A wind turbine, floating platform and mooring system integrated coupling wind power equipment

Abstract

An integrated wind power system comprising a wind turbine, a floating platform, and a mooring system includes a wind turbine generator, a connecting support structure, a floating structure, and a single-point mooring device. The connecting support structure is a three-pole structure, consisting of three poles arranged in a tripod configuration. The tops of the three poles are connected to the bottom of the nacelle. The floating structure includes three floating devices, with each pole's bottom connected to a floating device. Each floating device includes a column and a buoy. The bottom of the pole is fixed to the column, and the buoy is connected to the column. The three poles consist of two short poles and one long pole. The planes of the two short poles are close to and parallel to the wind turbine surface. The single-point mooring device is connected to the bottom of the floating device corresponding to the long pole. This invention uses a three-pole structure instead of a traditional tower, and in conjunction with the columns, wind turbine, and other structures, it can automatically yaw without the need for an active yaw mechanical structure, saving costs and improving platform stability and power generation efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of floating wind power equipment technology, and in particular to a wind power equipment that integrates a wind turbine, a floating platform, and a mooring system. Background Technology

[0002] With intertidal and nearshore turbine sites gradually reaching saturation, the construction of wind farms in deep-sea areas has become an inevitable trend. The development trend of offshore wind power will be from land to sea, from shallow to deep water, and from fixed foundations to floating platforms. Industry insiders believe that floating wind power will become the main way to reduce costs in offshore wind power after the trend towards larger turbines. However, due to the immaturity of many key technologies in floating wind power, including turbines, foundations and mooring systems, and dynamic cables, costs remain high. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find floating wind power designs that can reduce costs and improve economic efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a wind power equipment that integrates the design of the wind turbine, floating foundation and anchoring system. It adopts a three-pole structure instead of the traditional tower, eliminates the need for an active yaw system, and reduces costs, improves platform stability and increases power generation efficiency by reducing weight and using passive yaw.

[0004] This invention is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0005] An integrated wind power equipment comprising a wind turbine, a floating platform, and a mooring system includes a wind turbine generator, a connecting support structure, a floating structure, and a single-point mooring device. The wind turbine generator includes a three-bladed rotor and a nacelle. The connecting support structure is a three-pole structure, comprising three poles arranged in a tripod configuration. The tops of the three poles are respectively connected to the bottom of the nacelle. The floating structure includes three floating devices corresponding to the three poles, with one of the floating devices connected to the bottom of each pole. The single-point mooring device is connected to the bottom of one of the floating devices to anchor the entire wind power equipment to the seabed. This wind power platform differs from common semi-submersible platforms. To minimize platform displacement, a three-pole structure replaces the tower. The platform uses a three-column design below the three poles but lacks underwater structures such as heave plates and lower floating bodies (buoys or pontoons), facilitating yaw control.

[0006] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned floating devices includes a column and a buoy. The column floats on the sea surface, and the bottom end of the pole is fixed to the column. One pole corresponds to one column, and the buoy is connected to the column. Since the platform does not have a traditional submerged anchor structure, an additional structure is required to provide buoyancy. The column and the buoy jointly provide buoyancy, and the buoy can also provide a greater restoring moment in the event of capsizing.

[0007] Furthermore, the column is equipped with a ballast tank and a ballast control module. The ballast control module controls the ballast status of the ballast tank to adjust the center of gravity and maintain the basic posture of the entire equipment. The buoy is also connected to a water inlet / outlet module, which adjusts the center of gravity by regulating the amount of water in the buoy. The buoy is connected to the column via a connecting rod. One end of the connecting rod is fixed to the column and extends outward from the triangle formed by the three columns. The buoy is connected to the other end of the connecting rod, causing the buoy to extend outward as well. Because the buoy is connected to the outside of the three columns, the radius of buoyancy is expanded, improving the stability of the overall structure. The buoy can be welded to the connecting rod. Common marine engineering berthing buoys can be used. To adjust the buoys with the center of gravity at the rear, each buoy needs to be filled with ballast water.

[0008] Furthermore, the wind turbine is a leeward structure, with the rotor positioned behind the tower (relative to the wind direction). This means the wind blows over the tower first, then over the rotor, unlike common upwind turbines where the wind blows over the impeller first, then over the tower. Structurally, this is achieved simply by aligning the leading edge of the blades with the rear of the structure and reversing the generator. Because this invention does not use a traditional tower but instead employs a thin rod, the leeward turbine structure minimizes the tower shadow effect. Compared to the upwind structure, it can automatically yaw to adjust to the wind direction. No yaw system is located below it; it can automatically yaw according to the wind direction to absorb wind energy, thus saving control costs.

[0009] Furthermore, each of the three uprights comprises two short poles and one long pole. The plane containing the two short poles is close to and parallel to the rotor surface of the three-bladed wind turbine, and the two short poles are of equal length and symmetrical about the vertical plane containing the nacelle. The long pole extends away from the rotor surface. The specific lengths and angles of the two short poles and one long pole can be designed according to the wave resistance of the platform, the size of the wind turbine, and its strength.

[0010] Furthermore, the included angle between the two short rods is 80°-100°, and the included angle between the long rod and the two short rods is equal, both being 100°-120°. The ratio of the length of the long rod to the length of the short rod is (1.2-1.5):1.

[0011] Furthermore, each of the floating devices includes a column and a buoy. The column floats on the sea surface, and the bottom end of the pole is fixed to the column. One pole corresponds to one column. The buoy is connected to the column. The column on the floating device connected by the long pole is the first column, and the buoy on the floating device connected by the long pole is the first buoy. The column on the floating device connected by the short pole is the second column, and the buoy on the floating device connected by the short pole is the second buoy. The height of the first column is greater than the height of the second column, and the volume of the first buoy is greater than the volume of the second buoy.

[0012] Furthermore, both the first and second pillars are equipped with ballast tanks and ballast control modules. The ballast control modules are used to control the ballast status of the ballast tanks to adjust the center of gravity and maintain the basic posture of the entire equipment. Both the first and second floats are connected to water inlet and outlet modules, used to adjust the center of gravity by adjusting the water volume in the first and second floats. The first and second floats are respectively connected to the first and second pillars via connecting rods. Similarly, one end of the connecting rod is fixed to the first or second pillar and extends outwards from the triangle formed by the three pillars. The first or second float is connected to the other end of the connecting rod, causing both the first and second floats to extend outwards, thus expanding the radius of buoyancy.

[0013] Furthermore, a boarding platform is provided on the first column for connection with the maintenance vessel, allowing personnel to board. Climbing facilities are provided on the long pole for personnel to climb to the engine room for maintenance. The wind turbine's cable passes through the middle of the long pole and connects to the first column. Converters, main control equipment, and other devices can also be mounted on the first column.

[0014] In this invention, the first two columns (the second column) are shorter, while the rear column (the first column) is longer. The rear column (the first column) serves as a platform for personnel to board and alight. The extended diagonal rod at the rear allows access to the unit for maintenance. Furthermore, the rear column and the float are heavier; to balance the unit's weight, the overall structural center of gravity can be positioned at the center of the rear column, facilitating passive yaw. Since all connecting components are rods, the structure is lightweight and lacks an active yaw mechanism, adjusting the center of gravity horizontally is relatively easy, allowing yaw to be achieved entirely through aerodynamic forces against the wind.

[0015] Furthermore, the single-point mooring device is connected to the bottom of the first column and is used to pull the platform partially into the water, thereby balancing the platform's gravity, buoyancy, and mooring tension.

[0016] Furthermore, the single-point mooring device includes an anchoring foundation, a composite tension tendon, and a swivel bearing. The swivel bearing is connected to the bottom of the first column, allowing the platform to rotate around the center of the first column. The anchoring foundation is anchored to the seabed, and the anchoring foundation should be a suction anchor or similar type with a high axial bearing capacity. One end of the composite tension tendon is connected to the swivel bearing, and the other end is connected to the anchoring foundation. Using a tension tendon ensures performance in the heave direction, improving heave performance compared to traditional semi-submersible platforms.

[0017] This invention uses a three-pole structure instead of a traditional tower, which reduces the amount of steel used in the platform and saves costs. The three-pole connection support structure, the direct connection of the poles to the columns and the downwind fan structure, etc., can also automatically yaw, eliminating the need for an active yaw mechanical structure, as well as the structure without a heave plate and a lower float. While making yaw control easier, it can save control costs and reduce the equipment failure rate. By setting up a floating device that combines columns and buoys, the stability of the platform is improved, and the center of gravity of the platform can be adjusted by the ballast conditions of the three columns and buoys to adapt to different marine environments. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the wind turbine and the connecting support structure in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting support structure in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the long rod in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a single-point mooring device in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Reference numerals: 1-Wind turbine; 2-Connecting support structure; 3-Floating structure; 4-Single-point mooring device; 11-Wind rotor; 12-Nacelle; 21-Long rod; 211-Pedal; 22-Short rod; 23-Connecting block; 31-First column; 32-Second column; 33-First buoy; 34-Second buoy; 35-Connecting rod; 41-Rotary connecting bearing; 42-Tension tendon; 43-Anchoring foundation; 44-Cable. Detailed Implementation

[0025] A wind power system that integrates a wind turbine, a floating platform, and a mooring system, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, the wind turbine platform includes a wind turbine generator set 1, a connecting support structure 2, a floating structure 3, and a single-point mooring device 4. The wind turbine generator set 1 includes a three-bladed rotor 11 and a nacelle 12. The connecting support structure 2 is a three-pole structure, consisting of three poles arranged in a tripod configuration. The tops of the three poles are connected to the bottom of the nacelle 12. The floating structure 3 includes three floating devices corresponding to the three poles, with one of the floating devices connected to the bottom of each pole. The single-point mooring device 4 is connected to the bottom of one of the floating devices to anchor the entire wind power equipment to the seabed. This wind power platform differs from common semi-submersible platforms. To minimize platform displacement, a three-pole structure replaces the tower. The platform uses a three-column design below the three poles, but lacks underwater structures such as heave plates and lower floating bodies (buoys or pontoons), making yaw control easier.

[0026] In one implementation, in this embodiment, the three uprights are two short poles 22 and one long pole 21, specifically, as follows: Figure 2 , Figure 3 The tops of the two short rods 22 and the long rod 21 are welded to the connecting block 23, which is fixed to the bottom of the nacelle 12. The plane where the two short rods 22 are located is close to and parallel to the wind turbine 11 surface of the three-bladed wind turbine 11, and the two short rods 22 are of equal length and are symmetrical about the vertical plane where the nacelle 12 is located. The long rod 21 extends away from the wind turbine 11 surface.

[0027] The specific lengths and angles of the two short poles 22 and the long pole 21 can be designed based on the platform's wave resistance, the size and strength of the wind turbine. To improve the wave resistance of the three-pole connection support structure 2 and ensure the platform's stability, the three-dimensional configuration of the three poles needs to be calculated and optimized, such as... Figure 4 The included angle between the two short rods 22 is α, 80°≤α≤100°. The included angle β between the long rod 21 and the two short rods 22 is equal, 100°≤β≤120°. The ratio of the length L1 of the long rod 21 to the length L2 of the short rod 22 is (1.2-1.5):1.

[0028] Each of the aforementioned floating devices includes a column and a buoy. The column floats on the sea surface, and the bottom end of the pole is fixed to the column. One pole corresponds to one column. The buoy is connected to the column. The column connected to the floating device by the long pole 21 is the first column 31, and the buoy connected to the floating device by the long pole 21 is the first buoy 33. The column connected to the floating device by the short pole 22 is the second column 32, and the buoy connected to the floating device by the short pole 22 is the second buoy 34. The height of the first column 31 is greater than the height of the second column 32, and the volume of the first buoy 33 is greater than the volume of the second buoy 34. Since the platform does not have a traditional submerged anchor structure, an additional structure is needed to provide buoyancy. The column and the buoy jointly provide buoyancy, and the buoy can also provide a greater restoring moment in the event of capsizing.

[0029] Both the first column 31 and the second column 32 are equipped with ballast tanks and ballast control modules. The ballast control modules control the ballast conditions of the ballast tanks to adjust the center of gravity and maintain the basic posture of the entire equipment. The ballast control modules include water pumps and controllers, which pump water into or drain water from the ballast tanks of the corresponding columns according to the platform's posture. The first float 33 and the second float 34 are both connected to water inlet and drainage modules. These modules also include water pumps and corresponding controllers, used to adjust the center of gravity by regulating the water volume in the first float 33 and the second float 34. The first float 33 and the second float 34 are connected to the first column 31 and the second column 32 respectively via connecting rods 35. One end of the connecting rod 35 is fixed to the first column 31 or the second column 32 and extends outwards from the triangle formed by the three columns. The first float 33 or the second float 34 is connected to the other end of the connecting rod 35, causing the first float 33 or the second float 34 to extend outwards, expanding the radius of buoyancy and improving the overall structural stability. The buoy is welded to the connecting rod 35, which is then fixed to the column. The buoy can be any of the berthing buoys used in general marine engineering. In order to adjust the buoys with the center of gravity at the rear, each buoy needs to be filled with ballast water.

[0030] The first column 31 is equipped with a boarding platform for connecting with the maintenance vessel and allowing personnel to board. The long pole 21 is equipped with climbing facilities, allowing for easy access. Figure 5 As shown, several footboards 211 are installed along the long pole 21 for personnel to climb to the nacelle 12 for maintenance. The cable of the wind turbine 1 passes through the middle of the long pole 21 and connects to the first column 31, and then from the first column 31 connects to the single-point mooring device 4. Converters, main control and other equipment can also be installed on the first column 31.

[0031] The first two columns (second column 32) of this invention are shorter, while the rear column (first column 31) is longer. The rear column (first column 31) serves as a platform for personnel to board and alight. The rear diagonal rod 21 allows access to the unit for maintenance. Since the rear column and float are heavier, to balance the unit's weight, the overall structural center of gravity can be positioned at the center of the rear column, facilitating passive yaw. Because all connecting components are rods, the structure is lightweight and lacks an active yaw mechanism, adjusting the center of gravity horizontally is relatively easy, allowing yaw to be achieved entirely by relying on aerodynamic forces against the wind.

[0032] In one embodiment, the wind turbine 1 is a leeward structure, with the rotor 11 positioned behind the tower (relative to the wind direction). This means the wind blows over the tower first, then over the rotor 11. In contrast, in common upwind wind turbines, the wind blows over the impeller first, then over the tower. Structurally, this can be achieved simply by aligning the leading edge of the blades with the tail of the structure and reversing the generator. Because this invention does not use a traditional tower but instead employs a thin rod, the leeward wind turbine structure minimizes the tower shadow effect. Compared to the upwind structure, it can automatically yaw to adjust to the wind direction. No yaw system is installed below it; it can automatically yaw according to the wind direction to absorb wind energy, thereby saving control costs.

[0033] As one implementation method, such as Figure 6 The single-point mooring device 4 is connected to the bottom of the first column 31 and is used to pull the platform partially into the water, balancing the platform's weight, buoyancy, and mooring tension. The single-point mooring device 4 includes an anchoring foundation 43, a composite tension tendon 42, and a swivel bearing 41. The swivel bearing 41 is connected to the bottom of the first column 31, allowing the platform to rotate around the center of the first column 31. The anchoring foundation 43 is anchored to the seabed, and should be a suction anchor or similar type with high axial bearing capacity. One end of the composite tension tendon 42 is connected to the swivel bearing 41, and the other end is connected to the anchoring foundation 43. The cable 44 also exits from the swivel bearing 41, connecting to a substation and ultimately to the terminal power grid system. Using a tension tendon ensures performance in the heave direction, improving heave performance compared to traditional semi-submersible platforms.

[0034] The above detailed description is a specific description of feasible embodiments of the present invention. These embodiments are not intended to limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent implementations or modifications that do not depart from the present invention should be included in the patent scope of this case.

Claims

1. A wind power equipment integrating a wind turbine, a floating platform, and a mooring system, characterized in that, The system includes a wind turbine, a connecting support structure, a floating structure, and a single-point mooring device. The wind turbine includes a three-bladed rotor and a nacelle. The connecting support structure is a three-pole structure, consisting of three poles arranged in a tripod configuration. The tops of the three poles are connected to the bottom of the nacelle. The floating structure includes three floating devices corresponding to the three poles. Each pole has a floating device connected to its bottom. The single-point mooring device is connected to the bottom of one of the floating devices to anchor the entire wind power equipment to the seabed. Each of the aforementioned floating devices includes a column and a buoy. The column floats on the sea surface, the bottom end of the pole is fixed to the column, the buoy is connected to the column, and the wind turbine is a downwind structure. The column is equipped with a ballast tank and a ballast control module. The ballast control module is used to control the ballast condition of the ballast tank to adjust the center of gravity. The float is connected to a water inlet and drainage module, which is used to adjust the center of gravity by adjusting the amount of water in the float. The float is connected to the column through a connecting rod. One end of the connecting rod is fixed to the column and extends outward from the triangle formed by the three columns. The float is connected to the other end of the connecting rod. The three uprights consist of two short poles and one long pole. The plane in which the two short poles are located is close to and parallel to the rotor surface of the three-bladed wind turbine, and the two short poles are of equal length and symmetrical about the vertical plane in which the nacelle is located. The long pole extends away from the rotor surface. The column on the floating device connected by the long rod is the first column, and the buoy on the floating device connected by the long rod is the first buoy. The column on the floating device connected by the short rod is the second column, and the buoy on the floating device connected by the short rod is the second buoy. The height of the first column is greater than the height of the second column, and the volume of the first buoy is greater than the volume of the second buoy. The single-point mooring device is connected to the bottom of the first column and is used to balance the platform's gravity, buoyancy, and mooring tension.

2. The wind power equipment integrating wind turbine, floating platform and mooring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The included angle between the two short poles is 80°-100°, and the included angle between the long pole and the two short poles is equal, both being 100°-120°. The ratio of the length of the long pole to the length of the short pole is (1.2-1.5):

1.

3. The wind power equipment integrating wind turbine, floating platform, and mooring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first column is equipped with a boarding platform for connecting with the maintenance vessel and allowing personnel to board. The long pole is equipped with climbing facilities for personnel to climb to the engine room for maintenance. The wind turbine's cable passes through the middle of the long pole and connects to the first column.

4. The wind power equipment integrating wind turbine, floating platform and mooring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The single-point mooring device includes an anchoring foundation, a composite tension tendon, and a swivel bearing. The swivel bearing is connected to the bottom of the first column, the anchoring foundation is anchored to the seabed, and one end of the composite tension tendon is connected to the swivel bearing, while the other end is connected to the anchoring foundation.

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