A mooring structure for a combined floating offshore photovoltaic

Abstract

This invention discloses a mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system, relating to the field of marine photovoltaic power generation technology. It includes several floating bodies assembled into an annular platform via connectors. Cables are movably connected to the sides of the annular platform via a V-shaped connection structure. An anchorage is connected to the end of the cable furthest from the floating body. Bearing hooks are arranged in a circular array on the sidewalls of the floating bodies, with ring clamps penetrating the hooks. These ring clamps are movably connected to the V-shaped connection structure. This invention connects the photovoltaic platform to the anchorage via elastic cables, effectively coping with dynamic loads from waves, currents, and strong winds. It avoids structural damage caused by stress concentration in traditional fixing methods, significantly improving the stability and reliability of the photovoltaic platform structure under harsh sea conditions. Furthermore, compared to traditional structures, the connection and fixing method of this invention is simpler to install and maintain, significantly reducing the construction and operation costs of marine floating photovoltaic projects.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine photovoltaic power generation technology, specifically to a mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the global energy structure is rapidly shifting towards clean energy. Among the many clean energy sources, solar energy has attracted much attention due to its clean and renewable characteristics. Floating photovoltaic power generation systems, as a new form of solar energy application, have become the focus of new energy research due to their unique advantages.

[0003] Compared with land-based photovoltaic power generation, offshore floating photovoltaic power generation has obvious advantages. It does not need to compete with land for resources. The vast ocean space allows photovoltaic modules to receive sunlight without being shaded, which greatly improves the utilization rate of solar energy. Moreover, the natural cooling effect of seawater on photovoltaic modules can further improve power generation efficiency.

[0004] However, the marine environment is extremely harsh. Raging waves, turbulent currents, and strong sea winds will continuously exert complex dynamic loads on the photovoltaic system. Traditional rigid connection fixing methods are prone to stress concentration after bearing these loads for a long time, which can lead to premature damage to structural components or even cause overall system instability.

[0005] When encountering extremely severe sea conditions, traditional fixed methods are insufficient in disaster resistance, and photovoltaic systems may be severely damaged, resulting in huge economic losses. Moreover, the installation of traditional fixed structures relies on large mechanical equipment, which makes construction difficult and subsequent maintenance troublesome, significantly increasing the construction and operation costs of the project.

[0006] In view of these problems, the present invention provides a mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem this invention aims to solve is to overcome existing defects and provide a mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system. By connecting the photovoltaic platform to the anchorage via elastic cables, it can effectively cope with dynamic loads from waves, currents, and strong winds, avoiding structural damage caused by stress concentration in traditional fixing methods. This significantly improves the stability and reliability of the photovoltaic platform structure under harsh sea conditions. Furthermore, compared to traditional structures, the connection and fixing method of this invention is simpler to install and maintain, significantly reducing the construction and operation costs of floating marine photovoltaic projects, and effectively solving the problems in the background art.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system, comprising several floats, which are assembled into an annular floating platform by connectors;

[0009] The side of the annular floating platform is movably connected to a cable via a V-shaped connection structure, and the end of the cable away from the floating body is connected to an anchoring seat.

[0010] The sidewall of the float is provided with a circumferential array of carrying hooks, and a ring hoop is provided through the carrying hook. The ring hoop is movably connected to the V-shaped connection structure.

[0011] The V-shaped connection structure includes several sets of interlocking components, two steel cables arranged in a V-shape, and a loop assembly.

[0012] Preferably, both ends of the steel cable are provided with a retaining sleeve, each set of interlocking components includes two interlocking components, the open ends of the two steel cables are respectively connected to the two interlocking components in the same set through the retaining sleeve, and the closed ends of the two steel cables are jointly connected to the loop fastener through the retaining sleeve.

[0013] Preferably, the side of the annular floating platform is provided with several sets of lifting rings in a circumferential array, each set of lifting rings containing two lifting rings. The two open ends of the steel cable are respectively connected to the two lifting rings in the same set through a bundle sleeve. The lifting rings and the ring clamps are alternately connected to the V-shaped connection structure along the side of the annular floating platform.

[0014] Preferably, the cable is made of an elastic material.

[0015] Preferably, the interlocking assembly includes a latch, a limiting pin, and a nut. The latch has a "U"-shaped structure, with the ends of the latch passing through the sleeve and the ring in sequence. The limiting pin passes through both ends of the latch, and the ends of the latch are threaded with a nut.

[0016] Preferably, the ring assembly includes a connecting ring and a connecting buckle, wherein the connecting ring is sleeved with the end sleeve of the steel cable, the connecting buckle is sleeved on the connecting ring, and the connecting buckle is sleeved with the end loop of the cable.

[0017] Preferably, the connector includes a connecting seat, which is in the shape of an "I" and its two sides respectively mate with the ends of two adjacent floats. An elastic pad is provided between the side wall of the connecting seat and the end of the float.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0019] 1. The cable of the present invention is made of elastic materials such as nylon cable or synthetic fiber cable, which can absorb the dynamic load of waves, ocean currents and strong winds through elastic stretching, reduce the risk of damage to structural components. The floats are connected by "I" shaped connectors, and the rubber elastic pads at the connection can absorb high-frequency micro-vibrations, reduce collision wear, improve structural durability, and effectively cope with the impact of complex marine environments.

[0020] 2. The float assembly of the present invention is a ring-shaped floating platform. The ring structure is used to distribute the impact force evenly along the circumference to avoid local overload. Two steel cables arranged in a V-shape form a bifurcated force structure through a bundle sleeve and interlocking components and a ring buckle component to disperse the peak load at a single point. The connection between the steel cable and the float and the cable is a movable component, which allows movement in all directions to adapt to changes in the direction of ocean currents and waves and reduce rigid tensile damage.

[0021] 3. This invention utilizes the rings and lifting rings on the sidewall of the floating body to alternately connect with the V-shaped connection structure along the circumference, forming a dual-path anchoring system. When one link fails, the adjacent link can take over the load to avoid chain damage. Two rings are set up, one above the other, and both are connected to the cable through the V-shaped structure to achieve double protection. Even if one ring breaks, the other ring can still maintain the anchoring function and ensure the reliability of the system.

[0022] 4. This invention uses a hydraulic buffer rod hinged to the bottom of the floating body, combined with an adjustable counterweight box filled with hollow steel balls and polymer. In extreme weather conditions, the hydraulic buffer rod automatically extends and retracts to correct the attitude of the floating platform. The counterweight box generates a righting torque through the shift of the center of gravity to resist the overturning force of wind and waves. The segmented elastic sheath of the outer layer of the main anchor chain can compress and dissipate energy step by step. Even if the ring and lifting ring links fail, the remaining impact force can still be borne by the seabed gravity anchor, reducing the risk of capsizing.

[0023] 5. The floating body of this invention is assembled through a standardized "I"-shaped connector. The V-shaped connection structure uses detachable components such as locks and nuts, which can complete the installation and maintenance without large mechanical equipment, simplifying the construction process. The flexible connection and multiple protection design reduce the probability of structural damage and reduce the frequency of later maintenance, balancing construction costs and operational economy. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the basic structure of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another state structure of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 For the present invention Figure 2 Enlarged structural diagram at point A in the middle;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the axial structure of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 For the present invention Figure 4 Enlarged structural diagram at point B;

[0029] Figure 6 For the present invention Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of the central part of the structure;

[0030] Figure 7 For the present invention Figure 6 Enlarged structural diagram at point C;

[0031] Figure 8 For the present invention Figure 6 Enlarged structural diagram at point D.

[0032] In the diagram: 1. Float; 2. Connecting seat; 3. Elastic pad; 4. Anchor seat; 5. Cable; 6. Lock; 7. Ring; 8. Limiting pin; 9. Bearing hook; 10. Nut; 11. Bundle; 12. Steel cable; 13. Connecting ring; 14. Connecting buckle; 15. Lifting ring. Detailed Implementation

[0033] 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. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0034] Example 1

[0035] Please see Figure 1 This embodiment provides a mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system, including several floats 1. The floats 1 are assembled into an annular platform by connecting parts. The annular design enhances overall stability, disperses the impact of sea waves, and avoids local stress concentration. The floats 1 adopt a box structure made of concrete, and the buoyancy of the floats 1 can be changed by adjusting the water flow rate.

[0036] The connector includes a connector 2, which has an "I" shaped structure. The two sides of the connector 2 are respectively engaged with the ends of two adjacent floats 1. An elastic pad 3 is provided between the side wall of the connector 2 and the end of the float 1. The I-shaped connector 2 uses the protruding structures on both sides to embed into the ends of the adjacent floats 1 to achieve lateral locking. The elastic pad 3 is used to fill the gap between the float 1 and the connector 2, absorb wave impact energy, reduce structural wear, and prevent the floats 1 from colliding with each other. The elastic pad 3 is preferably made of rubber.

[0037] The side of the annular floating platform is movably connected to a cable 5 via a V-shaped connection structure. The cable 5 is made of elastic material. The end of the cable 5 away from the floating body 1 is connected to an anchor 4. The cable 5 is made of elastic material to provide the main cushioning function to adapt to the undulation of the waves. The elastic material of the cable 5 can be nylon cable or synthetic fiber cable.

[0038] The sidewall of the float 1 is provided with a circular array of bearing hooks 9, and a ring hoop 7 is provided through the bearing hook 9. The ring hoop 7 is movably connected to the V-shaped connection structure. The material of the ring hoop connection system is determined according to the size of the structure and the uniform stress. It can be polyurethane high-strength cable, steel wire rope, rigid anchor chain, etc. The ring hoop 7 passes through the bearing hook 9 to realize the flexible connection between the float 1 and the V-shaped structure, allowing the float 1 to swing slightly to offset part of the impact force of the waves.

[0039] The V-shaped connection structure includes several sets of interlocking components, two V-shaped steel cables 12, and a loop assembly. Both ends of the steel cables 12 are provided with a retaining sleeve 11. The open ends of the two steel cables 12 are connected to two interlocking components in the same set through the retaining sleeve 11, and the closed ends of the two steel cables 12 are connected to the loop assembly through the retaining sleeve 11. The two steel cables are arranged in a 12V shape to form a bifurcated force-bearing structure to distribute the load on the float 1. The retaining sleeve 11 is formed by bending the ends of the steel cables 12 and fixing them with metal loops.

[0040] Each set of interlocking components includes two interlocking components, including a latch 6, a limiting pin 8, and a nut 10. The latch 6 has a "U" shaped structure, with the end of the latch 6 passing through the sleeve 11 and the ring 7 in sequence. The limiting pin 8 passes through both ends of the latch 6, and the end of the latch 6 is threadedly connected to the nut 10.

[0041] Specifically, the buckle 6 passes through the sleeve 11 and the ring 7 to achieve physical locking, and the limiting pin 8 is inserted laterally into the end of the buckle 6 to prevent the buckle 6 from falling off, thus achieving the connection between the steel cable 12 and the ring 7.

[0042] The ring assembly includes a connecting ring 13 and a connecting buckle 14. The connecting ring 13 is sleeved with the sleeve 11 at the end of the steel cable 12, and the connecting buckle 14 is sleeved on the connecting ring 13 and sleeved with the collar at the end of the cable 5.

[0043] Specifically, the connection between the connecting ring 13 and the sleeve 11, the connection between the connecting buckle 14 and the connecting ring 13, and the connection between the connecting buckle 14 and the end loop of the cable 5 form a multi-level movable structure, which avoids rigid tension and allows free movement in all directions, thereby adapting to changes in the direction of ocean currents and waves.

[0044] When in use, when wave impact force is applied to the annular floating platform 1, the annular structure distributes the load evenly along the circumference to avoid stress concentration. The elastic pads 3 inside the I-shaped connecting seats 2 between the floating bodies 1 absorb high-frequency micro-vibrations.

[0045] The load is transferred to two V-shaped steel cables 12 via the load-bearing hook 9, effectively reducing the peak load at a single point. At the same time, the elastic deformation of the steel cable 12 temporarily stores some energy. The remaining load is gathered to the cable 5 via the connecting ring 13 and the connecting buckle 14. The elastic tension of the cable 5 is used for buffering. Then, the elastic restoring force of the cable 5 is used to drive the annular floating platform to return to its stable position, effectively preventing the floating body 1 from being thrown by wind and waves and losing stability.

[0046] For further details, please refer to Figure 5 To prevent the anchoring effect of the anchor seat 4 on the float 1 from failing due to the breakage of one of the ring hoops 7, two ring hoops 7 are provided on the vertical side of the annular floating platform. Both ring hoops 7 are connected to the anchor seat 4 through a V-shaped connection structure and a cable 5, achieving double protection. That is, if one ring hoop 7 fails, the other ring hoop 7 can be used to anchor and limit the float 1.

[0047] Example 2

[0048] However, if the two rings 7, the V-shaped connection structure connected to the rings 7, and the cable 5 all break or fail due to other malfunctions, the float 1 will become unbalanced or even deviate from its intended sea position, affecting the overall safety. Therefore, the following improvements are made:

[0049] Please see Figure 2-4 and Figure 6-8 The annular floating platform has several sets of lifting rings 15 arranged in a circular array on its side. Each set of lifting rings 15 contains two lifting rings 15. The two open ends of the steel cable 12 are respectively connected to the two lifting rings 15 in the same set through the clamp 11. The lifting rings 15 and the ring hoops 7 are alternately connected to the V-shaped connection structure along the side of the annular floating platform. By first drilling holes in the concrete floating body 1, then hammering or screwing bolts into the holes, and then anchoring them through an expansion mechanism or chemical adhesive, a reliable connection between the floating body 1 and the lifting rings 15 is achieved, ensuring that the load-bearing components can transmit tensile and shear forces to the floating body 1, achieving the purpose of stability and durability.

[0050] In use, the hoop 7 and the lifting ring 15 are alternately anchored to form a dual-path anchoring system. When the mooring link connected to the hoop 7 fails, the V-shaped connection structure connected to the lifting ring 15 redistributes the load through the tension of the steel cable 12. The lifting ring 15 takes over the impact force from the wind and waves from the hoop 7. Thus, if the hoop 7 and the V-shaped connection structure and cable 5 connected to it break or fail, the lifting ring 15 and the V-shaped connection structure, cable 5 and anchor seat 4 on the same link will still provide support and load transfer path, thereby reducing the risk of chain damage to the entire structure.

[0051] Example 3

[0052] In use, under extreme conditions such as typhoons and tsunamis, the buffering capacity of the existing mooring structure may reach its limit. There is a risk that the entire annular floating platform may overturn due to the overload and breakage of the mooring links of Ring 7 and Ring 15. Furthermore, it lacks a self-protection and rapid recovery mechanism under extreme conditions. Therefore, the following improvements are made:

[0053] A cross-shaped connecting frame is provided at the center of the bottom of the annular floating platform. All four ends of the connecting frame are hinged to the bottom of the float 1 through hydraulic buffer rods. An adjustable counterweight box is suspended below the center of the connecting frame. The counterweight box is filled with composite granular material with variable density. The composite granular material is preferably hollow steel balls and polymer.

[0054] The bottom of the counterweight box is connected to the main anchor chain via a universal joint. The end of the main anchor chain away from the float 1 is connected to the seabed gravity anchor. The main anchor chain is wrapped with a segmented elastic sheath. Each segment of the elastic sheath can deform independently. The elastic pin is made of spring steel core and covered with polyurethane material on the outside.

[0055] In use, under extreme conditions, when both the 7-ring mooring link and the 15-ring mooring link fail, the hydraulic buffer rods at the four ends of the crossbar automatically extend and retract the moment the annular float tilts. That is, the sinking side of the annular float contracts and the lifting side extends, quickly correcting the attitude of the annular float. At the same time, the hollow steel balls in the counterweight box flow to the tilted side, changing the center of gravity of the annular float and generating a righting torque, similar to the principle of a roly-poly toy, to counteract the overturning force of wind and waves, and to achieve active correction and reset of the annular float under extreme conditions.

[0056] The remaining impact force from the wind and waves is transmitted to the central anchor chain via the universal joint. The segmented elastic sheath of the central anchor chain is compressed and deformed in stages to dissipate energy. Finally, the remaining impact force is borne by the seabed gravity anchor, thereby further improving the wind and wave resistance of the annular floating platform when both the circumference hoop 7 mooring link and the lifting ring 15 mooring link fail.

[0057] The above description is merely an embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the content of the present invention's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system, comprising several floats (1), characterized in that, The individual floats (1) are assembled into an annular floating platform by connecting parts; The side of the annular floating platform is movably connected to a cable (5) via a V-shaped connection structure, and the end of the cable (5) away from the floating body (1) is connected to an anchor (4). The sidewall of the float (1) is provided with a circumferential array of bearing hooks (9), and a ring hoop (7) is provided through the bearing hook (9). The ring hoop (7) is movably connected to the V-shaped connection structure. The V-shaped connection structure includes several sets of interlocking components, two steel cables (12) arranged in a V-shape, and a ring buckle assembly; Both ends of the steel cable (12) are provided with a buckle (11). Each set of interlocking components includes two interlocking components. The open ends of the two steel cables (12) are connected to the two interlocking components in the same set through the buckle (11) respectively. The closed ends of the two steel cables (12) are connected to the ring buckle component through the buckle (11). The side of the annular floating platform is provided with several sets of lifting rings (15) arranged in a circular array. Each set of lifting rings (15) contains two lifting rings (15). The two open ends of the steel cable (12) are respectively connected to the two lifting rings (15) in the same set through the bundle sleeve (11). The lifting rings (15) and the ring hoop (7) are alternately connected to the V-shaped connection structure along the side of the annular floating platform. The ring buckle assembly includes a connecting ring (13) and a connecting buckle (14). The connecting ring (13) is sleeved with the sleeve (11) at the end of the steel cable (12), and the connecting buckle (14) is sleeved on the connecting ring (13). The connecting buckle (14) is sleeved with the collar at the end of the cable (5). The connector includes a connector (2), which is in the shape of an "I" and the connector is embedded into the end of an adjacent float by means of the protruding structure on both sides.

2. The mooring structure for the combined floating marine photovoltaic system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cable (5) is made of an elastic material.

3. The mooring structure for the combined floating marine photovoltaic system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The interlocking assembly includes a buckle (6), a limiting pin (8), and a nut (10). The buckle (6) has a "U" shaped structure. The end of the buckle (6) passes through the sleeve (11) and the ring (7) in sequence. The limiting pin (8) passes through both ends of the buckle (6). The end of the buckle (6) is threaded with a nut (10).

4. The mooring structure for a combined floating marine photovoltaic system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The two sides of the connecting seat (2) are respectively engaged with the ends of the two adjacent floats (1), and an elastic pad (3) is provided between the side wall of the connecting seat (2) and the end of the float (1).

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