 to 15 when dependent on claim 7, in which the securing assembly comprises the securing member, which is a first one-piece securing member, and a second split securing member comprising a plurality of securing parts which together fonn the securing member.
17. A connector as claimed in claim 16, in which the first securing member defines an outer surface which faces away from the object, in use, and a recess is formed in the outer surface which is shaped to receive the securing element of the first connector component.
18. A connector as claimed in either of claims 16 or 17, in which the securing parts forming the second split securing member are shaped to fit around the first connector component, and to overlie the recess so that the securing element of the first connector component is positioned between the first securing member and the second split securing member.
19. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, in which the second split securing member is securable to the first securing member to retain the securing element of the first connector component in the recess, and so secure the component to the object.
20. A connector as claimed in claim 17, or either of claims 18 or 19 when dependent on claim 17, in which a depth of the recess is greater than a depth of the securing element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component.
21. A connector as claimed in claim 17, or either of claims 18 or 19 when dependent on claim 17, in which the first and second securing members are clamping members, and a depth of the recess is less than a depth of the clamping element, in a direction along the axis of the first connector component.
22. A connector as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 21, in which the first securing member is threaded so that it can be screwed into a threaded hole in a wall of the object, to secure the securing member to the object.
23. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the cable guide is arranged relative to the second connector component so that a fixed angle is defined between the cable guide and the second connector component.
24. A connector as claimed in claim 23, in which the cable guide is fixed and so non-rotatable with respect to the second connector component.
25. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the first and second orienting parts are arranged so that the second connector component can be translated relative to the first connector component, but cannot rotate relative to it once the orientating parts have been brought into cooperation.
26. A connector as claimed in claim 25, in which one of the first and second connector components defines a male mating part, and the other a female mating part which receives the male part so that the connector components can be coupled together.
27. A connector as claimed in claim 26, in which the female mating part defines a generally cylindrical socket and the male mating part a generally cylindrical plug which engages in the socket to couple the connector components, and in which the first and second orienting parts comprise flats formed on a wall of the socket and the plug, the flats arranged for sliding contact so that translational movement of the second connector component relative to the first is allowed whilst rotation is restricted.