Field of the invention The present invention relates to a hook system which comprises a hook and a locking member, where the hook has an orifice for passage of an object in and out of the hook, where the locking member is pivotally mounted to the edge of the orifice, where the locking member has a free end, where the locking member is pivotable between a closed position with the free end in abutment against the tip of the hook, so that the orifice is blocked for passage of the object out of the hook, and an open position with the free end clear of the hook at the tip, so that the object can pass in and out of the hook through the orifice, where the locking member is spring influenced in a locking pivot direction against the locked position and where the hook is pivotally mounted to a hous- ing by a hook shaft.

The present invention relates further to the use of a hook system.

Background of the invention

Hook systems are used in many different contexts. For example in connection with cranes, where hook systems allows a connection between a load and a lifting wire or in connection with mountaineering, where the hook systems are used to secure the mountaineer by establishing a connection between the harness of the mountaineer and support blocks, which is attached to the substrate.

Another use of hook systems is related to shipping, where hook systems mainly are used for entry into a port, where e.g. boat hooks with hook systems are used to intervene moorings ashore and bringing them within reach of the crew, so that can safely moore. Common for all the mentioned hook systems is the demand for reliable function and secure against inadverted release. In order to ensure against inadverted release the hook systems are furnished with a locking device, which allows for example a mooring line, to pass into the hook system, but the object is then unable to pass out of the hook system without the device is previously opened by a user.

By lifting hooks it might be satisfactory that the locking device can be operated close to the hook system, as the user will be near the hook system when it must be disconnected from the load.

In other contexts it might be necessary that the locking device can be operated remotely, so that the user does not need to be close to the hook system. An example on such a situation is a boat hook as mentioned above, the user would otherwise have to reach out over the side of the ship to release the hook system with consequent danger of falling overboard.

A hook system of the initially stated kind is known from WO 01/30647 A1 (Rahikka), which define a fastening hook, which is pivotally mounted to a hook body, and with locking means which lock the hook to the hook body, and wherein the hook and the hook body, in combination, the fastening hook. The fastening hook is spring influenced against the closed/locked position. The fastening hook also includes a locking member provided with a spring for blocking the opening into the hook hollow. The hook body, to which the pivot- ally fastening hook is attached includes a releasable spring-loaded locking mechanism by which the fastening hook can be released to rotate backwards, away from the coupling orifice and the locking member, by pulling in a rope attached to the hook body with a force which exceeds the spring load on the hook towards the closed and locked position, after which the object is re- leased from the fastening hook, which then swings back to the starting position, in the closed position. The releasable spring-loaded locking mechanism is released by displacing the locking mechanism backwardly, in the direction away from the fastening hook, for example, by pulling a cord attached to the housing. The disadvantage of this known hook system is that there must be a separate operation to displace the releasable spring-loaded locking mechanism, for example by pulling on a rope, while the fastening hook is released, making use of the hook system slow, which is inappropriate for instance in situations where a pulling rope must be released at the right moment.

For attach the hook, it must be tied to a mooring, and be fitted with a temporary boat hook / telescopic rod (via a slot on the hook and the telescopic rod) by which can be handed out for the item to attach it. When the item is at- tached the mooring is held, and the telescopic rod is pulled off the hook/slot. When the hook then released, the telescopic rod is turned 180 degrees, where there is a boat hook (opposite the slot). The boat hook is introduced into a hole in the rear end of the spring-loaded locking mechanism whereby the lock- ing mechanism is pulled back with the boat hook, alternatively pulled back- wards by pulling a separate line, attached to the spring-loaded locking mechanism (see above), thereby the fastening hook is unlocked simultaneously draws to the mooring with a force that exceeds the spring load on the hook against the closed and locked position and the hook is free and must onboard the boat again to get prepared for next attachment.

The latter preparation operation also makes it difficult to use the known hook system

Object of the invention

It is the object of the invention to provide a hook system, which can be remotely controlled which provides a safe and reliable closure, and which does not require the use of tow lines or hooks to release hook system from an ob- ject. Disclosure of the invention.

According to the present invention this is achieved with a hook system of the initially stated kind, which is characterized in that the hook comprises a shank, which is connected with the hook axle, where the shaft has an extension extending from the hook axle away from the shaft, which extension cooperates with a abutment surface on the housing, where the hook is pivotable around the hook axle between a locking position in which the extension is in abutment with the abutment surface on the housing, and a release position in which the hook is rotated in the direction towards the orifice, and where the hook includes a spring means which is arranged so that the hook is spring influenced towards the locking position, where the housing is formed with a locking stop with an abutment surface for the locking member, so that the locking member bears against the locking stop during pivoting of the hook towards the release position for opening of the orifice.

Hereby is achieved that the hook system can be remotely controlled, by manipulating the housing with the object in engagement against the tip of the hook, and swinging the hook relative to the housing and locking member, as this will cause engagement with the locking stop, so as to form a passage for the object between the hook tip and the free end of the locking member. As the hook is spring-loaded it will swing back to the lock position and is ready for repeated use. By the invention is achieved a safe and reliable closure, as the spring-loaded hook returns to the locking position by the action. Furthermore, it is achieved that no separate operations as pulling rods, hooks or lines, in order to release the hook from the locked position to the open position is necessary, as this is carried out by manipulation of the hook housing, typically via a shaft, as will be seen later. This makes the hook system according to the invention very flexible and easier and faster in use than the prior art hook system, as the hook system immediately after release from an object is ready to receive a new object in the hook, while the hook system of the prior art must first be prepared for it, by checking the trigger line etc. As the hook system according to the invention is designed so that the housing is formed with a first hook stop for the hook in the locking position, it is achieved that the object can be inserted in the hook by using the housing as a handle, as the hook will not bend backwards. The hook is thus very stable in the locked position.

The first hook stop can be established on the house as a bearing surface forming an abutment for a part of the hook, so the hook is prevented from continuing rotation.

Alternatively, the first hook stop can be established as a limitation of the travel of the spring loaded member.

According to a further embodiment, the. hook system according to the present invention may be characterized in, that the housing is formed with a second hook stop for the hook in the release position.

Hereby is achieved the object to be released in a more reliable manner, since the hook can be added a force that ensures a sufficient opening of the orifice of the hook.

The second hook stop may be established on the house as a abutment surface forming an abutment for part of the hook, so the hook is prevented from continuing rotation.

Alternatively, the second hook stop might be established as a limitation of the travel of the spring loaded member.

According to a further embodiment of the hook system of the invention may, the house of the hook system may further comprise a releasable attached rod, where respectively the housing and the rod comprise cooperating connecting means for attaching the housing to the rod. This ensures that the reach of the hook system is increased.

Rod length adjusted to the desired range. According to a further embodiment of the hook system according to the invention, the rod may consist of a telescopic bar.

The telescope rod can be so adjustable that it can be positioned in a first position, wherein the respective telescopic parts can be displaced relative to each other, which can be an advantage if the hook system is used as mooring, where there will be a possibility of compensating for the tide, and in a second locked position in which the respective links can ^' t be displaced relatively, and wherein the respective links constitute a rod the length of which can be adjusted in accordance with the actual conditions, which is

advantageous in gripping an object, or releasing of the hook system from an object.

The invention solves a further problem of the prior art. Since the prior art, as described in WO 01/30647 A1 makes use of a connection between the control lever on the hook and the user, the rod length can only be varied within this range. Furthermore, there is a risk that the control connection, there is a wire or cord, can entangle together and prevent release. This is avoided with the hook system according to the invention, since the hook can be released only by manipulation of the rod.

In embodiments with telescopic rod the hook system can be used with the telescopic rod in all lengths. Provided that the telescopic rod can be locked.

Hereby is achieved that the reach of the hook system may be increased without storing of the hook system is taking up a correspondingly amount of space.

The telescopic rod can be designed with one, two, three, four or more telescopic links. According to a further embodiment the hook system according to the invention is characterized in that it comprises a line which is in connection with the hook.

Hereby it is achieved that the hook system can be used as mooring. The hook system is attached to the mooring object, while the line is attached to the vessel. The locking member safeguards against unintended release of the hook system from the mooring object.

The line can be direct connected to the hook or be in indirect connection with the house via the housing.

According to a further embodiment the hook system according to the invention is characterized in, that the hook system comprises locking means for securing the hook in the locking position.

By securing shall be understood that pivoting of the hook towards the release position is not possible, or in other words, that the hook is locked against turn relative to the housing. Hereby is added a further safeguard against unattended release of the hook from the mooring object.

The locking means can further be combined with a locker, so the user needs a key or a number combination to unlock the locking means. Hereby can the hook system be used as a mooring including safeguard that the hook system or the vessel will not be stolen.

According to a further embodiment the hook system according to the invention is characterized in, that the locking means consists of a swivel bracket.

The hook can be designed with an extension which abuts the housing. The bracket is swung into the extension to engage the hook, so the hook is locked. The housing can be provided with an slot for a padlock immediately behind the bracket, so it can be closed safer. According to a further embodiment the hook system according to the invention characterized in, that the locking means is a displaceable collar.

The hook can be designed with an extension which abuts the housing. The collar is displaced towards the extension to engage the hook so that the hook is locked. The housing can be provided with a through opening which also passes through the collar, so that the hook system can be equipped with a padlock. The hook system can advantageously be used as boat hook to mooring/and of mooring of a vessel.

Further the hook system is advantageously used in connection catching fishing gear. By catching fishing gear as for example fishing nets, a rope in the outer edge of the fishing net, an eye in the fishing net or buoy which is connected with the net. Here is the hook system advantageously used, as a secure attachment to the net is achieved. The net can subsequently be hauled onboard either by using the hook system directly or by connecting a crane to the net. The hook system is easily released from the net or the net bag, when it is hauled onto the deck of the ship or possible even before the net is hauled on board.

Other alternative uses for the hook system could for example be in mountaineering equipment, where the hook can be released with one hand.

Drawings

The invention will be briefly described in the following with reference to the accompanied drawings, wherein

Fig. 1a is a side view of a first embodiment of the hook system according to the invention, provided with a shaft,

Fig. 1 b is a side view of another embodiment of the hook system according to the invention, provided with a telescopic shaft,

Fig. 2 is a detailed section view of the hook system according to the invention, in a first embodiment with an empty hook,

Fig. 3 is a section view of the hook system shown in Fig. 2 during displacement against an engagement position during passage of an object through . the orifice into the hook,

Fig. 4 is a section view of the hook system shown in Fig 2 in the locked position with the object inside the hook,

Fig. 5 is a section view of the hook system shown in Fig. 2 during displacement towards a release position,

Fig. 6 is a section view of the hook system shown in Fig. 2 shortly after the objects passage out through the orifice of the hook,

Fig. 7 is a detail section view of another embodiment of the hook system shown in Fig. 2 comprising locking means for retaining the hook in the locked position, the locking means in unlocked position,

Fig. 8 is a detail section view of the hook system shown in Fig. 7, with locking means for retaining the hook in the locked position, the locking means in locked position, and

Fig. 9 is an isometric detail view of a hook system according to the invention in a third embodiment, with modified design of the locking means.

The specification of the drawings identical or similar elements be designated with same reference numbers in the various figures. Thus, there will not be given an explanation of all details associated with each figure/embodiment. Detailed specification of the invention.

Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b is respectively a side view of a first and a second embodiment of a hook system 1. The hook system 1 can be used as a boat hook 100 ^' , 100 ^" in the shown embodiments.

The boat hook 100 ^' is provided with a hook system 1 including a rod 110, which serves as a handle and extends the reachability of the user. The boat hook 100 ^" in the second embodiment is also designed with a hook system comprising a rod 110. This rod is a telescopic rod which extends the users reach further, but where the rod 110 is shorter in the folded state than in the unfolded stand. The boat hook 100 ^' , 100 ^" can be provided with a line 120 which may be used for mooring, so that the boat hook 100 ^' , 100 ^" advantageously can be used as a part of the mooring of a vessel, where the hook system 1 is attached to an object 2, for example a haul line, a bollard, a buoy or another mooring object, and where the line is secured to the vessel. As the hook system 1 is releasa- ble, it is easy to un-moor without dangerous situations arise, where a crew member leans over the side of the vessel to release the moor.

Fig. 2-8 shows section views of a hook system 1 in a first embodiment. The figures show different situations during operation of the hook system 1.

I the following, the swing/turn directions referred to as being clockwise and counterclockwise. This must be understood in the orientation of the hook system 1 in Fig. 2-8. The skilled person will readily be able to negotiate terms relative to the hook system orientation.

The hook system 1 comprises a hook 3, a locking member 4 and a housing 5.

I The hook 3 is J-shaped with a shaft 6 and a bend section 7 and a peak 8. An orifice 9 is defined between the shaft 6 and the peak 8. The orifice 9 is adapted to an object 2 can pass into and out of the hook 3 in lateral direction. The locking member 4 is a pawl which is mounted to the edge of the orifice 9 One end of the locking member 4 is fitted to the end of the hook shaft 6, so that it can pivot between two extreme positions. The other end which is a free end 10, is shown in engagement with the inner side of the hook tip 8. The locking member 4 may swing into the hook 3 such that the orifice 9 is open and back to abutment with the hook tip 8 so that the orifice 9 is blocked. The locking member 4 is spring-influenced in a locking swing direction 1 1 , which is counter-clockwise.

The locking member 4 may alternatively be mounted to the housing 5.

When an object 2 presses against the locking member 4 from a position outside the hook 3 with a force which overcomes the spring force of the locking member, the locking member will swing into the hook to an open position. As the locking member's free end 10 is clear of the hook at the tip 8, there is formed a passage between the free end of the locking member 10 and the hook at the tip 8 through which the object 2 may pass into the hook 3 Subsequently passing the object 2 past the locking member's free end 10, after which the locking member 4 under the influence of the spring force will swing in the lock swing direction 11 into abutment with the hook at the tip 8 and a closed position. The orifice 9 is now blocked, so that the object 2 are prevented from passing out of the hook 3

The locking member 4 in the shown embodiment is formed by a torsion spring (see especially Fig. 9), so that the locking member 4 itself appears with a spring force in the lock swing direction 11 when it is swung in a clockwise direction. Alternatively, the locking member 4 can be designed with a separate spring arrangement. The housing 5 includes a hook axle 12. The hook 3 is fixed to the hook axle 12 and is pivotable around the hook axle 12. The hook 3 can pivot between a locking position in which the locking means 4 can be in abutment against the tip 8 on the hook and in a counterclockwise direction to a releasing position. The housing 5 is fitted with a latch stop 13, which has an abutment surface 14 of the locking member 4

When the hook 3 is pivoted in a counterclockwise direction from the locking position to the release position, the locking member 4 abuts against the abutment surface 14 of the locking stop, whereby the locking member 4 are prevented from rotating with the hook 3. Hereby the orifice 9 is opened, by forming a passage between the tip of the hook 8 and the free end 10 of the locking member 4, so that the object 2 can be released from the hook system 1 in the release position.

In the shown embodiment of the hook system 1 , the hook 3 comprises a spring means 15 which is arranged so that the hook 3 is spring influenced towards the locking position. The spring means 15 comprises a spring 16, which is a compression spring, and which is squeezed between a movable spring abutment surface 17 on a displaceable rod 18 and a fixed spring abutment surface 19 arranged in the housing 5.

The hook 3 is formed with a first hook stop 20 for the hook 3 in the locking position. The first hook stop 20 limits the hook pivoting clockwise so the hook 3 is stopped in the correct position for the locking position. The first stop hook 20 is formed on the housing 5 by an abutment surface 21 which cooperates with an extension 22 of the hook shank 6

The hook 3 is also formed with a second hook stop 23 of the hook in the release position. The second hook stop 23 limits the hook swinging

counterclockwise so that the hook 3 stops in the correct position for the release position. The second hook stop 23 is integrated in the spring member 15 as a maximum compression of the spring 16 The hook system 1 in the enclosed embodiment is provided with a rod 110 which is connected to the housing 5. A line 120 is drawn through the rod 110. The line 120 is connected to the hook via the housing 5 which is provided with a pin 130 which is wound with a loop on the line 120. The line 120 can be used to moor a vessel.

In Fig. 2 the hook system 1 is shown with an empty hook 3, where the object 2 is ready to be introduced through the orifice 9 of the hook. In Fig. 3 the object 2 is in abutment with the locking member 4, which is swings along its open position. A passage is formed between the tip 8 of the hook and the free end of the locking member. The object 2 is passing the orifice 9 through this passage. In Fig. 4 the object 2 has passed through the orifice into the hook 3. The locking member 4 is under influence of a spring force swung back to the locked position, which prevents that the object 2 can pass out through the orifice 9.

In Fig. 5 the object 2 is in abutment with the tip 8 of the hook. The object 2 implies the hook 3 with a force which makes the hook 3 swing against the release position. This is done by the user to manipulate the housing 5, optionally via the rod 110, so that the force is built up. The force must be sufficient to overcome the spring force of the spring means. The locking member 4 is in abutment against the latch stop 13 so that it does not swing with the hook 3. Hereby is formed a passage between the tip 8 of the hook and the free end 10 of the locking member, so that the object 2 can pass out through the orifice 9.

This appears from Fig. 6, where the object 2 passes out through the orifice 9. The hook 3 swings subsequently back to the locking position under action of the spring means 15 an is ready to receive an object 2.

The hook system 1 may be used in applications where a user by manipulating the housing, either directly or via a rod 110 (see Fig. 1a-b), which is connected to the housing, may generate a force which is counteracted by the object 2, so that the hook 3 opens.

For example such applications may be in use in connection with mooring/off- mooring of a vessel, use by a mountaineer/climber to grip on pegs, as the hook can be released with one hand.

Fig. 7 and fig. 8 shows a section view of the hook system in Fig. 2 with locking means 24 for locking the hook 3 in the locking position.

The locking means 24 comprises a displaceable collar 25 which cooperates with the extension of the hook shank 6. The collar 25 is displaceable along the rod 110 or the housing 5. In Fig. 7 the hook system is shown in unlocked position, where the collar 25 is displaced free of the extension 22. In this position the hook can tilt and be released.

In Fig. 8, the hook system is shown in locked position, where the collar 25 is displaced so it grips around the extension 22. In this position the hook 3 is prevented to tilt, the hook can ^' t be released.

The extension 22 is designed with a recess 28. The collar 25 comprises a locking spring 29. When the collar 25 is displaced longer towards the hook 3 than the position which is shown in Fig. 8, the locking spring 29 engages the recess 28. Hereby is the hook 3 locked more efficiently.

The locking spring 29 can be brought out of engagement with the recess 28 by a pull which exeeds the power of the locking spring against the recess 28.

The collar 25 may be located on a link of a telescopic rod. Preferably the outermost link. When the locking spring 29 is en engagement with the recess 28, the telescopic rod is furthermore locked. Fig. 9 is an isometric view of a hook system 1 in a second embodiment. The hook system 3 in Fig. 9 differs from the hook system 3 in Fig. 2-8 by another design of locking means 24.

The locking means 24 comprises a swivel bracket 26 attached to the housing 5. The bracket 26 can be swung into and out of engagement with the extension 22 of the hook 3.

The bracket 26 can be locked by putting a split pin or a padlock (not shown) through an opening 27 in the housing 5 so that swing og the bracket 26 out of engagement with the extension 22 is prevented.