Autoreel/Autowind/Tether System

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design and functionality of a tether system intended to connect the sea surface to the seabed. Participants explore the feasibility of an auto-reeling mechanism that allows for depth adjustment and movement freedom, akin to a winch system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a tether system that can automatically adjust its length based on depth and movement, comparing it to a winch.
  • Another participant identifies the concept as similar to an anchor system, noting that traditional anchors require long cables to accommodate depth changes without needing constant adjustment.
  • A participant inquires about the possibility of creating an auto-reeling mechanism, questioning whether electric motors would be necessary for a 20-meter cord.
  • There is mention of electric winches being used for retrieving anchors, but concerns are raised about their limitations regarding freedom of movement.
  • One participant suggests that practical anchoring systems provide movement freedom through the weight of the anchor chain, potentially enhanced by additional components like a "chum" or "angel."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility and design of the proposed tether system, with no consensus reached on the best approach or the necessity of electric motors.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the limitations of current anchoring systems and the challenges of designing a new system that allows for both auto-reeling and freedom of movement. There are unresolved questions regarding the specific mechanics and components required for such a system.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in marine engineering, underwater tether systems, or anchoring technology may find this discussion relevant.

MrEnjay
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I am looking for a tether system so I can make a connection to the seabed from the sea surface. Does a system like these exist as I do not know what they are called or how would one make such a system.

The tether would need to auto adjust depending on the depth and movement to keep the tether relatively tight kind of like a winch but allowing freedom of movement on the other end.
 
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This is called an anchor. Due to the nature of the sea bed, anchors with tight cables tend to fail under the transient loads caused by surface waves so most anchor cables are very long (typically at least three times the depth) so there is no need to adjust the length for the relatively minor depth changes experienced in open sea.
 
Thanks for replying. It has to auto reel in similar to that of a vacuum cleaner cord or a tape measure. Length of cord must be about 20 metres plus. Is this possible? Or do I need electric motors for this?
 
What are you trying to install?
 
Electric winches are commonly used to retrieve anchors.
 
Yes but they do not allow freedom of movement and would seize when force is pulling cord away.
 
In practical anchoring systems freedom of movement is provided by the weight of the anchor chain. This may be augmented by using a "chum" or "angel".

Use a search engine to learn how anchoring systems work and why they work that way before you try to come up with a new design.
 
Ok I will do thanks.
 

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