Bionic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring and method

Abstract

This invention discloses a biomimetic coral reef-based anti-scour device and method for offshore wind power foundations with monitoring capabilities. The device includes a biomimetic coral reef body, fixing components, an ecological reinforcement layer, and a monitoring component. The biomimetic coral reef body has a radially porous branched structure, surrounding the outer perimeter of the offshore wind power foundation, effectively reducing water scour and seabed sediment loss. The fixing components include anchor piles and connecting ropes. The anchor piles are anchored to the seabed, and the connecting ropes connect the anchor piles to the roots of the main body branches, achieving stable installation of the main body. The ecological reinforcement layer covers the outer surface of the main body, improving the device's ecological compatibility. The monitoring component is located at the main body branches and the seabed, enabling real-time monitoring of the scour status of the wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed. This device has strong scour resistance, excellent ecological adaptability, and can dynamically monitor the protective effect, ensuring the long-term stable and safe operation of the offshore wind power foundation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of offshore wind power engineering protection technology, specifically relating to a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation anti-scour device and method with monitoring capabilities. Background Technology

[0002] Offshore wind turbine foundations are subjected to continuous erosion by seawater flow, which can easily cause the loss of sediment from the seabed around the foundation, seriously affecting the stability of the foundation structure and the safe operation of wind power facilities.

[0003] Existing traditional scour prevention methods such as rock dumping and soft rafting generally have shortcomings such as poor protective effect, weak resistance to water flow scour, and poor ecological compatibility, and cannot meet the long-term stable protection requirements of offshore wind power foundations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation anti-scour device and method with monitoring, in order to solve the technical defects of traditional rock dumping and soft drainage, which have poor protection effect, weak water flow resistance and poor ecological compatibility.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: The first aspect of this application provides a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind turbine foundation scour prevention device with monitoring capabilities, comprising: The biomimetic coral reef body has a radial porous branching structure and is arranged around the outer perimeter of the offshore wind power foundation. The fixing components include anchor piles and connecting ropes. The anchor piles are anchored to the seabed, and the two ends of the connecting ropes are fixedly connected to the anchor piles and the branch roots of the biomimetic coral reef body, respectively. An ecological reinforcement layer is wrapped and fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body; The monitoring components are fixed to the main branch of the biomimetic coral reef and the seabed around the offshore wind power foundation, respectively, to monitor the scouring status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed in real time.

[0006] In one optional embodiment, the biomimetic coral reef body has three levels of radially penetrating pores inside. The diameter of each pore decreases stepwise along the radial direction from the center to the outer periphery of the biomimetic coral reef body, and the pores at each level are interconnected and penetrate the branch structure of the biomimetic coral reef body.

[0007] In one alternative embodiment, the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body are arranged radially and evenly, with an acute angle between adjacent branches.

[0008] In one alternative embodiment, the biomimetic coral reef body is formed by casting marine concrete.

[0009] In one optional embodiment, the ecological reinforcement layer is made of porous ceramic material and is fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body by a cement-based adhesive, with a marine organism attachment substrate made of coral sand or shell powder embedded inside.

[0010] In one optional embodiment, the monitoring component includes: Pressure sensors, water flow velocity sensors, and seabed settling sensors; The pressure sensor and the water flow velocity sensor are fixedly installed on the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body, and the seabed settlement sensor is buried in the seabed around the offshore wind power foundation. The pressure sensor, water flow velocity sensor, and seabed settlement sensor are all electrically connected to an external data acquisition module.

[0011] In one alternative embodiment, the pressure sensor and the water flow velocity sensor are evenly distributed at the root, middle and top of the main branch of the biomimetic coral reef.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the monitoring component further includes: Temperature and salinity sensors are fixedly installed on the branch surfaces of the biomimetic coral reef body.

[0013] In one alternative embodiment, the acquisition module is fixedly installed on the central base of the biomimetic coral reef body or on the outer wall of the offshore wind power foundation.

[0014] A second aspect of this application provides a method for preventing scour of a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind turbine foundation. The method employs the aforementioned biomimetic coral reef offshore wind turbine foundation scour prevention device with monitoring capabilities, comprising: The biomimetic coral reef body, cast in marine concrete, is arranged radially around the offshore wind power foundation and fixed by anchor piles and connecting ropes. A porous ceramic ecological reinforcement layer is coated onto the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body using a cement-based adhesive, and a bio-attachment substrate such as coral sand is embedded therein. Pressure sensors and water flow velocity sensors are evenly distributed on the main branches of the biomimetic coral reef, and settlement sensors are buried in the surrounding seabed. The pressure sensors, water flow velocity sensors, and settlement sensors are electrically connected to the data acquisition terminal.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: A biomimetic coral reef with a radially porous branching structure is arranged around the wind turbine foundation, effectively weakening the scouring effect of water flow and reducing seabed sediment loss. This solves the problems of poor protection and weak resistance to water flow scouring in traditional protection methods. The fixing components can firmly fix the main body to the seabed, further improving the overall stability of the device. The ecological reinforcement layer covering the outside of the main body can significantly improve the ecological compatibility of the device, making up for the poor ecological adaptability of existing protection measures. The monitoring components can monitor the scouring status of the wind turbine foundation and the surrounding seabed in real time, realizing dynamic control of the protection effect. Compared with existing technologies such as rock dumping and soft rafting, this device has stronger scouring resistance and better ecological adaptability, and can realize real-time monitoring throughout the entire process, ensuring the long-term stable safe operation of offshore wind turbine foundations. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 and Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation anti-scour device with monitoring provided by the present invention; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the pores in a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation anti-scour device with monitoring provided by the present invention; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the operation of a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation anti-scour device with monitoring provided by the present invention; In the diagram: 1. Main body of the biomimetic coral reef; 2. First connecting lug; 3. Second connecting lug; 4. Anchor pile; 5. Primary pore; 6. Secondary pore; 7. Tertiary pore; 8. Seabed. Detailed Implementation

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] It should be noted that 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.

[0021] To address the technical deficiencies mentioned in the background section, this embodiment provides a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device and method with monitoring capabilities.

[0022] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings: like Figures 1-4 As shown, in a first aspect of the present invention, a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation anti-scour device with monitoring is provided. The device includes a biomimetic coral reef body 1 with a radial porous branch structure, which is arranged around the outer periphery of the offshore wind power foundation; a fixing component including anchor piles 4 and connecting ropes, wherein the anchor piles 4 are anchored to the seabed 8, and the two ends of the connecting ropes are fixedly connected to the anchor piles 4 and the branch roots of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, respectively; an ecological reinforcement layer covering and fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1; and a monitoring component fixed to the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 and the seabed 8 around the offshore wind power foundation, for real-time monitoring of the scour status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed 8.

[0023] Furthermore, a first connecting ear plate 2 is integrally cast on the outer side of the branch root of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, and a second connecting ear plate 3 is correspondingly provided on the top of the anchor pile 4. The first connecting ear plate 2 and the second connecting ear plate 3 cooperate with each other to achieve reliable connection and positioning of the connecting rope. The fixing component includes the anchor pile 4 and the connecting rope. The anchor pile 4 is anchored to the seabed 8, and the two ends of the connecting rope are fixedly connected to the second connecting ear plate 3 and the first connecting ear plate 2 respectively, thereby achieving a stable connection between the anchor pile 4 and the branch root of the biomimetic coral reef body 1.

[0024] In this embodiment, the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is formed by casting marine concrete. Marine concrete has excellent resistance to seawater corrosion, freeze-thaw resistance, and erosion resistance. It can adapt to the complex marine environment and is not easily damaged or aged when immersed in seawater for a long time, thus ensuring the structural stability and service life of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 and meeting the long-term erosion protection requirements of offshore wind power foundations.

[0025] Furthermore, the marine concrete uses high-strength cement, quartz sand, crushed stone, and anti-corrosion admixtures. The cement used is marine-specific cement with a strength grade of not less than 42.5, the crushed stone is corrosion-resistant crushed stone with a particle size of 5-20mm, and the admixtures are high-efficiency water-reducing agents and rust inhibitors, which effectively improve the density and corrosion resistance of the concrete and prevent seawater erosion from causing a decrease in the strength of the main structure.

[0026] Specifically, the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 are arranged radially and evenly, extending uniformly in all directions from the offshore wind power foundation. The included angle between adjacent branches is an acute angle, preferably 30°-60°. This angle range has been verified by fluid dynamics simulation, which can maximize the dispersion of water flow impact force and slow down the water flow speed. At the same time, it ensures that the gap between branches is reasonable, avoids the formation of eddies in the gap, and further weakens the scouring effect of the water flow on the seabed 8.

[0027] In this embodiment, the number of branches of the biomimetic coral reef main body 1 is reasonably set according to the diameter of the offshore wind power foundation and the sea current conditions, usually 8-16. The branch length is 2-5m, and the branch diameter gradually decreases from the root to the top, with the root diameter being 300-500mm and the top diameter being 100-200mm. This gradual structure not only ensures the structural strength of the branches, but also further optimizes the water flow guidance effect and reduces water flow resistance.

[0028] In one optional embodiment, the biomimetic coral reef body 1 has three levels of radially penetrating pores inside. The diameter of each pore decreases stepwise along the radial direction from the center to the outer periphery of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, and the pores at each level are interconnected and penetrate the branch structure of the biomimetic coral reef body 1. The three levels of radially penetrating pores are, in order, the first-level pore 5, the second-level pore 6, and the third-level pore 7.

[0029] The primary pore 5 is located in the central area of ​​the biomimetic coral reef body 1, with a diameter of 80-120mm. It is mainly used to guide the main water flow and reduce the impact of the water flow on the central area of ​​the body. The secondary pore 6 is located outside the primary pore 5, with a diameter of 40-80mm. It is interconnected with the primary pore 5 and is used to divert the water flow guided by the primary pore 5, further slowing down the water flow speed. The tertiary pore 7 is located outside the secondary pore 6 and extends to the branch surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1. It has a diameter of 10-40mm and is used to evenly guide the diverted water flow into the marine environment to avoid the seabed 8 being eroded by the excessively fast local water flow speed.

[0030] The arrangement density of the three-level radial through-holes matches the branch structure, and they are evenly distributed from the root to the top of the branch. The spacing between the pores is 150-250mm, which ensures that the water flow can pass through the pores evenly, without affecting the structural strength of the biomimetic coral reef body 1.

[0031] During implementation, the inner walls of the pores are polished to prevent sharp edges from scratching marine life, while also reducing water resistance within the pores and improving water flow guidance. Through the synergistic effect of the three-stage radially interconnected pores, water flow energy can be effectively dispersed, water flow velocity can be slowed down, and sediment loss from the seabed can be reduced, further enhancing the anti-scour effect.

[0032] In this embodiment, the fixing component is used to firmly fix the biomimetic coral reef body 1 to the seabed 8 on the outer periphery of the offshore wind power foundation, so as to prevent the biomimetic coral reef body 1 from shifting or tilting due to the impact of seawater flow and wave fluctuations, and to ensure the continuous and stable anti-scouring effect of the device.

[0033] Furthermore, the fixing components include anchor piles 4 and connecting ropes. The anchor piles 4 are made of high-strength steel and have been hot-dip galvanized for corrosion protection, which can effectively resist seawater corrosion and extend service life. The length of the anchor piles 4 is reasonably set according to the geological conditions of the seabed 8, usually 3-8m, and the diameter is 150-250mm. The bottom of the anchor piles 4 is provided with a conical tip, which makes it easy to insert into the seabed 8 and improve the anchoring stability.

[0034] Anchor pile 4 is anchored within seabed 8. The specific anchoring depth is adjusted according to the soil type of seabed 8. For silty clay seabed, the anchoring depth is not less than 2.5m; for sandy seabed, the anchoring depth is not less than 3.5m, to ensure that anchor pile 4 can be firmly fixed to seabed 8 and is not easily pulled out or displaced.

[0035] The connecting rope is made of high-strength nylon rope or steel wire rope, which has excellent tensile strength and seawater corrosion resistance. The diameter of the connecting rope is 20-40mm, and the tensile strength is not less than 100MPa. It can withstand the impact of seawater flow and the self-weight of the bionic coral reef body 1, and avoid the main body displacement caused by the breakage of the connecting rope.

[0036] The two ends of the connecting rope are fixedly connected to the anchor pile 4 and the branch root of the bionic coral reef body 1, respectively. Specifically, one end of the connecting rope is fixedly connected to the hanging ring at the top of the anchor pile 4 through a buckle. The buckle is made of stainless steel to ensure a firm connection and prevent it from loosening. The other end of the connecting rope is fixedly connected through a pre-embedded ring embedded in the branch root of the bionic coral reef body 1. The pre-embedded ring is made of galvanized steel and is embedded in the branch root during the pouring of the bionic coral reef body 1 to tightly bond with the main concrete and ensure connection strength.

[0037] At least two connecting ropes are connected to the root of each branch, arranged symmetrically, with the connecting ropes forming an angle of 30°-45° with the horizontal direction. This arrangement can evenly distribute the water flow impact force on the biomimetic coral reef body 1 and improve the overall stability of the fixing components.

[0038] During actual installation, the number of anchor piles 4 matches the number of branches of the bionic coral reef body 1. Each branch corresponds to 1-2 anchor piles 4, which are evenly distributed on the outer side of the bionic coral reef body 1 to ensure that the bionic coral reef body 1 is subjected to uniform force in all directions, avoiding excessive local force that could cause the body to tilt or be damaged. At the same time, the tension of the connecting ropes is strictly adjusted to ensure that the bionic coral reef body 1 can be firmly fixed in the preset position and that the branches will not deform due to excessive tension.

[0039] In this embodiment, the ecological reinforcement layer is wrapped and fixed on the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1. It is mainly used to improve the ecological compatibility of the device, improve the marine ecological environment, and at the same time enhance the erosion resistance and corrosion resistance of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, thus extending the service life of the device.

[0040] The ecological reinforcement layer is made of porous ceramic material. Porous ceramic has excellent porosity, seawater corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Its porosity is 30%-50% and the pore size is 0.5-5mm. This porous structure can provide a place for marine organisms to attach and live, promote the growth and reproduction of marine organisms, improve the marine ecological environment, and solve the problem of poor ecological compatibility of traditional anti-erosion devices.

[0041] The ecological reinforcement layer is coated and fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 using a cement-based adhesive. The cement-based adhesive is a marine-grade adhesive with excellent bonding strength and seawater corrosion resistance, ensuring a tight bond between the ecological reinforcement layer and the biomimetic coral reef body 1, preventing detachment or peeling. The adhesive is applied at a thickness of 5-10mm, ensuring even application and avoiding defects such as air bubbles or hollow areas to guarantee a good bond. Before applying the adhesive, the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 needs to be sanded to remove surface laitance and debris, improving the bonding strength between the adhesive and the body.

[0042] The interior of the ecological reinforcement layer is embedded with a marine organism attachment substrate made of coral sand or shell powder. Both coral sand and shell powder are derived from the marine environment and have good compatibility with the marine ecosystem, providing a suitable attachment environment for marine organisms and promoting the attachment and growth of algae, shellfish, and other marine life on the surface of the ecological reinforcement layer. The particle size of the marine organism attachment substrate is 0.1-1mm, uniformly embedded within the ecological reinforcement layer, accounting for 20%-30% of the total volume of the ecological reinforcement layer. This ensures that the structural strength of the ecological reinforcement layer is not affected, while effectively improving the attachment effect of marine organisms.

[0043] The thickness of the ecological reinforcement layer is 10-20mm, covering the entire outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, including the roots, middle, top of the branches and the inner walls of the pores, ensuring that all parts of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 are ecologically reinforced and protected.

[0044] During construction, the ecological reinforcement layer is applied in layers. The first layer is a cement-based adhesive, into which the marine organism attachment substrate is embedded. After the first layer has cured, a second layer of adhesive is applied to ensure uniform and firm coverage. After curing, the surface of the ecological reinforcement layer forms a rough, porous structure, which is conducive to the attachment of marine organisms and increases water flow resistance, further slowing down the water flow and improving the anti-erosion effect.

[0045] In this embodiment, the monitoring components are fixed to the branch of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 and the seabed 8 around the offshore wind power foundation, respectively, to monitor the scouring status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed 8 in real time, to grasp the anti-scouring effect and the operation of the device in a timely manner, and to provide data support for subsequent maintenance and adjustment, thereby solving the problem that traditional anti-scouring devices cannot monitor in real time and are difficult to detect scouring abnormalities in a timely manner.

[0046] The monitoring components include pressure sensors, water flow velocity sensors, seabed settling sensors, temperature sensors, and salinity sensors. In one optional embodiment, pressure sensors and water flow velocity sensors are evenly distributed at the root, middle, and top of the main branch of the biomimetic coral reef. Each branch is equipped with at least three pressure sensors and three water flow velocity sensors, corresponding to the root, middle, and top of the branch, respectively, to ensure comprehensive monitoring of changes in water pressure and water flow velocity at different locations.

[0047] The pressure sensor is a waterproof pressure sensor with a measurement range of 0-10MPa and an accuracy of ±0.5%FS. It can adapt to the high water pressure environment at sea and collect pressure data of water flow on the main branch 1 of the biomimetic coral reef in real time, reflecting the magnitude of the water flow impact force. The water flow velocity sensor is an electromagnetic water flow velocity sensor with a measurement range of 0-5m / s and an accuracy of ±0.01m / s. It can collect water flow velocity data in real time, monitor the trend of water flow velocity changes, and determine the scouring intensity of water flow on the seabed 8.

[0048] The pressure sensor and water flow velocity sensor are fixed by pre-embedding or bolt fastening. For the root and middle of the biomimetic coral reef main body branch 1, the pre-embedding method is used. During the main body pouring process, the sensor is pre-embedded inside the branch, with the sensor probe exposed on the branch surface to ensure accurate data collection. For the top of the branch, the bolt fastening method is used. Mounting holes are pre-set at the top of the branch, and the sensor is fixed in the mounting holes with stainless steel bolts, which facilitates later maintenance and replacement. The surface of the sensor is waterproof and sealed with a double seal of waterproof sealing ring and sealant to prevent seawater from entering the sensor and damaging the electronic components, ensuring that the sensor can work stably in the seawater environment.

[0049] In this embodiment, the seabed settlement sensor is buried in the seabed 8 around the offshore wind power foundation to monitor the settlement of the seabed 8 in real time and determine whether the seabed 8 has experienced sediment loss or abnormal settlement. The seabed settlement sensor adopts a fiber optic settlement sensor with a measurement range of 0-500mm and an accuracy of ±1mm, which can accurately measure the settlement of the seabed 8.

[0050] Specifically, the seabed settlement sensors are buried 50-100cm below the surface of seabed 8, and are evenly distributed around the perimeter of the offshore wind turbine foundation, with one sensor every 1-2m, to ensure comprehensive monitoring of the seabed 8's settlement status. During installation, holes of a predetermined depth are excavated in the seabed 8, the sensors are placed inside, and the surrounding area is filled with fine sand to ensure close contact between the sensors and the seabed 8, enabling accurate collection of settlement data.

[0051] In this embodiment, the monitoring component also includes a temperature sensor and a salinity sensor. Both sensors are fixedly installed on the branch surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 to monitor real-time changes in seawater temperature and salinity. Changes in seawater temperature and salinity affect seawater density and flow velocity, thus influencing the scouring capacity of the water flow. This also provides data support for marine ecological environment monitoring. The temperature sensor is a waterproof type with a measurement range of -5℃ to 50℃ and an accuracy of ±0.1℃. The salinity sensor is an electrode-type salinity sensor with a measurement range of 0-40‰ and an accuracy of ±0.1‰. Both sensors are fixed to the surface of the branch of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 with bolts, and are arranged alternately with the pressure sensor and water flow velocity sensor to ensure comprehensive and accurate data acquisition.

[0052] The pressure sensor, water flow velocity sensor, seabed settling sensor, temperature sensor, and salinity sensor are all electrically connected to an external data acquisition module. The data acquisition module is used to receive and store the monitoring data collected by each sensor and transmit the data to the shore-based monitoring platform to realize real-time display and remote control of the monitoring data.

[0053] During implementation, the data acquisition module is fixedly installed on the central base of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 or on the outer wall of the offshore wind power foundation. It is preferred to install it on the central base of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, as this position is not easily affected by water flow and is convenient for wiring and maintenance.

[0054] The data acquisition module features a waterproof and corrosion-resistant design, with a stainless steel casing and a corrosion-resistant surface treatment, enabling it to withstand harsh marine environments. Internally, the module integrates a data receiving unit, a storage unit, and a wireless transmission unit. The data receiving unit receives electrical signals from various sensors and converts them into digital signals. The storage unit stores monitoring data with a capacity of at least 16GB, capable of storing at least three months of data for later retrieval and analysis. The wireless transmission unit uses 4G / 5G or satellite transmission to transmit monitoring data to the shore-based monitoring platform in real time, ensuring staff can promptly grasp the monitoring situation.

[0055] In addition, the data acquisition module is also equipped with an alarm function. When the monitored data exceeds the preset threshold, such as excessive water flow velocity, excessive seabed settlement, or sensor failure, the data acquisition module will automatically send an alarm signal, which will be transmitted to the shore-based monitoring platform through the wireless transmission unit. At the same time, it will trigger on-site audible and visual alarms to remind staff to deal with the situation in a timely manner and avoid safety hazards to offshore wind power foundations caused by abnormal scouring.

[0056] In specific implementation, marine concrete is used for the prefabrication and casting of the biomimetic coral reef main body 1. During the casting process, pre-embedded rings are embedded at the root of the branches, and sensor installation holes are preset at the root and middle of the branches. Three levels of radial through-holes are preset inside the main body to ensure that the first-level hole 5, the second-level hole 6, and the third-level hole 7 are interconnected and penetrate the branch structure.

[0057] After pouring, curing shall be carried out for no less than 28 days to ensure that the main concrete strength meets the design requirements. After curing, the outer surface of the main structure shall be ground to remove surface laitance and debris in preparation for the application of the ecological reinforcement layer.

[0058] Using a cement-based adhesive, a porous ceramic ecological reinforcement layer is layered and fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1. During the coating process, a marine organism attachment substrate made of coral sand or shell powder is evenly embedded to ensure that the ecological reinforcement layer is tightly bonded to the body, with uniform coating, no air bubbles, and no hollow areas. After the coating is completed, curing is carried out for no less than 7 days to ensure that the ecological reinforcement layer is cured and formed into a whole with the body.

[0059] Pressure sensors and water flow velocity sensors are installed at the root, middle, and top of the branches of the biomimetic coral reef main body 1 using pre-embedding or bolt fastening methods. Temperature and salinity sensors are fixed to the branch surface with bolts, ensuring that all sensors are securely installed with their probes exposed and that waterproof sealing is performed. Seabed settlement sensors are buried at predetermined locations on the seabed 8 around the offshore wind turbine foundation and secured with fine sand. Each sensor is electrically connected to the data acquisition module via waterproof cables. During wiring, the cables are protected with waterproof sleeves to prevent damage from seawater corrosion and water flow impact. The data acquisition module is fixedly installed on the central base of the biomimetic coral reef main body 1 or on the outer wall of the offshore wind turbine foundation.

[0060] Anchor pile 4 is anchored to the seabed 8 at a predetermined position around the offshore wind turbine foundation, ensuring the anchoring depth meets requirements. The biomimetic coral reef body 1 is hoisted to the predetermined position using hoisting equipment, arranged radially around the offshore wind turbine foundation, and the level of the body is adjusted to ensure stability. Anchor pile 4 is fixedly connected to the pre-embedded rings at the root of the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 using connecting ropes, and the tension of the connecting ropes is adjusted to ensure the body is stable and fixed without displacement or tilting.

[0061] After assembly, the device undergoes comprehensive commissioning to check the stability of the fixed components, the coverage of the ecological reinforcement layer, the working status of each sensor in the components, and the data receiving, storage, and transmission functions of the data acquisition module. Once the commissioning is successful, the device is officially put into use and begins to realize the functions of scour prevention and real-time monitoring of offshore wind power foundations.

[0062] In a second aspect, this invention provides a method for preventing scour of a biomimetic coral reef offshore wind turbine foundation. This method employs the aforementioned biomimetic coral reef offshore wind turbine foundation scour prevention device with monitoring capabilities, and includes: Step 1: The biomimetic coral reef body, cast in marine concrete, is arranged radially around the offshore wind power foundation and secured with anchor piles and connecting ropes. For example, firstly, the marine environment surrounding the offshore wind power foundation is surveyed, including parameters such as the geological conditions of the seabed 8, seawater flow velocity, and wave intensity. Based on the survey results, the layout location, number of branches, branch angle, and installation parameters of the fixed components of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 are determined to ensure that the layout plan conforms to the actual marine conditions and can achieve the best anti-scouring effect.

[0063] The biomimetic coral reef main body 1, constructed from marine concrete and featuring three levels of radially interconnected pores (primary pore 5, secondary pore 6, and tertiary pore 7), was hoisted to its designated position using lifting equipment. It was then arranged radially around the offshore wind turbine foundation. Specialized hoisting equipment was used during the hoisting process to ensure stability and prevent collisions or damage to the biomimetic coral reef main body 1. After placement, the main body was leveled to ensure it remained parallel to the seabed 8, guaranteeing even stress distribution.

[0064] Subsequently, the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is fixed by anchor piles 4 and connecting ropes. Anchor piles 4 are anchored into the seabed 8 at preset positions, ensuring the anchoring depth meets requirements: for silty clay seabeds, the anchoring depth is no less than 2.5m; for sandy seabeds, the anchoring depth is no less than 3.5m. One end of the connecting rope is fixedly connected to the lifting ring at the top of the anchor pile 4, and the other end is fixedly connected to the pre-embedded ring at the root of each branch of the biomimetic coral reef body 1. At least two connecting ropes are connected to each branch root, arranged symmetrically. The tension of the connecting ropes is adjusted to ensure that the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is firmly fixed in the preset position without displacement or tilting, and can withstand the impact of seawater currents and wave fluctuations.

[0065] Step 2: Using a cement-based adhesive, an ecological reinforcement layer of porous ceramic material is coated onto the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body, and a biological attachment substrate such as coral sand is embedded in it. For example, after the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is installed and fixed, the ecological reinforcement layer is assembled to improve the ecological compatibility and erosion resistance of the device. First, the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is cleaned to remove dust, debris and laitance, ensuring that the surface is flat and clean, providing a good bonding foundation for the coating of the ecological reinforcement layer.

[0066] A marine-grade cement-based adhesive is used to coat and fix the porous ceramic ecological reinforcement layer onto the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 in layers. When applying the adhesive, a uniform application method is used, with a thickness of 5-10mm, to avoid defects such as air bubbles and hollow areas. After applying the first layer of adhesive, a marine organism attachment substrate made of coral sand or shell powder is evenly embedded. The particle size of the marine organism attachment substrate is 0.1-1mm, accounting for 20%-30% of the total volume of the ecological reinforcement layer, ensuring that the substrate is evenly distributed within the ecological reinforcement layer.

[0067] After the first layer of ecological reinforcement is applied, it undergoes initial curing for at least 24 hours. Once the first layer has cured, a second layer of cement-based adhesive is applied, ensuring the ecological reinforcement layer reaches a thickness of 10-20mm. This layer covers the entire outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, including the roots, middle, and top of the branches, as well as the inner walls of the three-tiered radially penetrating pores. After the second layer is applied, full curing and maintenance are carried out for at least 7 days to ensure a tight bond between the ecological reinforcement layer and the biomimetic coral reef body 1, allowing it to solidify and effectively resist seawater corrosion and water flow impact.

[0068] Step 3: Distribute the pressure sensor and water flow velocity sensor evenly on the main branch of the biomimetic coral reef, bury the settlement sensor in the surrounding seabed, and electrically connect the pressure sensor, water flow velocity sensor, and settlement sensor to the data acquisition terminal.

[0069] For example, after the ecological reinforcement layer is solidified, the monitoring components are deployed to ensure that they can work properly and achieve real-time monitoring of the scouring status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed. First, pressure sensors and water flow velocity sensors are evenly distributed at the root, middle and top of the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 according to preset positions. Each branch is equipped with at least 3 pressure sensors and 3 water flow velocity sensors, corresponding to different positions of the branch.

[0070] For sensors at the root and middle of the branches, a pre-embedded installation method is used. The sensors are embedded into pre-set mounting holes, and their positions are adjusted to ensure the probes protrude from the branch surface, enabling accurate collection of water pressure and velocity data. Then, sealant is applied for waterproofing to prevent seawater from entering the sensor. For sensors at the top of the branches, stainless steel bolts are used to fix them into pre-set mounting holes, and waterproofing is also applied after installation.

[0071] Seabed settlement sensors are installed at predetermined locations on the seabed 8 surrounding the offshore wind turbine foundation, with one sensor every 1-2 meters, at a depth of 50-100 cm below the surface of the seabed 8. During installation, holes of the predetermined depth are first excavated on the seabed 8. The seabed settlement sensor is then placed into the hole, surrounded by fine sand, and gently compacted to ensure close contact between the sensor and the seabed 8, enabling accurate collection of seabed settlement data.

[0072] Temperature and salinity sensors were fixed to the surface of branch 1 of the biomimetic coral reef body using stainless steel bolts, and arranged alternately with pressure and water flow velocity sensors to ensure comprehensive data acquisition. After installation, all sensors were inspected to ensure they were securely installed, probes were undamaged, and waterproof seals were in place.

[0073] Each sensor is electrically connected to the data acquisition module via waterproof cables. During cabling, the cables are protected with waterproof conduits to prevent damage from seawater corrosion and water flow. The cables are laid as close as possible to the surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 to minimize the impact on water flow. The data acquisition module is fixedly installed on the central base of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 or on the outer wall of the offshore wind turbine foundation. After installation, the operation of the data acquisition module is tested to ensure that it can normally receive and store the monitoring data collected by each sensor, and transmit the data to the shore-based monitoring platform via a wireless transmission unit.

[0074] After the monitoring components were deployed and successfully debugged, the device was officially put into use and entered the anti-scouring and real-time monitoring phase. The radial porous branch structure of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 can effectively disperse the impact force of water flow and slow down the water flow speed. At the same time, the primary pores 5, secondary pores 6, and tertiary pores 7 inside the body are interconnected, which can guide the water flow and further weaken the scouring effect of the water flow on the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed 8, reduce the loss of sediment from the seabed 8, and protect the structural safety of the offshore wind power foundation.

[0075] The porous ceramic material of the ecological reinforcement layer and the embedded marine organism attachment substrate provide a habitat for marine organisms, promoting the growth and reproduction of algae, shellfish, and other marine life, improving the marine ecological environment, enhancing the device's ecological compatibility, and solving the problem of poor ecological compatibility in traditional anti-erosion devices. At the same time, the ecological reinforcement layer also enhances the erosion resistance and corrosion resistance of the biomimetic coral reef body 1, extending the device's service life.

[0076] The sensors of the monitoring components collect relevant data in real time. The pressure sensor collects the pressure data of the water flow on the main branch 1 of the biomimetic coral reef in real time, reflecting the magnitude of the water flow impact force; the water flow velocity sensor collects the water flow velocity data in real time, and monitors the changing trend of the water flow velocity; the seabed settlement sensor collects the settlement data of seabed 8 in real time, and determines whether seabed 8 has experienced sediment loss or settlement anomalies; the temperature sensor and salinity sensor collect the temperature and salinity data of seawater in real time, providing support for the analysis of water flow scouring capacity and marine ecological environment.

[0077] The electrical signals collected by each sensor are transmitted to the data acquisition module, which converts the electrical signals into digital signals and stores them in the internal storage unit. At the same time, the real-time monitoring data is transmitted to the shore-based monitoring platform through the wireless transmission unit. Staff can view the monitoring data in real time through the shore-based monitoring platform and keep track of the scouring status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed, as well as the operation of the equipment.

[0078] To ensure the continuous and stable operation of the anti-scouring device, it is necessary to perform regular maintenance and adjustments based on the real-time data collected by the monitoring components. Staff monitor data changes in real time through a shore-based monitoring platform. When the monitored data exceeds preset thresholds, such as excessive water flow velocity, excessive seabed subsidence, or sensor malfunction, the data acquisition module will automatically issue an alarm signal, and staff will promptly arrive at the scene to investigate and resolve the issue.

[0079] In cases of excessive water flow velocity or excessive seabed settlement, check the fixation status of the fixing components. If the connecting ropes are loose, adjust the tension promptly. If anchor pile 4 is displaced, re-anchor anchor pile 4 to ensure the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is firmly fixed. At the same time, check whether the biomimetic coral reef body 1 and the ecological reinforcement layer are damaged or detached. If there is any damage, repair it promptly to ensure the anti-erosion effect.

[0080] In case of sensor failure, promptly repair, calibrate, or replace the faulty sensor to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the monitoring data. Regularly inspect the data acquisition module, clean away any marine organisms and debris adhering to the surface, and check the signal strength of the wireless transmission unit to ensure the data acquisition module is functioning properly.

[0081] In addition, the surface of the biomimetic coral reef body 1 is regularly inspected for marine organism attachment. If excessive marine organisms are attached, affecting water flow and sensor operation, they can be cleaned appropriately to ensure the device's anti-scouring effect and monitoring function function properly. At the same time, the fixing components and ecological reinforcement layer are regularly inspected and maintained to promptly identify and resolve potential problems, extend the device's service life, and ensure long-term stable and safe operation of the offshore wind power foundation.

[0082] The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device and method with monitoring proposed in this application have the following significant advantages compared with existing traditional scour prevention technologies such as rock dumping and soft rafting: First, the biomimetic coral reef body 1 adopts a radial porous branch structure, combined with three levels of radially penetrating pores, which can effectively disperse the impact force of water flow, slow down the water flow speed, and reduce the loss of seabed sediment. Compared with traditional rock dumping protection, the anti-scouring effect is improved by more than 30%. The fixing components firmly fix the body through anchor piles 4 and connecting ropes, which can resist the impact of strong water flow and strong waves, avoid displacement of the body, and further enhance the anti-scouring stability.

[0083] Secondly, it has good ecological compatibility. The ecological reinforcement layer is made of porous ceramic material and is embedded with marine organism attachment substrates made of coral sand or shell powder. It can provide a place for marine organisms to attach and live, promote the restoration and improvement of the marine ecosystem, solve the problem of poor ecological compatibility and damage to the marine ecological environment of traditional anti-scour devices, and achieve the coordinated development of anti-scour and ecological protection.

[0084] Third, it enables real-time monitoring. The monitoring components cover multiple monitoring indicators such as pressure, water flow velocity, seabed subsidence, temperature, and salinity. It can comprehensively and in real-time monitor the scouring status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed and changes in the marine environment. The data acquisition module transmits data to the shore-based monitoring platform in real time via wireless transmission. Staff can promptly grasp the operation status of the device and the scouring status, promptly discover and deal with safety hazards, and avoid damage to the offshore wind power foundation due to abnormal scouring.

[0085] Fourth, the structure is stable and has a long service life. The biomimetic coral reef body 1 is cast with marine concrete, which has excellent resistance to seawater corrosion, freeze-thaw resistance and erosion resistance. The ecological reinforcement layer can enhance the corrosion resistance and structural stability of the body. All components have undergone anti-corrosion and waterproof treatment, which can adapt to the complex marine environment. Compared with traditional soft hull protection (service life of 5-8 years), the service life is significantly extended and the maintenance cost is reduced.

[0086] Fifth, the construction is simple and highly adaptable. The biomimetic coral reef main body 1 can be precast and cast, and then hoisted and deployed on site, resulting in high construction efficiency. The installation process of the fixed components and monitoring components is simple and easy to operate. The structural design of the device can be adjusted according to the water flow conditions and seabed geological conditions of different sea areas, and parameters such as the number of branches, branch angles, and pore sizes can be adjusted. It is highly adaptable and can be widely used for scour protection of various offshore wind power foundations.

[0087] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring, characterized in that, include: The biomimetic coral reef body has a radial porous branching structure and is arranged around the outer perimeter of the offshore wind power foundation. The fixing components include anchor piles and connecting ropes. The anchor piles are anchored to the seabed, and the two ends of the connecting ropes are fixedly connected to the anchor piles and the branch roots of the biomimetic coral reef body, respectively. An ecological reinforcement layer is wrapped and fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body; The monitoring components are fixed to the main branch of the biomimetic coral reef and the seabed around the offshore wind power foundation, respectively, to monitor the scouring status of the offshore wind power foundation and the surrounding seabed in real time.

2. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 1, characterized in that, The biomimetic coral reef body has three levels of radially penetrating pores inside. The diameter of each pore decreases stepwise along the radial direction from the center to the outer periphery of the biomimetic coral reef body, and the pores at each level are interconnected and penetrate the branch structure of the biomimetic coral reef body.

3. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 1, characterized in that, The branches of the biomimetic coral reef body are arranged radially and evenly, and the included angle between adjacent branches is an acute angle.

4. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 1, characterized in that, The biomimetic coral reef body is formed by casting marine concrete.

5. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ecological reinforcement layer is made of porous ceramic material and is fixed to the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body by a cement-based adhesive. The interior is embedded with a marine organism attachment substrate made of coral sand or shell powder.

6. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 1, characterized in that, The monitoring components include: Pressure sensors, water flow velocity sensors, and seabed settling sensors; The pressure sensor and the water flow velocity sensor are fixedly installed on the branches of the biomimetic coral reef body, and the seabed settlement sensor is buried in the seabed around the offshore wind power foundation. The pressure sensor, water flow velocity sensor, and seabed settlement sensor are all electrically connected to an external data acquisition module.

7. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 6, characterized in that, The pressure sensor and water flow velocity sensor are evenly distributed at the root, middle and top of the main branches of the biomimetic coral reef.

8. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 6, characterized in that, The monitoring component also includes: Temperature and salinity sensors are fixedly installed on the branch surfaces of the biomimetic coral reef body.

9. The biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring according to claim 6, characterized in that, The acquisition module is fixedly installed on the central base of the biomimetic coral reef body or on the outer wall of the offshore wind power foundation.

10. A biomimetic coral reef offshore wind turbine foundation scour prevention method, characterized in that, The method employs the biomimetic coral reef offshore wind power foundation scour prevention device with monitoring as described in any one of claims 1-9, comprising: The biomimetic coral reef body, cast in marine concrete, is arranged radially around the offshore wind power foundation and fixed by anchor piles and connecting ropes. A porous ceramic ecological reinforcement layer is coated onto the outer surface of the biomimetic coral reef body using a cement-based adhesive, and a bio-attachment substrate such as coral sand is embedded therein. Pressure sensors and water flow velocity sensors are evenly distributed on the main branches of the biomimetic coral reef, and settlement sensors are buried in the surrounding seabed. The pressure sensors, water flow velocity sensors, and settlement sensors are electrically connected to the data acquisition terminal.

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