Submarine cable trenching and installation vehicle - has on-board cable reel and drive mechanism for traction and trenching wheel

摘要

A tracked vehicle (1) suitable for seabed conditions contains a cable-reel (11) with cable guide and a trenching wheel (13). Trenching depth is preset depending on soil properties, the trenching wheel either freewheels or is rotated under on-board hydraulic power (24) depending on the cutting resistance encountered. Laying speed is controlled from a surface vessel (3) connected to the vehicle by an umblical cable (2). The cable reel rotates under hydraulic power controlled from the surface in proportion to vehicle speed and the cable tension required. The vehicle is designed to fit within a standard 40ft 1SO shipping container.