Connecting structure, supporting structure and floating body

Abstract

Connecting structure (4) for connecting floats (2a, b, c, d), wherein the connecting structure (4) allows damping of translational or rotational relative movements of the floats (2a, b, c, d) to each other, • with a first damping device (12) for damping relative movements in the vertical direction and • with a second damping device (14) for damping relative movements in the horizontal direction, which is rotatably mounted about a vertical axis (z) on the first damping device (12) and which has two connecting arms (48a, 48b) for coupling to each of the floats (2a, b, c, d), wherein • the connecting arms (48a, 48b) can each be movably attached in the vertical direction to the first damping device (12) and to the floats (2a, b, c, d), and wherein • a third damping device (16) is attached to the first damping device (12) with at least one Connecting arm (48a,48b) is arranged to dampen relative movements in the horizontal direction between the floats (2a, b, c, d) and another float (2a, b, c, d).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connecting structure for connecting floating bodies, wherein the connecting structure allows damping of translational or rotational relative movements of the floating bodies to one another, a supporting structure with at least two floating bodies and a floating body for receiving work modules, living modules and the like.

[0002] Living and working modules at sea, such as floating harbors with attached living areas for workers or repair platforms for offshore wind turbines, show a positive effect in terms of efficiency with increasing size and number of floating bodies accommodating the modules. At the same time, due to the hydrodynamic requirements, developing a suitable connection type for the floating bodies presents a challenge. Previous approaches to coupling offshore structures can be divided into two groups: flexible and rigidly coupled systems.

[0003] Rigid couplings, in which several floating bodies are combined to form a rigid floating structure, result in significant material stress and are only suitable for limited float sizes. Considering a coupling in one spatial direction, long waves incident parallel to the coupling would result in enormous bending moments due to the leverage effect. Entire floating bodies could be lifted out of the water by the pitching moment, and the entire load of these floating bodies would have to be borne by the coupling. Furthermore, rolling movements around the coupling axis would result in enormous transverse forces as well as bending and torsional moments in the connection.

[0004] If the coupling is extended to a second horizontal spatial direction, perpendicular to the first, a rigid coupling, for example, with four bodies arranged in a 2x2 matrix formation, results in a mechanically overdetermined system. Even if the individual floating bodies are not fully loaded on the connections, large forces arise in the connections, since the bodies can be accelerated in different directions, especially in obliquely approaching waves, which lead to a coupled rolling and pitching motion.

[0005] Due to these limitations, the use of large structures has so far been restricted to protected marine areas. Protected marine areas facilitate their use, as the wavelengths are usually limited to lengths whose excitation frequencies lie far from the resonance zones of the large structures.

[0006] A well-known rigid structure is the so-called Mega-Float project by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Hydraulic and pneumatic systems operating in the normal direction to the connection plane, as well as a positive locking system for coupling the transverse forces and moments, are used to connect the up to 300-meter-long floating bodies and suppress relative movement. In this way, an approximately 1000-meter-long floating runway was assembled, on which aircraft landings have been successfully conducted. Information on the Mega-Float project is available at https: / / www.mhi.co.jp / technology / review / pdf / e382 / e382039.pdf.

[0007] Flexible couplings must absorb the strong forces that occur during relative movements and prevent collisions between the floating bodies. In particular, bending moments caused by yawing or combined rolling and pitching movements require massive mechanical connecting structures. These have the disadvantage that large connecting structures are in turn exposed to the impact loads of waves. Furthermore, in flexibly coupled systems, the stresses on the moving parts under the influence of extreme weather conditions on the open sea are a significant factor, leading to a limited service life. However, in floating systems, the coupling function must be maintained even in severe weather conditions. A flexible coupling for large floating structures is available at https: / / www.sciencedirect.com / science / article / pii / S1876380416301276.

[0008] The object of the invention is to create a connecting structure for connecting floating bodies that allows for reliable damping of translational or rotational relative movements of the floating bodies. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to create a floating support structure whose floating bodies are reliably damped relative to one another and to create an improved floating body for accommodating work modules, living modules, and the like.

[0009] This object is achieved by a connecting structure having the features of patent claim 1, by a supporting structure having the features of patent claim 12 and by a floating body having the features of patent claim 15.

[0010] A connecting structure according to the invention for connecting floating bodies suitable for accommodating work modules, living modules, and the like allows for damping of translational or rotational relative movements of the floating bodies relative to one another. It has a first damping device for damping relative movements in the vertical direction and a second damping device for damping relative movements in the horizontal direction. The second damping device is mounted on the first damping device so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis. It also has two connecting arms for coupling to one of the floating bodies each. The connecting arms can each be fastened to the first damping device and to the floating bodies so as to be movable in the vertical direction.

[0011] The connecting structure according to the invention allows relative movement while simultaneously limiting the amplitudes with regard to the distance between the floats and their relative position. The connecting structures decouple rotational loads (moments) and dampen the relative translational movements of the floats. The terms vertical direction and horizontal direction refer to the installation orientation and position of the connecting structures in calm seas. The vertical direction then extends perpendicular to the water surface, and the horizontal direction extends along the water surface. The connecting arms can be arranged on opposite sides of the first damping device, so that the floats are virtually opposite each other in a horizontal axis in calm seas. The connecting structure is then located centrally between the floats.Alternatively, the connecting arms can be arranged offset from one another by, for example, 90° on the first damping device, so that the floating bodies are then arranged at a right angle to one another.

[0012] The two end joints of a connecting arm can be designed as a ball joint. The ball joints increase the degrees of freedom. The floating bodies can tilt relative to the connecting structure and thus relative to one another. In a preferred embodiment, a shaft bearing and an additional ball joint are provided on the damping device side. In this embodiment, a ball bearing is provided on the floating body side. This enables relative movements of the connecting structure and the floating body, such as rolling, pitching, and yawing movements. In particular, it is also conceivable to provide only one ball joint in a connecting arm instead of one ball joint at each end of the connecting arm and / or at least one shaft bearing. The one central ball joint divides the connecting arm into two arm sections that can pivot relative to one another about all axes.

[0013] In order to be able to connect at least one further floating body to the connecting structure, it is advantageous if a third damping device is arranged on the first damping device with at least one connecting arm for damping relative movements in the horizontal direction between the two floating bodies and a further floating body. From a device engineering point of view, it is advantageous if the third damping device is designed in the same way as the second damping device and can accordingly also have two articulated connecting arms. If the two connecting arms of the second damping device are arranged opposite one another and the two connecting arms of the third damping device are arranged opposite one another and the two pairs of connecting arms orIf the second and third damping devices are arranged offset by 90° from one another on the first damping device, four floating bodies can be flexibly connected to one another in a damping manner via the connecting structure. The second and third damping devices are then arranged vertically offset on the first damping device. The second and third damping devices can also be arranged on the first damping device so that they can be displaced relative to one another in the vertical direction. The third damping device is either also mounted on the first damping device so that it can rotate about the vertical axis or, alternatively, is connected to the first damping device in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0014] At least one form of damping provides for the damping devices to be equipped with at least one pressure chamber filled with damping fluid. Particularly when the damping fluid is air, this already exhibits an inherent damping effect due to its compressibility. To adjust the damping, the air can be pre-charged as compressed air. The air can be obtained from the environment as outside air. Preferably, the pressure chambers can be assembled and disassembled during operation of the connecting structure.

[0015] At least one of the damping devices can also have at least two pressure chambers, the volumes of which can be individually varied during a relative movement of the floating bodies. Preferably, the first (vertical) damping device has two pressure chambers that expand or contract independently of one another, and the second and third (horizontal) damping devices each preferably have a single damping chamber per connecting arm. This provides particularly effective damping of passing waves.

[0016] At least one section of a damping device can be adjustable in length to form a volume-variable pressure chamber. In a preferred embodiment, each damping device is adjustable in length. The length variability can be achieved, for example, in the damping device(s) with two pressure chambers via two telescopic rods arranged in alignment with one another, each of which is encompassed by a flexible, fluid-tight bellows, so that pressure cushions are formed. The telescopic rods themselves can be preloaded in one direction, for example in their extension direction, for example via a spring device in the form of a compression or torsion spring. Likewise, the telescopic rods can have at least one pressure chamber, in particular a compressed air chamber, for preloading within their rod elements. The telescopic rods preferably have mechanical end stops to limit a maximum retraction movement and a maximum extension movement.For damping devices each with a single pressure chamber, a single one of the previously described telescopic rods is conceivable. Preferably, the at least one telescopic rod of the second and third damping devices forms part of the connecting arms, so that their length is adjustable and the at least one pressure chamber represents an integral component of the connecting arms.

[0017] The pressure chambers can be sealed fluid-tight from each other. This increases reliability, as each pressure chamber has its own damping effect. Furthermore, the individual damping levels can be individually adjusted. Furthermore, assembly and disassembly of the pressure chambers are simplified.

[0018] Alternatively, the pressure chambers, particularly of a damping device, can be fluidly connected to one another. This allows the damping fluid to be circulated between the pressure chambers, so that an expanding pressure chamber can absorb a quantity of damping fluid displaced from a shrinking pressure chamber.

[0019] Furthermore, each pressure chamber can have at least one fluid line for supplying the damping fluid when the volume increases and / or for discharging the damping fluid when the volume decreases. The fluid line can be opened or closed in one direction via a corresponding control and / or regulating device. The supply and discharge prevent maximum negative pressure and maximum positive pressure in the respective pressure chamber. The degree of damping can be further adjusted via optional valve devices or measures that change the line cross-section, such as orifices or throttles in the at least one fluid line. The damping fluid can be pumped into the expanding pressure chambers at positive pressure, for example, enabling rapid reset.The entire damping system (essentially pressure chambers and fluid lines) can be continuously under overpressure, which prevents water from entering the pressure chambers.

[0020] The at least one fluid line per pressure chamber can be an external hose or pipe or can be integrated into the connecting structure and also into the floating bodies, such that profiles of the connecting structure and the floating bodies are designed as hollow profiles that act as the fluid lines. The integral design of the fluid line increases the robustness of the connecting structure. The damping fluid can, for example, be outside ambient air. As an alternative to a fluid line designed as an inlet and outlet line, a pressure chamber can also have a single inlet line and a single outlet line. This reduces the control and regulation effort. The damping fluid displaced from the respective pressure chamber can be stored in a pressure accumulator in order to quickly feed damping fluid into an expanding damping chamber without obtaining it from the outside environment.Preferably, the pressure accumulator is integrated into the first damping device, since the first damping device, as the component of the connecting structure that connects the second and third damping devices to one another, is arranged in a central position. Furthermore, by integrating the pressure accumulator into the connecting structure, the fluid lines can be kept short, and a connecting structure can be easily assembled, disassembled, or replaced.

[0021] The damping of the relative movements between the floating bodies is preferably used to generate energy, in particular for regenerative energy generation. This is achieved, for example, by supplying the damping fluid displaced from the shrinking pressure chambers to a fluid machine for direct or indirect energy generation. Alternatively or additionally, the damping fluid sucked in or fed from the pressure chambers during expansion or volume increase can pass through a fluid machine. As a result, the damping fluid releases part of its energy and the expansion is dampened. An example of a fluid machine is a turbomachine or a turbomachine. The fluid machine can be operatively connected to a generator for power generation. After flowing through the fluid machine, the now depressurized damping fluid can be released into the outside environment.If central energy generation is used, it may be advantageous to provide the damping fluid in a central pressure accumulator outside the first damping devices, for example, on a floating body near the at least one fluid machine, to ensure a constant supply of the at least one fluid machine with the compressed damping fluid. However, decentralized energy generation can also be achieved, with a fluid machine and preferably also a corresponding generator being arranged in each pressure accumulator of the first damping device. Additionally or alternatively, the thermal energy inherent in the compressed damping fluid is dissipated from the pressure accumulator(s) for further use.These measures enable efficient energy conversion even at low accelerations and small amplitudes in absolute and relative movement, meaning that the floating bodies can also be used for living and working areas, as these require low accelerations and small amplitudes in absolute and relative movement. The use of compressed air systems to generate energy offers the particular advantage that a power take-off (PTO) is not required in every pressure chamber; instead, the compressed air can be collected centrally in the pressure accumulator and used there. The use of a central PTO system increases efficiency and saves space. In addition, a significant portion of the kinetic energy is converted into heat during the compression of the damping medium. This is a major advantage for offshore structures, as depending on the area of ​​application, a significant portion of the energy required consists of thermal energy.Thus, the direct availability of thermal energy can be utilized and saves the conversion step from electrical to thermal energy.

[0022] In order to reduce shock loads on the connecting structure, an underside of the first damping device can be concavely curved or radially tapered vertically downwards. Shock loads occur in particular when the connecting structure is located outside of the water and the damping devices are arranged above the water surface, so that during wave movement, water strikes the connecting structure from below. In particular, the underside of the first damping device oriented in the vertical direction can be designed as an outwardly tapered cone with a tip. Alternatively or additionally, the underside of the first damping device can be provided with breakwaters or, viewed from below, breakwaters can be arranged in front of the first damping device.The second damping device and the optional third damping device are preferably constructed in a truss-like manner to avoid impact loads and are also connected to the first damping device via thin struts.

[0023] A supporting structure according to the invention has at least two floating bodies that are connected to one another via the connecting structure according to one of the preceding patent claims. The connecting structure according to the invention, with the indirect coupling of the two mutually perpendicular horizontal spatial directions, means that bending and torsional moments do not have to be absorbed by the connecting structure, but are converted into tensile and compressive loads, which are axially transmitted or dampened by the telescopic rods and compressed air cushions. Due to the free rotation around the connecting arms or the connecting axes of the telescopic rods, no or only minimal shear loads need to be absorbed in the second and third damping devices themselves.This allows the dimensioning of a frame that accommodates the connecting arms for coupling to the first damping device to be optimized to create a small projection surface for acting wave forces. Large, mobile bodies in a maritime environment often have a short lifespan due to the enormous forces they are exposed to. However, if they are hydrodynamically quasi-transparent and interact little with the waves, the physical stress is reduced. The floating bodies are advantageously arranged in rows, each offset by half a body length. This allows the narrow body ends, which are usually subject to particularly strong deflections, to be connected to the comparatively less excited body centers of the adjacent row.

[0024] In order to enable assembly, disassembly and exchange as well as replacement of individual elements of the connecting structure, it is advantageous if at least one connecting structure is detachably attached to the floats.

[0025] To create a floating surface that is larger than a single deck area of ​​a floating body, a platform forming the surface can be supported by several floating bodies. The support can be provided by suitable supports such as cylindrical columns. The supports are also designed to dampen the vertical direction, for example in the form of telescopic supports with pressure chambers. The pressure chambers on the support side can then in turn be integrated into the optional energy generation system and be in fluid communication with the fluid machine intended for energy generation. The support bearings on the floating body side are equipped with a ball bearing, so that the platform can move relative to the column axis on a plane perpendicular to it. Alternatively, the platform can be divided into one segment per floating body. These segments are mounted at slightly different heights and overlap one another.In this case, the columns can be rigid.

[0026] A floating body according to the invention for a supporting structure has a dominant main dimension in a horizontal spatial direction and a thickening of the cross-section towards its center. In a preferred embodiment, the floating body is diamond-shaped. The connecting structures are then arranged in corner regions. The use of elongated floating body shapes makes it possible to couple floating body locations where different response behaviors in sea conditions are to be expected. While the floating body centers exhibit large amplitudes, especially during rolling movements, the floating body ends are more likely to be affected by yawing and pitching movements. High relative movements are therefore to be expected. Large movement amplitudes are advantageous for energy generation using compressed air. The floating position of the floating bodies can be stabilized through better energy extraction efficiency.In addition, the elongated floating body has more favorable seakeeping characteristics than equilateral floating bodies, which is particularly beneficial for towing, installation and maintenance.

[0027] Other advantageous embodiments are the subject of further subclaims.

[0028] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below using schematic representations. They show: Fig. 1 a plan view of a supporting structure according to the invention with a plurality of floating bodies and connecting structures according to the invention, Fig. 2 one of the connecting structures with two horizontal damping devices and one vertical damping device in the basic position and a relative rotation of a floating body about a connecting axis with the vertical damping device, Fig. 3 a relative rotation of the horizontal damping devices to the vertical damping device, Fig. 4 the vertical damping device with cut-out pressure chambers, Fig. 5 the connecting arm Fig. 5 with its free-cut pressure chamber, Fig. 6 a compression of the pressure chamber of the connecting arm in the horizontal direction, Fig. 7 a rotation of the connecting arm around its transverse axis, Fig. 8 a rotation of a floating body coupled to the connecting arm or a tilting about the longitudinal axis of the connecting arm, Fig. 9 the arrangement of fluid machines for energy generation on a floating body, Fig. 10 the positioning of a platform on several floating bodies in plan view, and Fig. 11 the positioning of the platform on several floats in a sectioned side view.

[0029] Fig. 1 shows a floating structure according to the invention 1 . The supporting structure 1 can be used, for example, in the offshore area to accommodate work surfaces, living modules, etc. It has a variety of floating bodies 2a , b , c , d which each have a connection structure 4 are flexibly connected to each other.

[0030] The connection structures 4 allow relative movements of the floats in the vertical and horizontal directions. The terms vertical and horizontal directions refer to the installation position and position of the connecting structures. 4 in calm seas. The vertical direction then extends perpendicular to the water surface and the horizontal direction extends along the water surface. In perspective Fig. 1 the vertical direction runs perpendicular to the sheet or drawing plane and the horizontal direction runs in the sheet or drawing plane.

[0031] The connection structures 4 cause a decoupling of rotational movements and horizontal movements as well as vertical movements of the individual floating bodies 2a , b , c , d to each other. In addition, the connecting structures 4 damping of relative translational movements between the floating bodies 2a , b , c , d . The decoupled rotational movements prevent the absorption of bending and torsional moments in the connecting structures 4 The damping of translational movements will be explained below. It is used primarily for energy generation, for example, to supply energy and heat to the floating living modules.

[0032] A single float2a , b , c , d is a body with a greater extension in the longitudinal direction than in the transverse direction. Preferably, the floating bodies have 2a , b , c d a diamond-shaped cover surface 6 , for example, with a maximum length of 100m and a maximum width of 40m. However, these dimensions are not limiting. The floats 2a , b , c , d are arranged in staggered rows. The connecting structures 4 are located at the opposite corner areas 8a , 8b (float ends) and side corner areas 10a , b (float centers). The floats 2a , b , c , d are located with their deck area 6 above the water surface. The connecting structures 4can be located completely below, completely above, or partially below and partially above the water surface.

[0033] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 each connection structure 4 a first damping device 12 , a second damping device 14 and a third damping device 16 . The first damping device 12 provides damping in the vertical direction. It connects the second and third damping devices 14 , 16 with each other and allows both relative vertical displacements of the second and third damping devices 14 , 16 to each other ( Fig. 2, indicated by the vertical double arrow), as well as relative rotations of the second and third damping device 14 , 16 to each other ( Fig. 3, indicated by the rotation arrow). In anticipation of the following explanation, Fig. 2 also a rotation arrow indicates the rotatability of a floating body 2a , b , c , d about a connecting axis with the first damping device 12 indicated.

[0034] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 through the four-legged connection structures 18 illustrated, the second and third damping devices 14 , 16 each with a float 2a , b , c , d They are connected in different horizontal planes 19 , 21 arranged at 90° to each other ( Fig. 3) and from this 90° basic position relative to each other around the vertical axis z the first damping device 12 rotatable ( Fig. 3). The vertical displacement of the second and third damping devices 14 , 16 relative to each other enables the damping of translational movements of the floating bodies 2a , b , c , d in the vertical direction. The second and third damping devices 14 , 16 are via the first damping device 12 connected to each other and enable the damping of translational movements of the floating bodies 2a , b , c , d relative to each other in the horizontal direction. In the following, the first damping device 12 referred to as vertical damping device. The first and second damping devices 14 , 16 act as horizontal damping devices and are referred to below as lower damping device due to their arrangement in different horizontal planes 14(first damping device) and as upper damping device 16 (second damping device).

[0035] The vertical damping device 12 has, as in Fig. 3 numbered, a cylindrical shape with a conical bottom 20 , which extends from a cylindrical ring 22 extends vertically downwards. Via struts 24 is the lower damping device 14 on this ring 22 The conical underside 20 can define a cavity that is protected from water penetration. Preferably, the underside 20 a conical tip, so that the underside has no surface section parallel to the waterline or the water surface, which prevents the introduction of impact loads into the vertical damping device 12 and thus into the connection structure 4 is significantly reduced.

[0036] As in Fig. 4, the vertical damping device 12 two pressure chambers arranged vertically one above the other 26a , b . The printing rooms 26a , b are aligned with each other and have the same volume. They each have a flexible cylindrical and bellows-like casing 28a , 28b , which is preferably made of a plastic or rubber material. They serve to absorb and release a damping fluid, preferably air from the outside environment. The pressure chambers 26a , 26b can therefore also be considered as damping cushions. They are connected via a fluid-tight separating disc 30 separated and independent of each other. This means that when the lower and upper damping devices are displaced relative to each other 14 , 16 In the vertical direction, both pressure chambers 26a , 26bcan be reduced in size or enlarged in size, or the pressure chamber can be 26a enlarged and the other pressure chamber 26b be reduced in size or vice versa.

[0037] The previously described volume or size variability of the pressure chambers 26a , 26b in the vertical direction is carried out via vertically aligned telescopic rods 32a , 32b achieved, which is different from the cutting disc 30 opposite to each other to a ring-side and lower base plate 34 or an upper cover disc 36 extend

[0038] For supplying and discharging the damping fluid into and out of the pressure chambers 26a , 26b with a vertical relative displacement of the floating bodies 2a , b , c , d the printing rooms are 26a , 26bvia one supply line and one discharge line, each in fluid communication with an inlet system and a discharge system, respectively. An exemplary inlet system includes a suction-side fluid machine 78a for damping and energy recovery, which generates an air flow 77a from the outside environment (see Fig. 9). An exemplary discharge system includes a displacement-side fluid machine 78a for damping and energy recovery, which generates an air flow 77b to the outside environment (see Fig. 12). In the Fig. 4 are the supply and discharge lines as a fluid line system 38 indicated.

[0039] A degree of damping is preferably determined by the pressure preload of the damping fluid in the pressure chambers 26a , bIn addition, a pressure relief valve (not shown) can be provided on the discharge side, which opens when a maximum pressure is exceeded in the decreasing pressure chamber 26a , b opens automatically.

[0040] The lower damping device 14 and the upper damping device 16 will now be discussed with reference to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 to Fig. 8 explained.

[0041] The lower and upper damping device 14 , 16 are designed in the same way. They only differ in the basic setting, which is offset by 90° in different horizontal planes 19 , 21 ( Fig. 2) and in the type of connection to the vertical damping device 12 .

[0042] The lower damping device 14 is on the lower ring 22 the vertical damping device 12over the struts 24 rotatably mounted ( Fig. 3). The upper damping device 16 is mounted on a rotatable ring 42 in the area of ​​the cutting disc 30 on the vertical damping device 12 mounted and thus relative to the lower damping device 14 vertically movable and horizontally rotatable.

[0043] Since the lower and upper damping devices 14 , 16 are identical except for the differences mentioned above, the following description of the lower damping device 14 also valid for the upper damping device 16 .

[0044] With reference to Fig. 2 has the lower damping device 14 a truss-like support frame with two parallel and horizontal longitudinal beams 42a , 42b , each end of which has a bearing point 44a , 44bfor a cylindrical cross member 46a , 46b form. The bearing points 44a , 44b are preferably water-lubricated shaft bearings and allow rotation of the cross members 46a , 46b around a horizontal axis y . The support frame forms with the cross beams 46a , 46b and the rotating longitudinal beams 42a , 42b a frame that supports the vertical damping device 12 and due to its truss-like design is almost insensitive to impact loads.

[0045] The cross members 46a , b are in the bearing points aligned to each other at the ends 44a , 44b stored. Centered on the cross members 46a , b A connecting arm extends 48a , b for connecting the lower damping device 16 with one of the floats2a , b , c , d . The lower damping device 16 thus has two oppositely arranged connecting arms 48a , b for connection to one float each 2a , b , c , d .

[0046] As in Fig. 5 on the connecting arm 48a As illustrated, each connecting arm 48a , b a main extension along its longitudinal axis x with a longitudinally pronounced pressure chamber 50 . The printing room 50 has a flexible cylindrical and bellows-like jacket 52 , which is preferably made of a plastic or rubber material. The pressure chamber 50 serves to absorb and release a damping fluid, preferably air from the outside environment. The pressure chamber 50 can therefore also be considered as a damping cushion.

[0047] The previously described volume or size variability of the pressure chamber 50 in the horizontal direction is carried out via a longitudinally extending connecting arm 48 extending telescopic rod 56 which is located between a frame-side end plate 58 and one of the respective floats 2a , b , c , d facing end plate 60 extends. In Fig. 6 is an example compression of the telescopic rod 56 and thus a reduction in the volume of the pressure chamber 50 shown.

[0048] For supplying and discharging the damping fluid into and out of the pressure chamber 50 with a horizontal relative displacement of the floating bodies 2a , b , c , d This is in fluid connection with an inlet system and a discharge system via an inlet line and an outlet line. Fig. 5 are the supply and discharge lines as a fluid line system 62 indicated.

[0049] A degree of damping is preferably determined by the pressure preload of the damping fluid in the pressure chamber 50 In addition, a pressure relief valve (not shown) can be provided on the discharge side, which, when a maximum pressure in the decreasing pressure chamber is exceeded, 50 opens automatically.

[0050] The end connection of the connecting arms 48a , b on the respective cross member 46a , b and the connection structure 18 of the respective float 2a , b , c , d is carried out via a joint connection, preferably via a ball joint 66a , 66b ( Fig. 5). For this purpose, each end plate 58 , 60 an axial connecting rod 68, where a ball 70a , b of the respective ball joint 66a , b The cross member 46a and the connection structure 18 point the ball 70a , b receiving acetabulum 72a , b The acetabulum 72a can also be directly inserted into a side wall 67 of the float 2a , b , c , d be used. The ball joints 66a , b enable the same function as the shaft bearings (bearing points 44a , b ) the cross member 46a , b around a horizontal axis on the support frame ( Fig. 7). On the other hand, the ball joints allow 66a , b a relative rotation of a floating body 2a , b , c , d around the longitudinal axis x of the connecting arm 48a( Fig. 8). The longitudinal axis x a connecting arm 48a , b simultaneously forms the connecting axis for each individual floating body 2a , b , c , d with the vertical damping device 12 .

[0051] In order to facilitate assembly, disassembly and replacement of individual elements of the connecting structure 4 in operation, it is advantageous if the connection structure 4 , especially their connecting arms 48a , b detachable from the connection structures 18 the float 2a , b , c , d In the embodiment shown here, the connecting structures 4 or individual connecting arms 48a , b via the ball joints 66a , 66bIn particular, the pressure pads or jackets ( 28a , b , 52 ) can be assembled and disassembled during operation.

[0052] In summary, the connection structure according to the invention 4 The indirect coupling of two perpendicular horizontal spatial directions means that bending and torsional moments do not have to be absorbed by the connecting structure, but are converted into tensile and compressive loads, which are transmitted by the telescopic rods ( 32a , 32b , 56 ) and compressed air cushions ( 26a , 26b , 50 ) are transmitted or damped axially. Due to the free rotation around the connecting axes of the telescopic rods ( 32a , 32b , 56 ) or the longitudinal axes x the connecting arms 48a , b must also be in the respective support frame of the lower and upper damping device14 , 16 no or only minimal shear loads are absorbed. This allows the dimensions of the support frame to be optimized to create a small projection area for acting wave forces. The floats 2a , b , c , d are connected by the flexible connecting structures in such a way that any rotational movement of the floating modules is decoupled from their neighbors and converted into a relative translational movement, which is then used to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy and heat.

[0053] In Fig. 9 now explains the energy generation mentioned at the beginning. The energy generation occurs in particular through the use of the energy from the decreasing pressure chambers 26a , b , 50 displaced damping fluid or due to expansion of the pressure chambers 26a ,b , 50 sucked-in damping fluid.

[0054] Preferably, the sucked in or displaced damping fluid is used as a drive medium for one fluid machine 74a , b used which is directly or indirectly generated by the use of a generator 76a , b used to generate electrical energy. The fluid machines 74a , b Examples include turbomachines and turbo engines.

[0055] The intake-side or inlet-side fluid machine 74a is integrated into the supply lines of the fluid line systems 38 , 62 integrated. Preferably, the damping fluid flows as an air stream 77a from the outside environment. The displacement-side or discharge-side fluid machine 74b is integrated into the discharge lines of the fluid line systems 38 , 62 integrated. The fluid machine 74bThe flowing and thus relaxed damping fluid is called air flow 77b released into the outside environment.

[0056] To compensate for pressure fluctuations in the respective inflow of the fluid machines 74a , 74b The displaced damping fluid can be stored in one of the fluid machines 74a , b upstream pressure accumulator 78a , b be temporarily stored so that the fluid machines 74a , b operated with a constant fluid flow.

[0057] The fluid machines 74a , b , the generators 76a , b and the pressure accumulators 78a , b , can be converted into a portable system 80 be summarized. The system 80 can be placed on one of the floats 2a , b , c , d or next to the floats 2a , 2b , 2c , 2dbe positioned. The system 80 can be used with one of the floats 2a , b , c , d be detachably connected or be a free-floating body.

[0058] The additionally when reducing and enlarging the printing spaces 26a , b , 50a , b The resulting heat is transferred, for example, via heat exchangers (not shown) in the connecting structures 4 used directly to generate heat.

[0059] In the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 shows an initial example in which a platform 82 on several floats 2a , b , c , d The platform 82 extends over several floating bodies 2a , b , c , d and is supported on these by at least one support 84a , b , c , dThe supports have an inherent damping function, so that the movements of the floating bodies 2a , b , c , d be further dampened. In addition, the supports 84a , b , c , d preferably via ball joints (not shown) on the floats 2a , b , c , d stored so that the platform 82 can move relative to the column axis on a plane perpendicular to it.

[0060] It is mentioned that even if the inlets and outlets of the fluid piping systems 38 , 62 are shown in the figures as external lines, these are preferably integrated into the connection structure 4 , the connection structures 18 and also in the floats 2a , b , c , dThe integration is achieved by providing corresponding structural hollow profiles of the individual elements 2a , b , c , d , 4 , 18 of the supporting structure 1 . The representation of the fluid lines 38a , b , 62a , b as external lines is for illustrative purposes only.

[0061] Likewise, the cavity of each vertical damping device can be integrated into the fluid system and act as a pressure accumulator.

[0062] It is further mentioned that instead of the preferred compressed air damping described here, alternative damping, for example air-oil, oil damping or oil-spring damping, can also be used.

[0063] Disclosed is a connecting structure for connecting floating bodies, wherein by indirect coupling of two mutually perpendicular horizontal spatial directions, bending and torsional moments are not absorbed by the connecting structure but are converted into tensile and compressive loads which are axially transmitted or damped by damping devices, with a first damping device for damping relative movements in the vertical direction and with a second damping device for damping relative movements in the horizontal direction, which is mounted on the first damping device so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis and which has two connecting arms for coupling to one of the floating bodies each, wherein the connecting arms can each be fastened to the first damping device and to the floating bodies so as to be movable in the vertical direction, a supporting structure and a floating body. List of reference symbols 1 supporting structure 2a, b, c, d Floats 4 Connection structure 6 deck area 8a, b front corner area / body end 10a, b lateral corner area / center of the body 12 first (vertical) damping device 14 second (horizontal or lower) damping device 16 third (horizontal or upper) damping device 18 Connection structure 19 Horizontal plane 20 Bottom 21 Horizontal plane 22 rings 24 strut 26a, b pressure chamber 28a, b coat 30 cutting disc 32a, b telescopic rod 34 floor disc 36 cover disc 38 Fluid line system (supply and discharge line(s)) 42a, b longitudinal member 44a, b bearing point 46a, b cross member 48a, b connecting arm 50 printing room 52 coat 54 cutting disc 56, a, b telescopic rod 58 end plate 60 end plate 62 Fluid line system (supply and discharge line(s)) 66a, b Joint connection / ball joint 76 side wall 68 connecting rod 70a, b ball 72a, b acetabulum 74a, b Fluid machine 76a, b Generator 77a, b Airflow 78a, b pressure accumulator 80 system 82 Platform 84a, b, c, d support x Longitudinal axis y horizontal axis z vertical axis

Claims

[1] Connecting structure (4) for connecting floating bodies (2a, b, c, d), wherein the connecting structure (4) allows damping of translational or rotational relative movements of the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) to one another, • with a first damping device (12) for damping relative movements in the vertical direction and • with a second damping device (14) for damping relative movements in the horizontal direction, which is mounted on the first damping device (12) so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis (z) and which has two connecting arms (48a, 48b) for coupling to one of the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d), wherein • the connecting arms (48a, 48b) can each be fastened to the first damping device (12) and to the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) so as to be movable in the vertical direction. [2] Connecting structure according to claim 1, wherein the connecting arms (48a, 48b) each contain at least one ball joint (66a, b). [3] Connecting structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a third damping device (16) is arranged on the first damping device (12) with at least one connecting arm (48a, 48b) for damping relative movements in the horizontal direction between the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) and a further floating body (2a, b, c, d). [4] Connecting structure according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein at least one of the damping devices (12, 14, 16) has at least one pressure chamber (26a, b, 50) charged with a damping fluid. [5] Connecting structure according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the damping devices (12, 14, 16) has at least two pressure chambers (26a, b, 50), the volume of which can be individually changed during a relative movement of the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) to one another. [6] Connecting structure according to claim 4 or 5, wherein at least one section of a damping device (12, 14, 16) is variable in length to form a volume-variable pressure chamber (26a, b, 50). [7] Connecting structure according to claim 4, 5 or 6, wherein the pressure chambers (26a, b, 50) are sealed fluid-tight from one another. [8] Connecting structure according to claim 4, 5 or 6, wherein the pressure chambers (26a, b, 50) are in fluid communication with each other. [9] Connecting structure according to one of claims 4 to 8, wherein each pressure chamber (26a, b, 50) has at least one fluid line for supplying the damping fluid in the event of an increase in volume and / or for discharging the damping fluid in the event of a reduction in volume. [10] Connecting structure according to one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the relative movements of the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) to each other serve to generate energy. [11] Connecting structure according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a bottom side (20) of the first damping device (12) is concavely curved or conically tapered towards the outside. [12] Supporting structure with at least two floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) which are connected to one another via a connecting structure (4) according to one of the preceding claims. [13] Supporting structure according to claim 12, wherein the at least one connecting structure (4) is detachably attached to the floating bodies (2a, b, c, d). [14] Supporting structure according to claim 12 or 13, wherein two or more floating bodies (2a, b, c, d) support a common platform (82). [15] Floating body (2a, b, c, d) for a supporting structure according to one of claims 12, 13 or 14, wherein the floating body (2a, b, c, d) has a deck surface (6) with a dominant main dimension in the horizontal spatial direction and a thickening of the cross-section towards the center of the body.

Images