The present disclosure pertains to the field of mooring of vessels. The present disclosure relates to a gangway system for a vessel and a vessel comprising the gangway system.

BACKGROUND

A gangway is narrow portable platform used as a passage by persons entering or leaving a vessel moored alongside a mooring point, such as a pier or a quay. The gangway is necessary for a safe transfer of a pilot and personnel to and from the vessel.

Typically, when a gangway for entering or leaving the vessel is rigged, personnel of the vessel must manually handle the gangway. This may for example comprise heavy lifting of the gangway, manually directing a gangway hanging from a crane in order to position the gangway in relation to the vessel and/or to the mooring point. Furthermore, the manual handling of the gangway may comprise jumping of the vessel or climbing of the vessel using a temporary access, such as a rope ladder, in order to reach a gangway being stored on land at the mooring point. This poses a risk of slipping, falling and or getting crushed by the gangway during the rigging procedure of the gangway.

The rigging of a gangway thus presents a danger to personnel handling the gangway during the rigging procedure.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, there is a need for a gangway solution, which mitigate, alleviate or address the shortcomings existing and provide a safe gangway rigging procedure.

A gangway system for a vessel is disclosed. The gangway system comprises a gangway and a base part. The gangway and the base part are movably arranged in relation to each other in a longitudinal direction of the gangway. The base part comprising a first set of gangway track rollers and a second set of gangway track rollers. The gangway comprises a first gangway track and optionally a second gangway track extending in the longitudinal direction of the gangway. The first set of gangway track rollers are configured to movably engage the first gangway track. The second set of gangway track rollers are configured to movably engage the second gangway track. In a retracted position of the base part in relation to the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers and/or the second set of gangway track rollers are in engagement with their respective gangway track. In a first extended position of the base part in relation to the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers is configured to disengage with the first gangway track and the second set of gangway track rollers is in engagement with the second gangway track, such that the gangway can pivot in relation to the base part around a second axis of the second set of gangway track rollers.

Further, a vessel comprising the gangway system according to this disclosure is disclosed.

It is an advantage of the present disclosure that the gangway can be remotely operated to move from a retracted position to an extended position, such that a rigging procedure of the gangway can be performed without manual handling of the gangway. Further, by configuring the first set of gangway track rollers to disengage with the first gangway track and configuring the second set of gangway track rollers to be in engagement with the second gangway track, the gangway can pivot in relation to the base part around an axis of the second set of gangway track rollers when the gangway is in the first extracted position. Thereby, when the gangway system is arranged on the vessel, the gangway can pivot in relation to the base part, such that the gangway system can compensate for changes in a distance between the vessel and the mooring point.

Further, the gangway system may be configured such that, in a second extended position, the second set of gangway track rollers is configured to disengage with the second gangway track and the first set of gangway track rollers is configured to be in engagement with the first gangway track. Thereby, one, such as a single, gangway system may be used on opposite sides of the vessel, such as on a starboard side or a port side of the vessel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art by the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates an example gangway system according to this disclosure,

Fig. 2 illustrates an example gangway for the gangway system according to this disclosure from a perspective view, Figs. 3A-C show the example gangway from a top view, a side view and a bottom view according to this disclosure,

Figs. 4A-B show cross-sectional views of the example gangway along a longitudinal axis of the gangway according to this disclosure,

Fig. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of the closed sections of the gangway tracks according to this disclosure,

Fig. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of the open sections of the gangway tracks according to this disclosure,

Fig. 6 illustrates an example base part for the gangway system according to this disclosure from a perspective view,

Figs. 7A-C show the example base part from a top view, a side view and an end view according to this disclosure,

Fig. 8 illustrates an example base guide rail for the gangway system according to this disclosure from a perspective view,

Figs. 9A-D show the example base guide rail according to this disclosure from a top view, a side view and a cross-sectional view, and

Figs. 10A-E illustrate an example gangway system during movement from a retracted position to an extended position according to this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various exemplary embodiments and details are described hereinafter, with reference to the figures when relevant. It should be noted that the figures may or may not be drawn to scale and that elements of similar structures or functions are represented by like reference numerals throughout the figures. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the disclosure or as a limitation on the scope of the disclosure.

In addition, an illustrated embodiment needs not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiments even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly described. The figures are schematic and simplified for clarity, and they merely show details which aid understanding the disclosure, while other details have been left out. Throughout, the same reference numerals are used for identical or corresponding parts.

A gangway system for a vessel is provided. The gangway system comprises a gangway and a base part. The gangway and the base part are movably, such as slidably, arranged in relation to each other in a longitudinal direction of the gangway. In other words, the base part may be moved in relation to the gangway along a longitudinal direction of the gangway, such as from a first end of the gangway to a second end of the gangway. The base part comprises a first set of gangway track rollers and a second set of gangway track rollers. The gangway comprises a first gangway track and a second gangway track extending in the longitudinal direction of the gangway. The first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are configured to movably engage a respective gangway track of the gangway. For example, the first set of gangway track rollers are configured to movably engage the first gangway track. The second set of gangway track rollers are configured to movably engage the second gangway track. A set of gangway track rollers herein means one or more gangway track rollers. The gangway track rollers movably engaging the gangway tracks herein means that the set of gangway track rollers can move in relation to the gangway tracks in a longitudinal direction of the gangway tracks but are restricted in movement by the gangway tracks in at least a radial direction and/or a lateral direction of the gangway track rollers. The first and second set of gangway track rollers may be configured to carry the weight of the gangway. In other words, the gangway track rollers movably engaging the gangway tracks herein may mean that the set of gangway track rollers are restricted/prevented from moving perpendicular to the engaged gangway.

In a retracted position of the base part in relation to the gangway, such as when the base part is arranged at a center of the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are in engagement with their respective gangway track. In the retracted position, a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers in relation to the gangway in a direction perpendicular to the gangway track may be restricted. The gangway tracks may for example support the gangway track rollers in a first and a second radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The second radial direction may be opposite the first radial direction. The first and the second radial direction of the gangway track rollers may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the gangway tracks. In one or more example gangway systems, the gangway tracks may in a direction parallel to a rotation axis of the set of gangway track rollers.

In a first extended position of the base part in relation to the gangway, such as at least when the base part is arranged at a first end of the gangway, the second set of gangway track rollers is configured to disengage with the second gangway track. The first set of gangway track rollers is configured to be in engagement with the first gangway track, such that the gangway can pivot in relation to the base part around a first axis of the first set of gangway track rollers. The first axis may be a rotation axis of the first gangway track rollers. The second axis may be a rotation axis of the second gangway track rollers. By allowing the gangway to pivot in relation to the base part, the gangway may adjust its angle to the base part in response to rising or falling of a vessel to which the gangway system is arranged due to changing tidal conditions. For example, if the water rises the distance from the deck of the vessel to for example a pier may increase, such that the gangway has to change its angle in relation to the base part to compensate for the change in distance.

In one or more example gangway systems, the first gangway track has a first open section and a first closed section. The first closed section may be configured to restrict a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers in relation to the first gangway track in a direction perpendicular to the first gangway track of the gangway, such as in a radial direction of the gangway track rollers comprised in the first set of gangway track rollers.

The length of the gangway may be dependent on the size of the vessel, the dimensions of the mooring point and/or tide conditions of the waters where the vessel is operated. In one or more example gangway systems, the length of the gangway may be equal to or shorter than a beam of the vessel, such as equal to or shorter than a distance between a port side and a starboard side of the vessel. A beam of the vessel may e.g., have a width in the range of 7 to 35 meter. A width of the gangway may, in one or more examples, be in the range of 0,6 to 3 meter.

The first closed section of the first gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a lateral support surface for guiding the first set of gangway track rollers in a lateral direction of the gangway track rollers. The first closed section of the first gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a first radial support surface for guiding the first set of gangway track rollers in a first radial direction of the gangway track rollers and a second radial support surface for guiding the first set of gangway track rollers in a second radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The first radial support surface and the second radial support surface may be arranged parallel to each other. The first radial support surface and the second radial support surface may be arranged perpendicular to the lateral support surface, such that the first radial support surface and the second radial support surface form a first and a second flange extending from the lateral support surface. The lateral support surface, the first radial support surface and the second radial support surface may thus form a track, such as a C-shaped or U-shaped track, in which the gangway track rollers are guided. In one or more example gangway systems, the first closed section of the first gangway track is C-shaped.

The first open section may be configured to allow a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers in relation to the first gangway track in the direction perpendicular to the first gangway track, such as in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the first gangway track. The first open section of the first gangway track may be configured to support, such as abut, the first set of gangway track rollers in the first radial direction of the gangway track rollers, such as in the first direction perpendicular to the first gangway tracks, but allow the first set of gangway track rollers to move unrestrictedly in relation to the first gangway tracks in the second radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The first open section may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a lateral support surface for guiding the first set of gangway track rollers in the lateral direction of the gangway track rollers. The first open section of the first gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a first radial support surface for guiding the first set of gangway track rollers in a first radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The first radial support surface may correspond to the first radial support surface of the first closed section of the first gangway track. The first radial support surface may be arranged perpendicular to the lateral support surface, such that the first radial support surface forms a first flange extending from the lateral support surface. The lateral support surface and the first radial support surface may thus form a track, such as an L-shaped track, in which the gangway track rollers of the first set of gangway track rollers are guided. Contrary to the first closed section of the first gangway track, the first open section of the first gangway track does not comprise a second radial support surface. The first open section of the first gangway track may therefore not restrict movement of the first set of gangway track rollers in the second radial direction, such that the first open section enables the first set of gangway track rollers to move unrestrictedly in relation to the first gangway track in the second radial direction of the first set of gangway track rollers. In one or more example gangway systems, the first closed section of the first gangway track may extend from a center section of the gangway towards a first end of the gangway. The first open section of the first gangway track may extend from the center section of the gangway towards a second end of the gangway. The center section may herein be seen as a section of the gangway arranged around the center of the gangway, such as around a longitudinal center of the gangway. In one or more example gangway systems, the first closed section of the first gangway track may extend across the longitudinal center of the gangway.

In one or more example gangway systems, when the base part is in a second extended position in relation to the gangway, such as when the base part is arranged at a second end of the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers is configured to disengage with the first gangway track. The second set of gangway track rollers may be configured to be in engagement with the second gangway track, such that the gangway can pivot in relation to the base part around a second axis of the second set of gangway track rollers.

In one or more example gangway systems, the second gangway track has a second open section and a second closed section. The second closed section may be configured to restrict a movement of the second set of gangway track rollers in a direction perpendicular to the second gangway track of the gangway, such as in a radial direction of the gangway track rollers comprised in the second set of gangway track rollers.

The length of the closed sections of the first gangway track and/or the second gangway track may be selected such that in the retracted position, the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are in engagement with a respective closed section of the gangway tracks. A length of the closed section, such as the first closed section of the first gangway track and/or a second closed section of the second gangway track, may be approximately half the length of the respective gangway track. In other words, in one or more example gangway systems, the length of the closed section of the gangway tracks may be in the range of 40-60% of the total length of the gangway tracks. In one or more example gangway systems, the length of the closed section of the gangway track may be longer than the length of the open sections of the gangway track. Thereby, the first closed section of the first gangway track and the second closed section of the second gangway track may overlap in the center of the gangway. In one or more example gangway systems, the length of the closed section of the gangway track may be shorter than the length of the open sections of the gangway track. Thereby, the first open section of the first gangway track and the second open section of the second gangway track may overlap in the center of the gangway. In the example where the first open section and the second open section overlap in the center of the gangway, the distance between the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers, such as a distance between the first rotation axis of the first gangway track rollers and the second axis of the second set of gangway track rollers, may be selected such that the distance bridges the gap between the first closed section of the first gangway track and the second closed section of the second gangway track when the base part is arranged in the retracted position. Thereby, the first set of gangway track rollers and the second gangway track rollers may simultaneously be respectively in engagement with the first closed section of the first gangway track and the second closed section of the second gangway track. The length of the second gangway track and the closed and open sections of the second gangway track may be the same as for the first gangway track.

The total length of the gangway may be selected such that it allows the gangway to connect the deck of the vessel with a mooring point at a gangway angle allowing a person to climb the gangway to enter the vessel, both in highest and lowest tide conditions. The gangway angle may in one or more examples be less than 60°, such as less than 45°.

The total length of the gangway tracks may, in one or more example gangway systems, be in the range of 2,5-10 meters.

The second closed section of the second gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a lateral support surface for guiding the second set of gangway track rollers in a lateral direction of the gangway track rollers. The second closed section of the second gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a first radial support surface for guiding the second set of gangway track rollers in a first radial direction of the gangway track rollers and a second radial support surface for guiding the second set of gangway track rollers in a second radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The first radial support surface and the second radial support surface may be arranged parallel to each other. The first radial support surface and the second radial support surface may be arranged perpendicular to the lateral support surface, such that the first radial support surface and the second radial support surface form a first and a second flange extending from the lateral support surface. The lateral support surface, the first radial support surface and the second radial support surface may thus form a track, such as a C-shaped or U-shaped track, in which the gangway track rollers are guided. In one or more example gangway systems, the second closed section of the second gangway track is C-shaped. The second open section may be configured to allow a movement of the second set of gangway track rollers in relation to the second gangway track in the direction perpendicular to the second gangway track, such as in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the second gangway track. The second open section of the second gangway track may be configured to support, such as abut, the second set of gangway track rollers in the first radial direction of the gangway track rollers, such as in the first direction perpendicular to the first gangway tracks, but allow the second set of gangway track rollers to move unrestrictedly in relation to the second gangway track in the second radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The second open section may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a lateral support surface for guiding the second set of gangway track rollers in the lateral direction of the gangway track rollers. The second open section of the second gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems comprise a first radial support surface for guiding the first set of gangway track rollers in a first radial direction of the gangway track rollers. The first radial support surface may correspond to the first radial support surface of the first closed section of the second gangway track. The first radial support surface may be arranged perpendicular to the lateral support surface, such that the first radial support surface forms a first flange extending from the lateral support surface. The lateral support surface and the first radial support surface may thus form a track, such as an L-shaped track, in which the gangway track rollers of the second set of gangway track rollers are guided. Contrary to the second closed section of the second gangway track, the second open section of the second gangway track does not comprise a second radial support surface. The second open section of the first gangway track may therefore not restrict movement of the second set of gangway track rollers in the second radial direction, such that the second open section enables the second set of gangway track rollers to move unrestrictedly in relation to the second gangway track in the second radial direction of the second set of gangway track rollers.

In one or more example gangway systems, the second closed section of the second gangway track may extend from a center section of the gangway towards the second end of the gangway. The second open section of the second gangway track may extend from the center section towards the first end of the gangway. The center section may herein be seen as a section of the gangway arranged around the center of the gangway, such as around a longitudinal center of the gangway. In one or more example gangway systems, the second closed section of the second gangway track may extend across the longitudinal center of the gangway. In other words, when the base part is arranged at the first longitudinal end of the gangway, the second set of gangway track rollers may be located in the second open section. When the base part is arranged at the second longitudinal end of the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers is located in the first open section. When the base part is arranged at the center section of the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers is arranged in the first closed section and the second set of gangway track rollers is arranged in the second closed section.

The first gangway track and the second gangway track may be arranged parallel to and offset from each other. The first gangway track may be arranged further away from the longitudinal center axis of the gangway than the second gangway track. In other words, a width of the first gangway track may be wider than a width of the second gangway track.

In other words, the first gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems be arranged at a first gangway track distance from the longitudinal center axis of the gangway. The second gangway track may in one or more example gangway systems be arranged at a second gangway track distance from the longitudinal center axis of the gangway. The second gangway track distance may be different than the first gangway track distance. The first gangway track distance may in one or more examples be in the range of 0,6-3 meters. The second gangway track distance may in one or more examples be in the range of 0,4-2, 8 meters.

In one or more example gangway systems, the first closed section of the first gangway track and the second closed section of the second gangway track may overlap in the center section of the gangway. By configuring the first closed section and the second closed section so that they overlap in the center section of the gangway, the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers may simultaneously be located in the first closed section and the second closed section respectively. Thereby, when the base part is arranged at the center section of the gangway, both the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are restricted from disengaging the first and the second gangway tracks respectively. Hence, when the base part is arranged at the center section of the gangway, the gangway is prevented from pivoting in relation to the base part.

In one or more example gangway systems, the first set of gangway track rollers are arranged at a first end of the base part and the second set of gangway track rollers are arranged at a second end of the base part. The first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers may thus be arranged at opposite ends of the base part. The first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers may be arranged parallel to and offset from each other. The first set of gangway track rollers, such as the gangway track rollers of the first set of gangway track rollers, may be arranged further away from a longitudinal center axis of the base part than the second set of gangway track rollers, such as the gangway track rollers of the second set of gangway track rollers. In other words, a first roller distance between two first gangway track rollers may be larger than a second roller distance between two second gangway track rollers. The first roller distance may in one or more example gangway systems correspond to the first gangway track distance from a longitudinal center axis of the base part. The second roller distance may in one or more example gangway systems correspond to the second gangway track distance from the longitudinal center axis of the base part. The second gangway track distance may be different than the first gangway track distance. In other words, the first set of gangway track rollers may have the same width as the first gangway track and the second set of gangway track rollers may have the same width as the second gangway track.

In one or more example gangway systems, the gangway system comprises a first drive system for moving the gangway in relation to the base part. The first drive system may be configured to move the base part between the first end of the gangway and the second end of the gangway. The first drive system may comprise a first drive motor, such as an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, for generating a driving force. The first drive system may comprise a first transmission for translating the driving force of the first drive motor to a movement of the gangway in relation to the base part. The first transmission may comprise a chain drive, a belt drive and/or a gear drive. In one or more example gangway system, the first drive system may be configured to move the base part in relation to the set of base guide rails. The first drive system may for example comprise appropriate gearing, which allows the first drive system to first move the base part in relation to the set of base guide rails and once the base part reaches a certain position along the set of base guide rails proceed with moving the gangway in relation to the base part.

In one or more examples, the gangway system may comprise a set of base guide rails for guiding the base part. The set of base guide rails may be configured to be arranged on a vessel, such as being mounted to a vessel, for example by being bolted and or welded to the vessel. The set of base guide rails may in one or more example gangway systems be configured to be arranged on a main deck of a vessel. In one or more example gangway systems the set of base guide rails are configured to be mounted perpendicularly or parallel to a longitudinal axis, such as a fore-aft axis, of the vessel.

The base part may in one or more examples comprise a set of guide rail rollers. The set of base guide rails may in one or more examples be configured to movably receive the set of guide rail rollers. The guide rail rollers may be rotatably arranged within the base guide rails, such that the base part can roll along the base guide rails between a first end and a second end of the base guide rails. The base part may thus be movably arranged in relation to the base guide rails in a longitudinal direction of the base guide rails.

The set of base guide rails may comprise a main section and an end section. The end section of the set of base guide rails may be arranged at an angle to the main section. By arranging the end section of the set of base guide rails at an angle to the main section, the base part can be configured to tilt in relation to the main section of the guide rails upon reaching the end section. The angle of the end section to the main section of the base guide rails may be chosen such that a set of gangway roller wheels are able to roll along the mooring point when the gangway is extracted towards the mooring point at the angle of the end sections of the base guide rails and the set of gangway roller wheels arranged on the gangway make contact with the mooring point. In one or more example gangway systems, the angle of the end section of the base guide rails to the main section of the base guide rails may be in the range of 0-80°, such as in the range of 15-60°. The set of base guide rails may, in one or more examples, comprise a first end section and a second end section arranged on opposite ends of the main section. The length of the base guide rails from a distal end of the first end section to a distal end of the second end section may in one or more examples correspond to a width of the vessel to which the gangway system is mounted, such as to a width of the vessel at the deck. The length of the main section may be in the range of 60-97% of the length of the base guide rails from the distal end of the first end section to a distal end of the second end section. The length of the end sections may be in the range of 3-40% of the length of the base guide rails from a distal end of a first end section to a distal end of a second end section.

In one or more example gangway systems, the gangway system comprises a second drive system for moving the base part in relation to the base guide rails. The second drive system may be configured to move the base part between the first end section of the base guide rails and the second end section of the base guide rails. The second drive system may comprise a second drive motor, such as an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, for generating a driving force. The second drive system may comprise a second transmission for translating the driving force of the second drive motor to a movement of the base part in relation to the base guide rails. The second transmission may comprise a chain drive, a belt drive and/or a gear drive.

The first drive system and/or the second drive system may be remotely operated, such as from a bridge or a wheelhouse of a vessel, and/or from a control center on land.

In one or more example gangway systems, the gangway comprises a first set of gangway roller wheels arranged at a first end of the gangway. In one or more example gangway systems, the gangway comprises a second set of gangway roller wheels arranged at the second end of the gangway. In one or more example gangway systems, the first set of gangway roller wheels and/or the second set of gangway roller wheels are configured to laterally engage the base guide rails, such that the gangway is restricted from rotating in relation to the base guide rails. The base guide rails may provide a lateral support to the gangway during storage of the gangway and/or during movement of the base part along the base guide rails. Thereby external forces acting on the gangway, such as forces from wind or waves, may be absorbed by the base guide rails, such that a rotation of the gangway in relation to the base part and/or the base guide rails is prevented.

In one or more examples, the gangway system comprises a locking system for locking the gangway to the base guide rails when the gangway is in a retracted position. In one or more example gangway system, the locking system may be a brake comprised in the first drive motor of the first drive system and/or the second drive motor of the second drive system. In one or more examples, the locking system may comprise a locking pin for locking the gangway to the base guide rails and/or to the base part. The locking pin may in one or more examples be manually operated. In one or more example, locking pin may be operated, such as engaged and/or released remotely. The locking pin may e.g., be remotely operated, such as part of a cycle for moving the gangway in relation to the base part and/or the base guide rails.

A vessel is further disclosed comprising the gangway system according to this disclosure. The gangway system may be arranged on a main deck of the vessel. In one or more example vessels, the gangway system may be arranged such that an end section of the base guide rails faces a side, such as a starboard side, a port side, a stern or a of the vessel. In one or more example vessels, the gangway system may be arranged such that opposite end sections of the base guide rails face opposite sides, such as a starboard side and a port side, of the vessel. The gangway of the gangway system may thus be movable arranged between a starboard and a port side of the vessel. In one or more example vessels, the gangway system may be arranged such that the end sections of the base guide rails face opposite sides, such as a fore and a stern of the vessel.

Fig. 1 illustrates an example gangway system 1 according to this disclosure arranged on a main deck of a vessel 100. The example gangway system 1 comprises the gangway 10, the base part 20 and the base guide rails 30. The gangway 10 is movably arranged to the base part 20 in a longitudinal direction of the gangway 10, such that the gangway 10 can move, such as slide in relation to the base part 20. The base part 20 is movably arranged to the one or more gangway rails 30, such that the base part 20 can move, such as slide, along the base guide rails 30. In the example gangway system shown in Fig. 1 the gangway 10 and the base guide rails 30 are arranged with their respective longitudinal axis arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the vessel 100, such that a first end section of the base guide rails 30 is arranged on a first side of the vessel 100, such as on a starboard side of the vessel 100, and that a second end section of the base guide rails 30 is arranged on a second side of the vessel, such as on a port side of the vessel 100. Thereby, the base part 20 can be moved to the side of the vessel 100 by sliding on the base guide rails 30, from where the gangway 10 can be extended towards a mooring point, such as a quay or a dock, by sliding on top of the base part 20, to allow persons entering or leaving the vessel when the vessel is moored.

Fig. 2 illustrates an example gangway 10 of the gangway system 10 according to this disclosure, seen from a perspective view. The gangway 10 comprises a first gangway track 11 A and a second gangway track 11 B (not shown from the perspective of Fig. 2) extending in the longitudinal direction of the gangway 10. The first gangway track 11 A is configured to movably engage with a first set of gangway track rollers of the base part and the second gangway track 11B is configured to movable engage with a second set of gangway track rollers of the base part 20. The gangway 10 comprises a first set of gangway roller wheels 15A arranged at a first end of the gangway 10 and a second set of gangway roller wheels 15B arranged at the second end of the gangway 10. The gangway roller wheels may be configured to contact the mooring point, such as the quay or the dock, when the gangway is in the extended position. The first set of gangway roller wheels 15A are configured to contact the mooring point when the gangway is extended towards a first side of the vessel, such as towards a starboard side of the vessel. The second set of gangway roller wheels 15B are configured to contact the mooring point when the gangway is extended towards a second side of the vessel, such as towards a port side of the vessel. The first and the second set of gangway roller wheels 15A, 15B are configured to allow the gangway to roll back and forth when the vessel moves in relation to the mooring point, such as when the vessel rises or falls due to tidal conditions of the sea. The first and the second set of gangway roller wheels 15A, 15B may further be configured to laterally abut the base guide rails 30, in order to prevent a rotation of the gangway 10 in relation to the base part 20 and/or the base guide rails 30. The gangway 10 may further comprise one or more handrails 14 for providing support and safety to a person entering or leaving the vessel via the gangway.

Fig. 3A shows a top view of the example gangway 10. The gangway 10 has a center axis X _CG extending in a longitudinal direction of the gangway 10. The first set of gangway roller wheels 15A and the second set of gangway roller wheels 15B are arranged at opposite ends of the gangway 10. The gangway roller wheels of the first set of gangway roller wheels 15A and the gangway roller wheels of the second set of gangway roller wheels 15B may be arranged at equal distances from the center axis X _CG In one or more example gangways 10, the distance between an inner lateral surface of the gangway roller wheels of each of the first and the second set of gangway wheels 15A, 15B may be equal to an outer distance between a first and a second base guide rail of the gangway system 1. In one or more example gangways 10, the distance between an outer lateral surface of the gangway roller wheels of each of the first and the second set of gangway wheels 15A, 15B may be equal to an inner distance between a first and a second base guide rail of the gangway system 1 . Thereby, the inner and/or outer lateral surface of the gangway roller wheels may respectively abut an outer and/or inner surface of the first and/or the second base guide rails of the gangway system, thereby generating a lateral support of the gangway 10, which may prevent a rotation of the gangway 10 in relation to the base part 20 and/or the base guide rails 30. The gangway 10 may have a length LGW in the longitudinal direction. The length L _GW of the gangway 10 may be dependent on the size of the vessel to which the gangway system is mounted, the dimensions of the mooring point and/or tide conditions of the waters where the vessel is operated. In one or more example gangway systems, the length of the gangway 10 may be equal to or shorter than the beam of the vessel, such as equal to or shorter than a distance between the port side and the starboard side of the vessel. Fig. 3B shows a bottom view of the example gangway 10. The example gangway 10 comprises the first gangway track 11 A and the second gangway track 11 B extending in the longitudinal direction of the gangway 10. The first gangway track 11A and the second gangway track 11 B are arranged parallel to each other. The first gangway track 11 A and the second gangway track 11 B are arranged parallel to the center axis XCG of the gangway 10. The first gangway tracks 11 A and the second gangway tracks 11 B are offset from each other, such as arranged at different distances from the center axis X _CG of the gangway 10. In the example gangway 10 shown in Fig. 3B, the first gangway track 11A is arranged further away from the center axis X _CG than the second gangway track. In other words, the width of the first gangway track 11 A may be wider than the width of the second gangway track 11 B. The first gangway track 11A has a first open section 12A and a first closed section 13A.

The first gangway track 11 A comprises a first open section 12A and a first closed section 13A. The first closed section 13A of the first gangway track 11 A extends from a center section of the gangway 10 towards the first end of the gangway 10. The first closed section 13A is configured to restrict a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A in a direction perpendicular to the first gangway track 11 B of the gangway 10. The first open section 12A is configured to allow a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A in relation to the first gangway track 11B in the direction perpendicular to the second gangway track 11 B, such as in the direction of the view of Fig. 3B. The first open section 12A of the first gangway track 11 A extends from the center section towards a second end of the gangway 10. The center section of the gangway 10 may herein be a section of the gangway 10 arranged around the longitudinal center of the gangway 10.

The second gangway track 11 B has a second open section 12B and a second closed section 13B. The second closed section 13B is configured to restrict a movement of the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B in a direction perpendicular to the second gangway track 11 B of the gangway 10. The second open section 12B is configured to allow a movement of the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B in relation to the second gangway track 11 B in the direction perpendicular to the second gangway track 11 B.

The second closed section 13B of the second gangway track 11 B extends from the center section of the gangway 10 towards the second end of the gangway 10. The second open section 12B of the second gangway track 11 B extends from the center section of the gangway 10 towards the first end of the gangway 10. In other words, the open section 12A of the first gangway track 11 A is arranged on the same side of the gangway 10 as the closed section 13B of the second gangway track 11B. Similarly, the open section 12B of the second gangway track 11 B is arranged on the same side of the gangway 10 as the closed section 13A of the first gangway track 11A.

The first closed section 13A of the first gangway track 11 A and the second closed section 13B of the second gangway track 11 B overlap in the center section of the gangway 10, such that when the base part 20 is arranged at the center section of the gangway 10 both the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are arranged in the respective closed section of the first and the second gangway tracks 11A,

11B.

Fig. 3C shows a side view of the example gangway according to this disclosure. The gangway 10 comprises a first end section of which a cross-sectional view in the cutting plane A-A will be discussed in further detail with regards to Fig. 4A, a center section of which a cross-sectional view in the cutting plane B-B will be discussed in further detail with regards to Fig. 4B and a second end section of which a cross sectional view in the cutting plane C-C will be discussed in further detail with regards to Fig. 4C.

Fig. 4A shows a cross-sectional view of the first end of the example gangway 10 of Fig. 3A-3C seen in the cutting plane A-A along the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10. As can be seen in Fig. 4A, the first gangway track 11A and the second gangway track 11B are arranged parallel to each other. The first gangway track 11A and the second gangway track 11 B are arranged offset from each other, such as at different distances from the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10. In the example gangway, the second gangway track 11 B is arranged closer to the longitudinal center axis XCG than the first gangway track 11A. At the first end of the gangway, the first gangway track 11A has the first closed section 13A and the second gangway track has the second open section 12B. Hence, when the base part is located at the first end of the gangway 10 the first set of gangway track rollers of the base part are restricted by the first closed section 13A to move in relation to the gangway 10 in a direction perpendicular to the first gangway track 11 A. Simultaneously, the second set of gangway track rollers of the base part are arranged in the second open section 12B of the second gangway track 11B and may thus move out of the second gangway track 11B in direction perpendicular to the second gangway track 11 B. Thereby, the second gangway track rollers may release from the second gangway track 11 B which allows the base part to pivot in relation to the gangway 10 around a first axis of the first set of gangway roller wheels arranged in the first closed section 13A.

Fig. 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the center section of the example gangway 10 of Fig. 3A-3C seen in the cutting plane B-B along the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10. In the center section the first closed section 13A of the first gangway track 11 A and the second closed section 13B of the second gangway track 11 B overlap. By arranging the first closed section 13A and the second closed section 13B so that they overlap in the center section of the gangway 10, the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are simultaneously located in the first closed section and the second closed section respectively. Thereby, when the base part 20 is arranged at the center section of the gangway 10, both the first set of gangway track rollers and the second set of gangway track rollers are restricted from disengaging the first and the second gangway tracks 11A, 11B respectively. Hence, when the base part 20 is arranged at the center section of the gangway 10, the gangway 10 and the base part 20 are prevented from pivoting in relation to each other.

Fig. 4C shows a cross-sectional view of the second end of the example gangway 10 of Fig. 3A-3C seen in the cutting plane C-C along the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10. As can be seen in Fig. 4C, at the second end of the gangway, the first gangway track 11 A has the first open section 12A and the second gangway track has the second closed section 13B. Hence, when the base part 20 is located at the second end of the gangway 10 the second set of gangway track rollers of the base part are restricted to move in relation to the gangway 10 in a direction perpendicular to the first gangway track 11A by the second closed section 13B, such as in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10. Simultaneously, the first set of gangway track rollers of the base part 20 are arranged in the first open section 12A of the first gangway track 11A and may thus move out of the first gangway track 11A in the direction perpendicular to the first gangway track 11 A, such as in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10. Thereby, the first gangway track rollers may release from the first gangway track 11 A which allows the base part 20 to pivot in relation to the gangway 10 around a second axis of the second set of gangway roller wheels arranged in the second closed section 13B.

Fig. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of an example closed section of a gangway track according to this disclosure, such as the first closed section 13A of the first gangway track 11 A and/or the second closed section 13B of the second gangway track 11 B. In the example shown in Fig. 5A, a gangway track roller 21 A, 21 B out of the set of gangway track rollers is depicted in the closed section 13A, 13B. The example closed section 13A, 13B comprises a lateral support surface 17 for guiding the gangway track roller 21 A, such as the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and/or the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B, in a lateral direction of the gangway track rollers. The closed section 13A, 13B further comprises a first radial support surface 16A for guiding the gangway track rollers of the first and/or second set of gangway track rollers in a first radial direction R1 of the gangway track rollers and a second radial support surface 16B for guiding the gangway track rollers in a second radial direction R2 of the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B. The first radial direction R1 is opposite the second radial direction R1 . The example first radial support surface 16A and the second radial support surface 16B are arranged parallel to each other and perpendicular to the lateral support surface 17. The first radial support surface 16A and the second radial support surface 16B may thus form a first and a second flange extending perpendicularly from the lateral support surface 17. The lateral support surface 17, the first radial support surface 16A and the second radial support surface 16B may thus form a track, such as a C-shaped or U-shaped track, in which the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B are guided. Hence, when the gangway track rollers 21 A,

21 B are located in the closed section 13A, 13B of the respective gangway track 11 A, 11 B, the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B are restricted from moving in the first radial direction R1 and in the second radial direction R2.

Fig. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of an example open section of the gangway track according to this disclosure, such as the first open section 12A of the first gangway track 11A and/or the second open section 12B of the second gangway track 11 B. The open section 12A, 12B comprises the lateral support surface 17, for guiding the gangway track rollers in the lateral direction L of the gangway track rollers. The open section 12A, 12B comprises the first radial support surface 16A for guiding the gangway track rollers 21 A,

21 B in the first radial direction R1 . Hence, when the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B are arranged in the open section, the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B can only carry a load of the gangway 10 in one direction, such as in the first radial direction R1 of the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B. The first radial support surface 16A may correspond to the first radial support surface 16A of the closed section 13A, 13B. In other words, the first radial support surface 16A may continuously extend across the closed section 13A, 13B and the open section 12A, 12B of the respective gangway tracks 11 A, 11 B. The first radial support surface 16A is arranged perpendicular to the lateral support surface 17, such that the first radial support surface 16A forms a first flange extending from the lateral support surface 17. The lateral support surface 17 and the first radial support surface 16A thus form a track, such as an L-shaped track, in which the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B are guided. Contrary to the closed section of the gangway track, the open section of the gangway track does not comprise a second radial support surface. The open section 12A, 12B of the gangway track does therefore not restrict movement of the gangway track rollers in the second radial direction R2. The open section 12A, 12B enables the gangway track rollers to move unrestricted in relation to the gangway track in the second radial direction R2 of the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B. The open section 12A, 12B of the gangway tracks is thus configured to allow a movement of the gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B in relation to the gangway track in a direction perpendicular to the gangway track 11 A, 11 B, such as in the radial direction R2 of the gangway roller wheels.

Fig. 6 illustrates an example base part 20 for the gangway system 1 according to this disclosure from a perspective view. The example base part 20 comprises a main body 24, a first set of gangway track rollers 21 A arranged at a first end 22A of the base part 20 and a second set of gangway track rollers 21 B arranged at a second end 22B of the base part 20. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A is configured to movably engage the first gangway track 11 A. The second set of gangway track rollers 21 B is configured to movably engage the second gangway track 11 B. When the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A are arranged in the first gangway track 11A and/or the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged in the second gangway track 11 B, the gangway track rollers are configured to roll along the respective gangway track in a longitudinal direction of the gangway track. The example base part 20 shown in Fig. 6 comprises a set of base guide rail rollers 23 configured to movably engage with the base guide rails 30. In the example base part 20 shown in Fig. 6, the guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers are arranged at the first end 22A and the second end 22B of the base guide part. The guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers 23 may be arranged at the same distance from a center axis XCB of the base part 20. When the base guide rail rollers 23 are arranged in the base guide rail, the base guide rail rollers 23 are configured to roll along and follow the base guide rail in a longitudinal direction. The base part 20 is thus configured to move in relation to the base guide rails by means of the set of base guide rail rollers 23 and to move in relation to the gangway 10 by means of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B. The base part 20 may thus act as a sled for moving the gangway 10 in relation to the base guide rails 30. In other words, the base part 20 may act as a trolley for carrying the gangway 10 along the base guide rails 30. Fig. 7A shows the example base part 20 of Fig. 6 from a top view, such as in a view towards a gangway facing side 25 of the base part 20, according to this disclosure. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A are arranged at the first end 22A of the base part 20 and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged at a second end 22B of the base part 20, hence the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged at opposite ends of the base part 20 in a longitudinal direction of the base part 20. The base part 20 may have a length LBP in the longitudinal direction. The length LBP may be selected such that the distance between the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B bridge a gap between the first closed section 13A and the second closed section 13B of the gangway tracks 11 A, 11 B when the base part 20 is in a retracted position in relation to the gangway 10. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged parallel to each other, such that a rolling direction of the first and second set of gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B is the same. In other words, a lateral surface of the first and second set of gangway track rollers 21 A, 21 B are arranged parallel to each other. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are offset from each other. The first and second set of gangway track rollers being offset from each other means, that they are arranged at different distances from the center axis XCB of the base part 20. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A are arranged at a first distance D1 from the center axis XCB, while the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged at a second distance D2 from the center axis XCB. In the example gangway 10 shown in Fig. 7A, the distance D1 is larger than the distance D2, such that the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A is arranged further away from the center axis XCB than the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B. In other words, the width of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A may be wider than the width of the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B. In the example base part shown in Fig. 7A, the distance of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A form the center axis XCB corresponds to the distance of the first gangway track 11 A from the center axis XCG of the gangway. Correspondingly, the distance of the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B form the center axis XCB corresponds to the distance of the second gangway track 11 B from the center axis XCG of the gangway. In the example base part 20 shown in Fig. 7A, the guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers 23 are arranged at a third distance D3 from the center axis XCB of the base part 20. In the example base part 20 shown in Fig. 7A the third distance D3 is larger than the first distance D1. The third distance may be larger than the width of the main body 24, such that the guide rail rollers 23 are arranged on an outside of the main body 24. By arranging the set of guide rail rollers 23 outside of the main body 24, the guide rail rollers 23 may engage the base guide rails 30, while the main body 24 is arranged within an inner width of the base guide rails 30. This allows the base part 20 to follow the base guide rails 30 from the main section of the base guide rails 30 to the end sections of the base guide rails 30 which may be arranged at an angle to the main section of the base guide rails 30. This prevents the main body 24 from bottoming out on the base guide rails 30 when the base part 20 moves from the main section to the angled end sections.

Fig. 7B show the example base part 20 from a side view according to this disclosure. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are offset from the set of guide rail rollers 23 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis X _CB of the base part 20. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are mounted closer to the gangway facing side 25 of the base part 20 than the guide rail rollers 23. The gangway facing side 25 of the base part 20 corresponds to the upper side of the base part in Fig. 7B. The guide rail rollers 23 are mounted closer to a base guide rail facing side 26 of the base part 20 than the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B. The base guide rail facing side 26 of the base part 20 corresponds to the lower side of the base part in Fig. 7B. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A have a first rotation axis X1 and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B have a second rotation axis X2. When the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged in the second open section 12B, the first rotation axis X1 may act as a pivot point for the base part 20 in relation to the gangway 10. When the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A are arranged in the first open section 12A, the second rotation axis X2 may act as a pivot point for the base part 20 in relation to the gangway 10.

Fig. 7C show the example base part from an end view, such as a longitudinal end view, according to this disclosure. As can be seen in Fig. 7C, the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are offset from the set of guide rail rollers 23 in a direction perpendicular to the center axis X _CB of the base part 20. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are mounted closer to the gangway facing side 25 of the base part 20 than the guide rail rollers 23. The gangway facing side 25 of the base part 20 corresponds to the upper side of the base part in Fig. 7B. The first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are arranged so that they protrude over the gangway facing side 25 of the base part 20, such that the gangway rests on the first and second set of gangway track rollers 21 B without contacting the base part 20. The guide rail rollers 23 are arranged closer to the base guide rail facing side 26 of the base part 20 than the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B. The guide rail rollers 23 may be arranged so that they protrude over the base guide rail facing side 26 of the base part 20.

Fig. 8 illustrates an example set of base guide rails 30 for the gangway system according to this disclosure from a perspective view. In the example set of base guide rails 30 shown in Fig. 8, the set of base guide rails 20 comprises two base guide rails 30. The set of base guide rails 30 are configured to be mounted to a vessel 100, such as to a deck of the vessel 100. The example set of base guide rails 30 of Fig. 8 comprise a main section 30A and two end sections 30B arranged at respective ends of the main section 30A. The set of base guide rails 30 is configured to movably receive the set of guide rail rollers 23 of the base part for guiding the base part 20 along the base guide rails 30. The set of base guide rails 30 are configured to allow the base part 20 to move between the two end sections 30B via the main section 30A.

Figs. 9A shows the example set of base guide rails of Fig. 8 from a side view, such as a view perpendicular to a longitudinal center axis XCGR. The set of base guide rails 30 comprises the main section 30A and two end sections 30B arranged at respective ends of the main section 30A. The two end sections 30B are connected to the main section 30A via a respective curved section. The curved sections allow the guide rail rollers 23 to transition from the straight main section 30A to the end sections 30B arranged at an angle to the main section 30A. The angled end sections 30B of the base guide rails are configured to cause the base part 20 to tilt in relation to the main section 30A when it reaches either of the end sections 30B of the set of base guide rails 30.

Figs. 9B show the example set of base guide rails according to this disclosure from a top down view. The two base guide rails 30 of the example set of base guide rails 30 are arranged parallel to each other and at a distance, such as a base guide rail distance, from each other. The distance between the two base guide rails of the set of base guide rails 30 may be selected such that it is wider than the width of the main body 24 of the base part 20. This prevents the main body 24 of the base part 20 from hitting the curved section of the base guide rails 30 when the base part 20 transitions from the main section 30A to the end section 30B of the set of base guide rails 30. When the base part 20 transitions from the main section 30A to the end section 30B, one or more leading guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers 30 will start to follow the angled end section before the trailing guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers 30 reach the curved section of the base guide rails 30. A leading end of the base part 20 will thus start to lower while a trailing end of the base part 20 is still arranged on the main section 30A of the base guide rails 30. This leads to a tilting of the base part 20 in relation to the main section 30A, but also causes the distance between the base guide rail facing side 26 of the base part 20 and the set of base guide rails 30 to reduce. If the distance between the two base guide rails 30 would be smaller than the width of the main body 24 of the base part 20, the underside, such as the guide rail facing side 26, of the main body 24 of the base part 20 might get caught on the curved section of the set of base guide rails 30, which could prevent a further movement of the base part 20 in relation to the set of base guide rails 30.

Fig. 9C shows the example set of base guide rails of Fig. 8 from the side view of Fig. 9A. The end sections 30B are in the example shown in Fig. 8 and 9A-9D, arranged at an angle a to the main section 30A. The angle a may be chosen such that a set of gangway roller wheels 15A, 15B are able to roll along the mooring point when the gangway 10 is extracted towards the mooring point at the angle a and the set of gangway roller wheels 15A, 15B arranged on the gangway 10 make contact with the mooring point. In one or more example gangway systems, the angle a may be in the range of 0-80°. A length LBG of the base guide rails 30 between the distal ends of the end sections 30B may in one or more examples correspond to a width of the vessel to which the gangway system 1 is mounted, such as to a width of the vessel 100 at the deck. The length of the main section may be in the range of 60-97% of the length of the base guide rails from a distal end of a first end section to a distal end of a second end section. The length of the end sections may be in the range of 3-40% of the length of the base guide rails from a distal end of a first end section to a distal end of a second end section.

A cross sectional view of the main section 30A seen in the cutting plane E-E of the main section 30A of the set of base guide rails 30 will be discussed in further detail in relation to Fig. 9D.

Fig. 9D shows a cross-sectional view of the main section 30A of the example base guide rails 30 seen in the cutting plane E-E of Fig. 9B. Then base guide rails 30 may be arranged on a deck, such as on a main deck, of a vessel. Each of the base guide rails 30 may comprise a lateral support surface 31 for guiding the guide rail rollers 23 of the base part 20 in a lateral direction of the guide rail rollers 23. The base guide rails 30 further comprise a first radial support surface 32A for guiding the guide rail rollers 23 in a first radial direction of the guide rail rollers 23 and a second radial support surface 32B for guiding the guide rail rollers 23 in a second radial direction of the guide rail rollers 23. The cross section of the end sections 30B and the curved sections connecting the main section 30A and the end sections 30B corresponds to the cross section of the main section 30A. Hence, the guide rail rollers 23 is supported by the lateral surface 31 and the first and second radial surfaces 32A, 32B over the entire length LBG of the base guide rails 30 The lateral surface 31 and the first and second radial surfaces 32A, 32B allow a movement of the guide rail rollers 23 in a longitudinal direction of the guide rails, but prevents a movement of the guide rail rollers in a direction perpendicular to the center axis XCGR of the base guide rails 30. This ensures that the guide rail rollers 23 do not disengage from the base guide rails 30 when the base part 20 moves along the base guide rails 30.

Figs. 10A-E illustrate an example gangway system 1 arranged on a vessel 100 during operation, such as remote operation, of the gangway 10, from a retracted position to an extended position. The gangway system 1 is arranged on the vessel such that the longitudinal center axis XCG of the gangway 10, the longitudinal center axis XCB of the base part 20 and the longitudinal center axis XCGR of the set of base guide rails 30 are arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal center axis of the vessel 100, such as in a lateral direction of the vessel 100. The end sections 31 B of the set of base guide rails 30 are arranged at a respective side of the vessel 100, such as on a starboard side and a port side of the vessel 100, such that the base part 20 and/or the gangway 10 are configured to slide on the set of base guide rails 30 in a lateral direction of the vessel 100 between the starboard side and the port side of the vessel. In the example shown in Fig. 10A-E the vessel 100 is moored to a mooring point 40, such as a to pier, a quay and/or a dock.

Fig. 10A illustrates the example gangway system 1 arranged on a vessel 100 and being in a first example position, such as in a retracted position. In the retracted position the base part 20 is arranged at the center section of the gangway 10 and at a center section of the base guide rails 30, such as on a center section of the main part 31 A of the base guide rails 30. The gangway 10 is stored on the deck of the vessel 100, such as amidships the vessel, and may not protrude over any side of the vessel 100. The guide rail rollers 23 are in engagement with the set of base guide rails 30 and the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are in engagement respectively with the first and second gangway tracks 11 A, 11 B. Since the base part 20 is arrange at the center section of the gangway 10, both the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A and the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are located respectively in the first closed section 13A and the second closed section 13B of the first and second gangway tracks 11 A, 11 B. The gangway 10 and the base part 20 are thus secured from tilting in relation to each other. The gangway system 1 may comprise a first drive system for moving the base part 20 in relation to the gangway 10 and a second drive system for moving the base part 20 in relation to the base guide rails 30. In the retracted position, the base part 20 may be secured to the gangway 10 by means of the first drive system and/or may be secured to the base guide rails 30 by means of one or more locking systems, such as a brake comprised in the first and/or second drive system and/or a locking pin. The first and the second set of gangway roller wheels 15A, 15B of the gangway 10 may further be configured to laterally abut the base guide rails 30, in order to prevent a rotation of the gangway 10 in relation to the base part 20 and/or the base guide rails 30 when the gangway 10 is in the retracted position.

Fig. 10B shows the gangway system 1 in a second example position. In Fig. 10B the base part 20 has been operated, such as remotely operated, to move from the retracted position of the gangway system 1 towards a first extended position of the gangway system 1. The locking system has been operated to allow a movement of the base part 20 in relation to the base guide rails 30. However, the gangway 10 may still be secured to the base part 20, such that the base part 20 remains at the center section of the gangway 10. The gangway 10 thus moves with the base part 20 towards a first end section 30B of the base guide rails 30 located at the side of the vessel facing the mooring point 40. During the movement of the base part 20 and the gangway 10 along the main section 30A of the base guide rails 30, the first set of gangway roller wheels 15A and/or the second set of gangway roller wheels 15B may laterally abut the base guide rails 30 to provide lateral support to the gangway 10 during the movement. This may prevent the base part 20 from getting wedged in the base guide rails due to a rotating movement of the gangway 10 in relation to the base guide rails 30 caused for example by wind gusts catching the gangway 10 during operation of the gangway system 1 . Wind gusts may particularly be an issue when an end of the gangway 10 extends beyond a side of the vessel 100, such as shown in Fig. 10B. The movement of the base part 20 in relation to the base guide rails 30 may for example be performed using the second drive system. Fig. 10C shows the gangway system 1 in a third example position. In the third position the base part 20 is fully extracted and has reached the end section 30B of the base guide rails 30. The leading guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers 23 have reached a distal end of the end section 30A while the trailing guide rail rollers of the set of guide rail rollers 23 are still located in the main section 30A of the base guide rails 30. Since the end section 30A is arranged at an angle to the main section 30A , the base plate tilts in relation to the main section 30A of the base guide rails 30 and/or the deck of the vessel 100. The gangway 10, which is still secured to the main part 20, follows the tilting movement of the base part 20 such that a first end of the gangway 10 is directed towards the mooring point 40. Upon the base part 20 reaching the distal end of the end section 30B of the base guide rails, the base part 20 may in one or more example gangway systems, be secured to the base guide rails 30 to prevent a further movement of the base part 20 in relation to the base guide rails 30.

Fig. 10D shows the gangway system 1 in a fourth example position. Once the base part 20 has reached the distal end of the end section 30A the gangway may be released from the base part 20, such that it can move in relation to the base part 20. The gangway 10 is controlled to move, such as slide, in relation to the base part 20. The movement of the base part 20 in relation to the gangway 10 may for example be performed using the first drive system. The gangway 10 is moved in relation to the base part 20, such that it extends towards the mooring point 40. During this movement, the base part 20 translates from the center section of the gangway 10 towards a first end of the gangway 10. When the base part translates from the center section of the gangway 10 towards the first end of the gangway 10 the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A follow the first gangway track 11A towards the first closed section 13A of the first gangway track 11A. The second set of gangway track rollers 21 B follow the second gangway track 11 B towards the second open section 12B of the second gangway track 11B arranged at the first end of the gangway 10. Once the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B reach the second open section 12B they are configured to disengage from the second gangway track 11B in a direction perpendicular to the second gangway track 10.

Fig. 10E shows the gangway system 1 in a fifth example position, such as in a first extended position, such as in a first extended position of the base part 20 in relation to the gangway 10. In the first extended position, the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B is configured to disengage with the second gangway track 11 B while the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A is in engagement with the first gangway track 11 A, such that the gangway 10 can pivot in relation to the base part 20 around a first axis X1 of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A. In the example shown in Fig. 10 the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B are the set of gangway track rollers mounted closest to the mooring point 40, such as the set of gangway track rollers mounted on the side of the base part 20 arranged at the distal end of the end section 30B of the base guide rails 30. The first set of gangway roller wheels 15A may abut the mooring point 40, such that the contact force between the mooring point 40 and the first set of gangway roller wheels 15A may generate a pivoting movement of the gangway 10 around the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A. In the extended position, the gangway system 1 may thus compensate for a change in distance between the deck of the vessel 100 and the mooring point 40, such as due to tidal conditions or mooring points having different heights in relation to a water surface, by being configured to allow the gangway to pivot in relation to the base part 20 around the first axis X1 of the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A.

Correspondingly, if the mooring point 40 is located on the opposite side of the vessel 100 The gangway 10 and the base part 20 may be moved in a similar way as disclosed in Figs. 10A-10E in the opposite direction of the base guide rails 30 towards a second extended position, such as towards a second extended position of the base part 20 in relation to the gangway 10. In the second extended position, the first set of gangway track rollers 21 A is configured to disengage with the first gangway track 11 A while the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B is in engagement with the second gangway track 11 B, such that the gangway 10 can pivot in relation to the base part 20 around a second axis X2 of the second set of gangway track rollers 21 B.

Thereby, in one or more example embodiments, one gangway system 1 may be used for entering or leaving the vessel 100 on either one of the opposite sides of the vessel, such as the starboard side and/or the port side of the vessel 100.

It shall be noted that the features mentioned in the embodiments described in the Figs are not restricted to these specific embodiments. Any features of the gangway system 1 and the components comprised therein and mentioned in relation to the gangway 10 of Figs. 2-5B, to the base part 20 of Figs. 6-7C and to the base guide rails 30 of Figs. 8-9D, such as dimensions and/or cross sections, are thus also applicable to the gangway system 1 described in relation to figs. 10A-E.

It shall further be noted that a vertical axis, when referred to herein, relates to an imaginary line running vertically through the ship and through its center of gravity, a transverse axis or lateral axis is an imaginary line running horizontally across the ship and through the center of gravity and a longitudinal axis is an imaginary line running horizontally through the length of the ship through its center of gravity and parallel to a waterline. Similarly, when referred to herein, a vertical plane relates to an imaginary plane running vertically through the width of the ship, a transverse plane or lateral plane is an imaginary plane running horizontally across the ship and a longitudinal plane is an imaginary plane running vertically through the length of the ship.

Embodiments of products (gangway system and vessel) according to the disclosure are set out in the following items:

Item 1. A gangway system (1 ) for a vessel, wherein the gangway system (1 ) comprises a gangway (10) and a base part (20) movably arranged in relation to each other in a longitudinal direction of the gangway (10), the base part (20) comprising a first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) and a second set of gangway track rollers (21 B), the gangway (10) comprising a first gangway track (11 A) and a second gangway track (11 B) extending in the longitudinal direction of the gangway (10), wherein the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) are configured to movably engage the first gangway track (11 A) and the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) are configured to movably engage the second gangway track (11 B), wherein, in a retracted position of the base part (20) in relation to the gangway (10), the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) and the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) are in engagement respectively with the first and second gangway tracks (11 A, 11 B); and wherein, in a first extended position of the base part (20) in relation to the gangway (10), the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) is configured to disengage with the second gangway track (11 B) and the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) is in engagement with the first gangway track (11 A), such that the gangway (10) can pivot in relation to the base part (20) around a first axis (X1 ) of the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A).

Item 2. The gangway system (1) according to Item 1 , wherein, in a second extended position of the base part (20) in relation to the gangway (10), the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) is configured to disengage with the first gangway track (11A) and the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) is in engagement with the second gangway track (11B), such that the gangway (10) can pivot in relation to the base part (20) around a second axis (X2) of the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B).

Item 3. The gangway system (1 ) according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the first gangway track (11A) has a first open section (12A) and a first closed section (13A), wherein the first closed section (13A) is configured to restrict a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) in relation to the first gangway track (11A) in a direction perpendicular to the first gangway track (11 A) of the gangway (10) and the first open section (12A) is configured to allow a movement of the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) in relation to the first gangway track (11A) in the direction perpendicular to the first gangway track (11 A). Item 4. The gangway system (1) according to Item 3, wherein the first closed section (13A) of the first gangway track (11A) extends from a center section towards a first end of the gangway (10) and the first open section (12A) of the first gangway track (11A) extends from the center section towards a second end of the gangway (10).

Item 5. The gangway system (1 ) according to any one of the Items 3 to 4, wherein the first closed section (13A) of the first gangway track (11 A) is C-shaped.

Item 6. The gangway system (1 ) according to any one of the Items 1 to 5, wherein the second gangway track (11 B) has a second open section (12B) and a second closed section (13B), wherein the second closed section (13B) is configured to restrict a movement of the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) in a direction perpendicular to the second gangway track (11 B) of the gangway (10) and the second open section (12B) is configured to allow a movement of the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) in relation to the second gangway track (11 B) in the direction perpendicular to the second gangway track (11 B).

Item 7. The gangway system (1) according to Item 6, wherein the second closed section (13B) of the second gangway track (11 B) extends from a center section towards the second end of the gangway (10) and the second open section (12B) of the second gangway track (11 B) extends from a center section towards the first end of the gangway (10).

Item 8. The gangway system (1 ) according to any one of Item 3 to 5 and any one of Item 6 to 7 wherein the first closed section (13A) of the first gangway track (11A) and the second closed section (13B) of the second gangway track (11 B) overlap in a center section of the gangway (10).

Item 9. The gangway system (1) according to any one of the Items 6 to 8, wherein the second closed section (13B) of the second gangway track (11 B) is C-shaped.

Item 10. The gangway system (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the first gangway track (11 A) and the second gangway track (11 B) are arranged parallel to and offset from each other.

Item 11 . The gangway system (1 ) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) are arranged at a first end (22A) of the base part (20) and the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) are arranged at a second end (22B) of the base part (20).

Item 12. The gangway system (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the first set of gangway track rollers (21 A) and the second set of gangway track rollers (21 B) are arranged parallel to and offset from each other. Item 13. The gangway system (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the gangway assembly (1) comprises a first drive system (40) for moving the gangway (1 ) in relation to the base part (20).

Item 14. The gangway system (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the gangway system (1) comprises a set of base guide rails (30) for guiding the base part (20), wherein the one or more base guide rails (30) are configured to be mounted to a vessel (100).

Item 15. The gangway system (1) according to Item 14, wherein the base part (20) comprises a set of guide rail rollers (23), and wherein the set of base guide rails (30) are configured to movably receive the set of guide rail rollers (23). Item 16. The gangway system (1) according to any one of Items 14 to 15, wherein the set of base guide rails (30) comprise a main section (30A) and an end section (30B) arranged at an angle to the main section (30A). Item 17. The gangway system (1) according to any one of the previous Items, wherein the gangway (10) comprises a first set of gangway roller wheels (15A) arranged at a first end of the gangway (10) and a second set of gangway roller wheels (15B) arranged at the second end of the gangway (10). Item 18. The gangway system (1) according to Item 17, when dependent on any one of Items 14 to 16, wherein the first set of gangway roller wheels (15A) and the second set of gangway roller wheels (15B) are configured to laterally engage the base guide rails (30), such that the gangway (10) is restricted from rotating in relation to the base guide rails (30).

Item 19. The gangway system (1 ) according to any one of the Items 14 to 16, wherein the gangway system (1) comprises a second drive system (50) for moving the base part (20) in relation to the base guide rails (30). Item 20. The gangway system (1 ) according to any one of the Items 14 to 16, wherein the gangway system (1) comprises a locking system for locking the gangway (10) to the base guide rails (30), when the gangway (10) is in a retracted position.

Item 21 . A vessel (100) comprising the gangway system (1 ) according to any one of the Items 1 to 20

The use of the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. does not imply any particular order, but are included to identify individual elements. Moreover, the use of the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. does not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. Note that the words “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary”, “tertiary” etc. are used here and elsewhere for labelling purposes only and are not intended to denote any specific spatial or temporal ordering. Furthermore, the labelling of a first element does not imply the presence of a second element and vice versa.

It is to be noted that the word "comprising" does not necessarily exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed. It is to be noted that the words "a" or "an" preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

It is to be noted that the words "a set of' herein means one or more.

Although features have been shown and described, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed disclosure, and it will be made obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed disclosure. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. The claimed disclosure is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.