Reusable device for preventing over-slipping of offshore monopile foundations and method of use thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage of a single-pile offshore foundation and a use method thereof, and belongs to the technical field of wind power foundation structure design. The device comprises a single-pile foundation and a prevent-excessive-pile-slippage platform which is detachably arranged on the single-pile foundation. The prevent-excessive-pile-slippage platform comprises a plurality of supporting beams which are arranged on the inner wall of the single-pile foundation in a circumferential direction. The prevent-pile-slippage baffle comprises a main supporting plate and a hierarchical baffle group. The prevent-excessive-pile-slippage platform has a gap part. When pile slippage occurs, the prevent-excessive-pile-slippage platform can allow water to pass through the gap part, and form resistance through the main supporting plate and the hierarchical baffle group to hinder the sinking of the single-pile foundation. When no pile slippage occurs, the device can be removed and reused. The application can form certain resistance when pile slippage occurs, effectively slow down the sinking speed of the single-pile foundation, and prevent excessive pile slippage. Meanwhile, the device can be flexibly adjusted in size and conveniently disassembled, and can adapt to the requirements of different seabed stratum conditions and pile slippage risk levels, and has better applicability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of wind power foundation structure design technology, specifically relating to a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations and its usage method. Background Technology

[0002] With the continued promotion of clean energy policies, the offshore wind power industry has ushered in unprecedented development opportunities. As a key supporting structure for offshore wind power facilities, the design, construction, and maintenance of offshore wind power foundations are directly related to the safety and stability of the entire wind power generation system. Among various foundation types, large-diameter monopile foundations have become the most widely used foundation type in the offshore wind power field due to their advantages such as simple structure and strong load-bearing capacity.

[0003] The construction of large-diameter monopile foundations typically employs the hammer driving method, which involves driving the monopile into the seabed to a predetermined depth using hammers. However, in complex seabed geological conditions, hammer driving often results in pile slippage. Pile slippage, or the unexpected sinking of a monopile foundation during hammer driving due to uneven or sudden decreases in ground resistance, is highly unpredictable. If pile slippage occurs, it not only severely impacts project progress but may also threaten the stability and safety of the monopile foundation. The depth of pile slippage is a key factor determining the ease of remedial measures. When the slippage is too deep, causing the top flange of the foundation to fall below the water surface, remedial work becomes extremely difficult and costly. In such cases, high-risk, high-cost remedial solutions such as underwater operations may be necessary. Conversely, if the slippage is shallow and the top flange remains above the water surface, remedial work is much simpler, often achieved by extending the pile at the surface. To address the pile slippage problem, existing solutions largely focus on preventing and controlling its occurrence, such as optimizing hammer driving techniques and strengthening geological exploration. However, at present, further optimization is still needed to improve the risk of pile slippage during the installation of monopile foundations, through the adoption of optimized hammering and enhanced bottom exploration. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a reusable device and method for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations. The purpose is to address the issue that current methods, such as optimized hammering and enhanced bottom exploration, still require further optimization to mitigate the risk of pile slippage during the installation of monopile foundations.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] The present invention provides a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in a marine monopile foundation, comprising a monopile foundation and an anti-excessive pile slippage platform detachably disposed on the monopile foundation. The anti-excessive pile slippage platform includes a plurality of supporting beams disposed circumferentially on the inner wall of the monopile foundation, and at least one supporting beam is provided with an anti-pile slippage baffle in a detachable manner.

[0007] The anti-slip pile baffle includes a main support plate and several graded baffle groups. The main support plate is radial and forms several strip plates that can be installed corresponding to the support beam. At least one strip plate is provided with an end support, which can be installed on the support beam. Different graded baffle groups are set between adjacent strip plates.

[0008] The anti-over-slip platform has a gap that allows water to pass through in the event of slippage, while the main support plate and graded baffle assembly create resistance to prevent the settlement of the single pile foundation.

[0009] In some implementations, the support beam is an upward-opening groove structure, and there are four to sixteen support beams, which are determined according to the geometry and stress requirements of the single pile foundation.

[0010] In some implementations, the end supports can be fixedly connected to the supporting beam.

[0011] In some implementations, the gap includes a through hole located in the middle of the main support plate and a water passage area formed along the axial direction of the anti-overflow pile platform.

[0012] Furthermore, each graded baffle group includes arc-shaped baffles of different sizes, and several arc-shaped baffles are arranged sequentially along the through hole to the inner wall of the monopile foundation.

[0013] Furthermore, the number of graded baffles is determined according to the risk level of pile sluice at the turbine location. When the risk level of pile sluice at the turbine location is high, the number of graded baffles is increased, and when the risk level of pile sluice at the turbine location is low, the number of graded baffles is decreased.

[0014] Furthermore, the water passage area includes the water passage holes reserved between adjacent arc-shaped baffles and the gap between the graded baffle group and the single pile foundation.

[0015] Furthermore, the size of the through holes, water passage holes, and gaps is designed and determined based on the diameter of the monopile foundation and the requirements of seawater resistance.

[0016] In some implementations, the anti-over-slip platform is detachably connected to the supporting beam.

[0017] This invention also provides a method for using a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations, comprising the following steps:

[0018] S1. Install an anti-excessive pile slip platform simultaneously during the manufacturing of monopile foundations to form a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slip in offshore monopile foundations.

[0019] S2. Install a reusable device to prevent excessive slippage of marine monopile foundations during offshore construction. If slippage occurs in the monopile foundation, the anti-excessive slippage platform will prevent the monopile foundation from sinking after entering the water.

[0020] If no slippage occurs in the single pile foundation, the anti-excessive slippage platform should be removed after installation.

[0021] Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a reusable device and method for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations, which has the following advantages:

[0022] This invention relates to a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations. The device includes a monopile foundation and an anti-excessive pile slippage platform installed on the foundation. The platform comprises several supporting beams arranged circumferentially on the inner wall of the monopile foundation. At least one supporting beam is detachably equipped with an anti-pile slippage baffle. The anti-pile slippage baffle includes a main support plate and graded baffles. The main support plate is radially oriented and forms several strip plates that can be installed correspondingly to the supporting beams. At least one strip plate is provided with an end support, which can be installed on the supporting beam. The graded baffle assembly includes several different arc-shaped baffles, which are arranged between adjacent strip plates. The anti-excessive pile slippage platform has gaps that allow water to pass through in the event of pile slippage, while the main support plate and graded baffle assembly create resistance to prevent the monopile foundation from settling. This invention, by adding an anti-excessive pile slippage platform to the monopile foundation, provides an additional support system and enhances its stability in complex geological formations. The anti-pile slippage platform provides specialized protection against pile slippage, improving the overall safety of offshore wind power foundations. The supporting beams in this invention are evenly distributed circumferentially, providing a stable support foundation for the anti-pile slippage baffles and ensuring the stability and reliability of the device during pile slippage. The design of the supporting beams makes the anti-pile slippage baffles easier to install and disassemble, facilitating adjustments according to actual needs. The anti-pile slippage baffles can quickly generate resistance when pile slippage occurs, effectively slowing down the settlement rate of the monopile foundation. The main support plate, as the primary support component, can withstand significant impact forces, providing stable support for the graded baffles. The graded baffles result in a more uniform resistance distribution, providing effective protection even at different pile slippage depths. The number of graded baffles can be adjusted according to the pile slippage risk level. Furthermore, the detachable design allows the anti-pile slippage baffles to be easily installed or removed as needed, facilitating maintenance and replacement.

[0023] This invention utilizes a combination of a support beam and anti-pile slippage baffles to create resistance when slippage occurs, effectively slowing down the settlement rate of a single pile foundation and preventing excessive slippage. Furthermore, the device is detachable and adjustable, allowing for adjustments to the number and position of the anti-pile slippage baffles to adapt to different seabed geological conditions and slippage risk levels, thus demonstrating excellent applicability. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings are provided to further understand the invention and constitute a part of this invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic elevation view of the reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in marine monopile foundations according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the state of a single pile foundation (without anti-pile-slip baffle) after slippage in a reusable device for preventing excessive slippage of marine single pile foundations according to the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic elevation view of a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in a marine monopile foundation (after the pile slippage, the upper part of the monopile foundation is extended).

[0028] Figure 4 This is an enlarged structural schematic diagram of the anti-over-slippage platform in a reusable device for preventing over-slippage of marine monopile foundations according to the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of the supporting beam in a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in a marine monopile foundation according to the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the anti-pile slippage baffle in a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in marine monopile foundations according to the present invention.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a plan view of the anti-slippage baffle in a reusable device for preventing excessive slippage of marine monopile foundations according to the present invention.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the main support plate and the graded baffle in a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in a marine monopile foundation according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the main support plate in a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in marine monopile foundations according to the present invention.

[0034] The attached diagram shows the following symbols: 1. Single pile foundation; 2. Supporting beam; 3. Anti-slip pile baffle.

[0035] 31. Main support plate;

[0036] 311. Strip plate; 312. End support;

[0037] 32. Graded baffle assembly;

[0038] 321. Arc-shaped baffle; 322. Water passage hole;

[0039] 33. Through hole; 34. Gap;

[0040] 4. Fixing bolts; 5. Water surface; 6. Seabed surface; 7. Upper extension section. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0042] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0043] Similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "horizontal," or "inner" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use, they are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention. Furthermore, terms such as "first" and "second" are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0045] Furthermore, the use of the term "horizontal" does not imply that the component must be absolutely horizontal, but rather that it can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] like Figures 1-9 As shown, the reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage of a marine monopile foundation according to the present invention includes a monopile foundation 1 and an anti-excessive pile slippage platform detachably installed on the monopile foundation 1. The anti-excessive pile slippage platform includes a plurality of supporting beams 2 arranged circumferentially on the inner wall of the monopile foundation 1, and at least one supporting beam 2 is provided with an anti-pile slippage baffle 3 in a detachable manner.

[0048] The anti-slipping baffle 3 includes a main support plate 31 and several graded baffle groups 32. The main support plate 31 is radial and forms several strip plates 311 that can be installed corresponding to the supporting beam 2. At least one strip plate 311 is provided with an end support 312, which can be provided on the supporting beam 2. Different graded baffle groups 32 are provided between adjacent strip plates 311.

[0049] The anti-over-slip platform has a gap. In the event of slippage, the anti-over-slip platform can allow water to pass through the gap and form resistance through the main support plate 31 and the graded baffle group 32 so as to prevent the settlement of the single pile foundation 1.

[0050] The present invention relates to a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in marine monopile foundations, comprising a support beam 2 welded to the monopile foundation 1, and an anti-pile slippage baffle 3 mounted on the support beam 2. The anti-pile slippage baffle 3 is placed on the support beam 2 and fixed to the support beam 2 by fixing bolts 4. The anti-pile slippage baffle 3 has a through hole 33 in the middle, and there is a certain gap between the anti-pile slippage baffle 3 and the wall of the monopile foundation 1, forming a gap. When pile slippage occurs, the anti-pile slippage baffle 3 comes into contact with seawater. The seawater and the anti-pile slippage baffle 3 interact, and some seawater passes through the gap. Due to the obstruction of the main support plate 31 and the graded baffle group 32, the seawater will generate huge resistance to the monopile foundation 1, thereby preventing further pile slippage and preventing excessive pile slippage in the monopile foundation 1.

[0051] This invention forms a modular anti-excessive pile slip platform by combining circumferentially distributed support beams 2 with detachable anti-pile slip baffles 3, allowing for flexible adjustment of the resistance area at different construction stages. The radial strip design of the main support plate 31 ensures uniform load distribution, and the end supports 312 and support beams 2 form a bidirectional force system, improving the stability of the device. The multi-layered arrangement of graded baffle groups 32 creates resistance, and the gaps allow for control of drainage, achieving a dynamic balance of adjustable resistance and controllable drainage during construction. The gaps ensure necessary water flow to prevent negative pressure on the monopile foundation 1, while the eddy current resistance generated by the graded baffle groups 32 and support beams 2 reduces the kinetic energy of the slipping pile. Since the anti-excessive pile slip platform is integrated into the monopile foundation 1, it avoids the risk of external auxiliary devices being impacted by ocean currents, making it suitable for offshore monopile foundation construction scenarios.

[0052] In some embodiments, the support beam 2 of the present invention is generally in the shape of a channel steel with an upward opening. This upward-opening structure facilitates the insertion and installation of the anti-slip baffle 3, forming a self-locking connection interface. The support beam 2 is uniformly welded circumferentially onto the monopile foundation 1. Specifically, the support beam 2 can be distributed in numbers of 4 to 16, the specific number of which can be determined based on the geometry and stress conditions of the monopile foundation 1 to achieve an optimal balance between bearing capacity and material cost. The channel-shaped support beam 2 forms a closed stress section, increasing bending stiffness and meeting the impact requirements of large-tonnage pile hammers.

[0053] Furthermore, the main support plate 31 of the present invention is radially oriented, and an end support 312 is welded to the main support plate 31 near its end. The end support 312 is placed on the support beam 2 and connected to the support beam 2 by fixing bolts 4. The rigid connection between the end support 312 and the support beam 2 of the present invention forms a three-point support structure, which transforms concentrated loads into distributed loads and reduces the risk of stress concentration. When the present invention uses high-strength fixing bolts 4 for connection, reliable fixing under preload torque can be achieved, resisting loosening caused by construction vibration.

[0054] In some embodiments, the number of arc-shaped baffles 321 of the present invention can be determined according to the probability of pile slippage at the turbine location. If the probability of pile slippage at the turbine location is high, more arc-shaped baffles 321 can be added to increase water resistance; if the probability of pile slippage at the turbine location is low, fewer arc-shaped baffles 321 can be added. Based on geological survey data, the present invention can dynamically adjust the number of arc-shaped baffles 321 to achieve precise prevention and control. By using a modular method of adding or removing arc-shaped baffles 321, the reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage of offshore monopile foundations has a better reuse rate, controls costs, and has certain practical significance.

[0055] The gap portion of the present invention includes a through hole 33 disposed in the middle of the main support plate 31 and a water passage area formed along the axial direction of the anti-overflow pile platform. The through hole 33 in the center of the present invention forms the main drainage channel, which, together with the axial water passage area, provides the flow area during construction and installation. Further optimized, the edge of the through hole 33 of the present invention can be designed with a guide section or rounded corners, etc., according to actual needs, to optimize the control of water flow rate.

[0056] Furthermore, several different arc-shaped baffles 321 of the present invention are arranged sequentially along the through hole 33 to the inner wall of the monopile foundation 1. The arc-shaped baffles 321 of the present invention adopt a gradient radius design to form a stepped installation, and a certain distance is maintained between adjacent arc-shaped baffles 321.

[0057] Furthermore, the water passage area includes water passage holes 322 reserved between several arc-shaped baffles 321 and gaps 34 between the graded baffle group 32 and the monopile foundation 1. The spacing between adjacent arc-shaped baffles 321 in this invention constitutes the water passage hole 322, which is an arc-shaped hole. Specifically, the sizes of the through holes 33, water passage holes 322, and gaps 34 are designed according to the diameter of the monopile foundation 1 and the requirements of seawater resistance. Through the coordination of the water passage holes 322, through holes 33, and gaps 34, the necessary seawater flow can be ensured during the installation of a reusable device to prevent excessive slippage of the marine monopile foundation.

[0058] This invention also provides a method for using a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations, comprising the following steps:

[0059] S1. When manufacturing the monopile foundation 1, the anti-excessive pile slip platform is installed simultaneously to form a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slip of the marine monopile foundation.

[0060] S2. Install the reusable device for preventing excessive slippage of marine monopile foundations at sea. If the monopile foundation 1 slips, the anti-excessive slippage platform will prevent the monopile foundation 1 from sinking after entering the water.

[0061] If no slippage occurs in the single pile foundation 1, the anti-excessive slippage platform shall be removed after installation.

[0062] In some embodiments, when the monopile foundation 1 is manufactured in a steel structure manufacturing plant (onshore), the anti-over-slippage platform is simultaneously installed. Subsequently, the anti-over-slippage platform is installed along with the monopile foundation 1 on the seabed surface 6. During construction, if the monopile foundation 1 experiences slippage (typically requiring the formation of an upper extension section 7), the anti-over-slippage platform, once submerged, can prevent significant slippage, ensuring the top flange of the monopile is above the water surface 5. If the monopile foundation 1 does not experience slippage, the anti-over-slippage platform remains above the water surface. The fixing bolts 4 between the anti-slippage baffle 3 and the supporting beam 2 can then be removed, and the anti-slippage baffle 3 can be lifted from the top of the monopile foundation 1 using a crane. This allows the anti-slippage baffle 3 to be reused. Furthermore, due to the modular design of the anti-slippage baffle 3, it is applicable to various geological conditions, not limited to offshore environments, and possesses a certain degree of applicability.

[0063] In summary, this invention, a reusable device and method for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations, effectively protects against pile slippage by designing an anti-excessive slippage platform combined with a supporting beam and a detachable anti-slippage baffle. The device ensures uniform resistance distribution and provides targeted protection based on slippage depths. Furthermore, this invention is easily adjustable to different construction conditions and needs. The device is not only convenient to construct but also environmentally friendly and energy-saving, reducing potential risks and costs caused by pile slippage, and is expected to improve the safety and stability of offshore wind power foundation construction.

[0064] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Those skilled in the art can readily implement the present invention according to the description and above. However, any modifications, alterations, or variations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention, based on the disclosed technical content, are equivalent embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, any equivalent changes, alterations, or variations made to the above embodiments based on the essential technology of the present invention are still within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations, characterized in that, It includes a monopile foundation (1) and an anti-excessive pile slip platform detachably disposed on the monopile foundation (1). The anti-excessive pile slip platform includes a plurality of supporting beams (2) disposed circumferentially on the inner wall of the monopile foundation (1), and at least one of the supporting beams (2) is provided with an anti-pile slip baffle (3) in a detachable manner. The anti-slipping baffle (3) includes a main support plate (31) and several graded baffle groups (32). The main support plate (31) is radial and forms several strip plates (311) that can be installed corresponding to the supporting beam (2). At least one of the strip plates (311) is provided with an end support (312). The end support (312) can be provided on the supporting beam (2). Different graded baffle groups (32) are provided between adjacent strip plates (311). The anti-excessive pile slip platform has a gap. In the event of pile slip, the anti-excessive pile slip platform can allow water to pass through the gap and form resistance through the main support plate (31) and the graded baffle group (32) so as to prevent the single pile foundation (1) from settling. The gap includes a through hole (33) in the middle of the main support plate (31) and a water passage area formed along the axial direction of the anti-overflow pile platform; Each of the graded baffle groups (32) includes arc-shaped baffles (321) of different sizes, which are arranged sequentially along the through hole (33) to the inner wall of the single pile foundation (1).

2. The reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations according to claim 1, characterized in that, The supporting beam (2) is a groove-shaped structure with an upward opening. There are 4 to 16 supporting beams (2). The supporting beam (2) is determined according to the geometric dimensions and stress requirements of the single pile foundation (1).

3. The reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end support (312) can be fixedly connected to the supporting beam (2).

4. The reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of the arc-shaped baffles (321) is determined according to the risk level of pile slugging at the turbine location. When the risk level of pile slugging at the turbine location is high, the number of arc-shaped baffles (321) is increased, and when the risk level of pile slugging at the turbine location is low, the number of arc-shaped baffles (321) is decreased.

5. The reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations according to claim 4, characterized in that, The water passage area includes the water passage hole (322) reserved between adjacent arc-shaped baffles (321) and the gap (34) between the graded baffle group (32) and the single pile foundation (1).

6. The reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations according to claim 5, characterized in that, The size of the through hole (33), water passage hole (322) and gap (34) is designed and determined according to the diameter of the single pile foundation (1) and the requirements of seawater resistance.

7. The reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anti-excessive pile slip platform is detachably connected to the supporting beam (2).

8. A method of using a reusable device for preventing excessive pile slippage in offshore monopile foundations based on any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. When manufacturing a monopile foundation (1), a platform to prevent excessive pile slippage is installed simultaneously to form a reusable device to prevent excessive pile slippage of a marine monopile foundation. S2. The reusable device for preventing excessive slippage of the monopile foundation at sea is installed at sea. If the monopile foundation (1) slips, the platform for preventing excessive slippage will enter the water and prevent the monopile foundation (1) from sinking. If no slippage occurs in the single pile foundation (1), the anti-excessive slippage platform shall be removed after installation.

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