In the simulation of cable/body deployment problems, the final state, i.e. predetermined locations at ocean bottom, are more restrained than the initial state. Thus, it was hypothesized that it is possible to reverse the time integration process, i.e. given desired coordinates, stresses and velocities in the final state, small steps backward in time can be taken and the values of all variables predicted needed to achieve that final state. Solving the cable governing equation backward in time and space is mathematically ill-posed. The difficulties in obtaining stable time decrement solutions are described from both numerical and physical points of view. Several approaches are considered and described. Details are given for the most successful approach which defines a well-postulated conjugate problem whose solution is close to the solution of the original problem. Three illustrative examples of the deployment of cable/bodies from a surface vessel are given to demonstrate the validity of the method.

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