Control system of oscillation quantity and draft amount of offshore wind power generation facility

Abstract

To provide a control system of the oscillation quantity and draft amount of an offshore wind power generation facility, capable of suitably controlling the oscillation quantity and the draft amount in the offshore wind power generation facility in a floating type.SOLUTION: A floating body structure 200 includes a holding part 230 to hold a brace 130, at least three floats 210 accumulating air inside, a float connection part 220 holding at least the three floats 210 and connecting them with the holding part 230, an air-amount adjusting device 260 to adjust the air amount inside each of at least the three floats 210, an oscillation detection device 240 to detect the oscillation quantity of the wind power generation facility 10, and a draft amount detection device 250 to detect the draft amount M of the floating body structure 200 from the water surface. A control unit 20 controls the oscillation quantity and the draft amount M by controlling the air-amount adjusting device 260 based on the detection result by the oscillation detection device 240 and the draft amount detection device 250.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control system for the sway amount and draft of an offshore wind power facility.

Background Art

[0002] Among the methods of offshore wind power facilities for generating wind power offshore, there is a floating type that can be installed even in deep waters. Examples of floating offshore wind power facilities include Japanese Patent No. 7347764 (Patent Document 1).

[0003] In this floating offshore wind power facility, a plurality of floating modules provided with air chambers inside are connected to form the facility, and a windmill or the like is installed on the floating module. A part of this floating module is installed above the sea surface, and by controlling the amount of air in the air chamber, the buoyancy of the floating module is adjusted. By connecting a plurality of floating modules, the effect of reducing the sway due to waves and the inclination due to strong winds or the like and increasing the stability is achieved.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the above-mentioned offshore wind power generation equipment, by connecting a plurality of floating body modules, the sway caused by waves and the inclination caused by strong winds, etc. are reduced. However, when the floating body module is a single unit, such an effect cannot be expected. In this case, even if the amount of air in the air chamber is controlled, the inclination caused by strong winds, etc. cannot be controlled. Further, since it is premised that a part of the floating body module is above the sea surface, for example, submerging the floating body module and controlling the draft to reduce the influence of wind power and wave power has not been considered. To suppress the sway, a floating body having a large area is required, but it is necessary to secure a large manufacturing area and the cost of the floating body also becomes high.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above problems, and one of its objects is to provide a control system for the amount of sway and draft of an offshore wind power generation facility that can suitably control the amount of sway and draft in a floating offshore wind power generation facility.

[0007] By controlling the sway, it becomes possible to improve the power generation amount. Further, it becomes possible to configure the floating body to be small, reduce the area required for manufacturing, and significantly reduce the cost of the floating body. Furthermore, by controlling the amount of air in the air chamber, it is possible to realize sway control with excellent responsiveness compared to the case of controlling the amount of water or seawater. Also, by appropriately controlling the draft, the resistance component against the sway increases, and it becomes possible to further suppress the sway.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The control system for the sway amount and draft of an offshore wind power generation facility in one aspect includes a floating structure portion that supports the wind power generation device portion and floats on the ocean, and a control portion that controls the sway amount and draft of the floating structure portion. The wind power generation device portion is provided with a blade that rotates by receiving wind, a generator that converts the rotational energy of the blade into electrical energy, and a support column that supports the blade and the generator. The floating structure portion includes a holding portion that holds the support column, at least three floats that accumulate air inside, a float connection portion that holds the at least three floats and connects them to the holding portion, an air amount adjustment device that adjusts the air amount inside each of the at least three floats, a first detection device that detects the sway amount of the offshore wind power generation facility, and a second detection device that detects the draft of the floating structure portion from the water surface. The control portion controls the air amount adjustment device based on the detection results of the first detection device and the second detection device to control the sway amount and draft.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the control system for the sway amount and draft of the offshore wind power generation facility in the above one aspect, in a floating type offshore wind power generation facility, the sway amount and draft can be suitably controlled.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 1C

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 5C

Figure 5D

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 6C

Figure 6D

Figure 6E

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10A

Figure 10B

Figure 11A

Figure 11B

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0012] [Schematic Configuration Example of Offshore Wind Power Generation Facility 10] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1C, a schematic configuration example of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 will be described. FIG. 1A is a schematic view (side view) of the offshore wind power generation facility 10.

[0013] The offshore wind power generation facility 10 includes a wind power generation device unit (also referred to as an “offshore wind power generation device”) 100 that generates electricity by wind power, and a floating structure unit 200 that supports the wind power generation device unit 100 and floats it on the sea.

[0014] The wind power generation device unit 100 is provided with a blade 110 that rotates by receiving wind, a generator (nacelle) 120 that converts the rotational energy of the blade 110 into electrical energy, a support column 130 that supports the blade 110 and the generator 120, and a wind speed sensor 140 that measures the wind speed received by the offshore wind power generation facility 10.

[0015] The wind speed sensor 140 is attached to the generator 120 (wind power generation device unit 100) and measures the wind speed near the center position of the blade 110. The alternating current power generated by the generator 120 is transmitted to onshore power facilities through a power cable. The offshore wind power generation facility 10 is moored to the seabed by a mooring line (such as a chain or a rope).

[0016] The floating structure unit 200 includes a holding unit 230 that holds the support column 130, four floats 210 that accumulate air inside, and a plate-shaped or rod-shaped float connection unit 220 that holds the four floats 210 and connects them to the holding unit 230. The float connection unit 220 and the four floats 210 operate in a submerged state in a specified operation mode (described later).

[0017] Furthermore, the floating structure portion 200 includes an air volume adjustment device 260 that adjusts the air volume inside each of the four floats 210, a swing detection device 240 (also referred to as the "first detection device") that detects the inclination and swing amount of the wind power generation device portion 100 (offshore wind power facility 10) or the floating structure portion 200, and a draft detection device 250 (also referred to as the "second detection device") that detects the draft M of the floating structure portion 200 from the sea surface (waterline) L.

[0018] The swing detection device 240 has at least one sensor (for example, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, etc.) that detects the angle, angular velocity, or acceleration of the wind power generation device portion 100 or the floating structure portion 200. The swing detection device 240 is installed on either the wind power generation device portion 100 or the floating structure portion 200.

[0019] The draft detection device 250 has a sensor (for example, a distance sensor, a pressure sensor, etc.) that detects distance, pressure, or pressure difference. The draft detection device 250 is installed across either or both of the wind power generation device portion 100 and the floating structure portion 200.

[0020] Figure 1B is a schematic view (front view) of the offshore wind power facility 10. When the wind blows in the wind direction shown in Figure 1A, as shown in Figure 1B, the blade 110 composed of three blades rotates and electricity is generated.

[0021] A hub (detailed configuration not shown) is provided in front of the generator (nacelle) 120, and the blade 110 composed of three blades is attached to the hub. The blade 110 rotates around the axial direction of the rotor shaft by the rotation of the rotor shaft (detailed configuration not shown) connected to the hub. Also, the generator 120 is rotatable around the longitudinal axis of the support column 130. The generator 120 rotates around the longitudinal axis of the support column 130 so as to automatically follow the direction of the wind in order to improve the power generation efficiency (the yaw angle around the Z axis in the figure changes).

[0022] Here, the draft M indicates the distance from the waterline (sea surface) L to the bottom surface of the floating body structure 200 (here, the bottom surface of the float 210).

[0023] Note that the draft M is defined as the distance from the waterline (sea surface) L to the bottom surface of the floating body structure 200 (here, the bottom surface of the float 210), but it may also be defined as the distance from the waterline (sea surface) L to any predetermined position of the floating body structure 200. In this embodiment, the waterline (sea surface) L is defined as any one of the position obtained by averaging the fluctuations due to waves, the position connecting the highest points of the fluctuations, and the position connecting the lowest points of the fluctuations, but other definitions may also be used.

[0024] The control unit 20 (described later) is disposed in either the floating body structure 200 or the wind power generation device unit 100, and controls the air volume adjustment device 260 based on the detection results of the swing detection device 240 and the draft detection device 250, thereby controlling the inclination, swing amount, and draft M of the offshore wind power facility 10. More specifically, the control unit 20 controls the air volume adjustment device 260 based on the inclination and swing amount detected by the swing detection device 240 and the draft M detected by the draft detection device 250 so that the inclination, swing amount, and draft M of the offshore wind power facility 10 follow the target values, and adjusts the air volume inside each of the four floats 210 (details will be described later).

[0025] FIG. 1C is a schematic view (top view) of the offshore wind power facility 10. As shown in FIG. 1C, the floating body structure 200 includes four floats 210. The four floats 210 are also referred to as float 210A, float 210B, float 210C, and float 210D, respectively. Note that at least three floats 210 of the floating body structure 200 may be installed.

[0026] In this embodiment, the vertically upward direction is defined as the Z axis (see FIG. 1B). Also, when the sea surface is not swaying, the X axis and the Y axis are set on the sea surface. Here, for simplicity, it is assumed that the offshore wind power facility 10 does not rotate around the Z axis and does not move in the X-axis and Y-axis directions, and the description will be made based on this assumption.

[0027] In FIG. 1C, assume that the upwind direction is the X-axis direction and the direction along the blade surface is the Y-axis. As shown in FIG. 1C, the float 210A is installed at a positive position along the X-axis, the float 210C is installed at a negative position along the X-axis, the float 210D is installed at a positive position along the Y-axis, and the float 210B is installed at a negative position along the Y-axis.

[0028] Here, the rotation angle around the Z-axis is described as the yaw angle (see FIG. 1B), the rotation angle around the Y-axis is described as the pitch angle, and the rotation angle around the X-axis is described as the roll angle. When the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is not swaying, the pitch angle = 0 degrees and the roll angle = 0 degrees.

[0029] Hereinafter, a method for controlling the water intake amount M by the control of the air amount adjusting device 260 will be described. When it is desired to reduce the water intake amount M of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 (to raise it in the Z-axis direction), the air amount adjusting device 260 is controlled so as to equally increase the air amount of each of the floats 210A to 210D. As a result, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 has an increased buoyancy and rises in the Z-axis direction (the water intake amount M decreases).

[0030] On the other hand, when it is desired to increase the water intake amount M of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 (to lower it in the Z-axis direction), the air amount adjusting device 260 is controlled so as to equally decrease the air amount of each of the floats 210A to 210D. As a result, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 has a decreased buoyancy and descends in the Z-axis direction (the water intake amount M increases).

[0031] The pressure sensor(s) is / are installed at one or more arbitrary positions in the Z-axis direction. The water intake amount M is calculated, for example, based on the water pressure (the water pressure or the water pressure difference at the installation position of the pressure sensor) measured by the pressure sensor provided in the water intake amount detection device 250. First, the distance from the installation position of the pressure sensor to the sea surface L is calculated from the relationship between the measured value of the pressure sensor, the water depth, and the water pressure. By adding this distance to the distance from the installation position of the pressure sensor to the bottom surface of the floating structure 200 (the bottom surface of the float 210), the water intake amount M can be calculated. Note that the water intake amount M is not limited to indicating the distance from the sea surface L to the bottom surface of the floating structure 200, and may indicate the distance from the sea surface L to an arbitrary position of the floating structure 200 determined in advance.

[0032] Also, the water intake amount M may be calculated, for example, based on the distance measured by a distance sensor provided in the water intake amount detection device 250. For example, in the example of FIG. 5B described later, the distance to the sea surface L is measured by the distance sensor provided in the water intake amount detection device 250. By adding this distance to the distance from the installation position of the distance sensor to the bottom surface of the floating structure 200, the water intake amount M can be calculated. When the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is tilted, the calculated water intake amount M may be corrected according to the tilt and the installation position of the water intake amount detection device 250, and the distance from the center position of the bottom surface of the floating structure 200 to the sea surface L may be calculated.

[0033] Also, the distance sensor for detecting the water intake amount M may be attached to an arbitrary position of the support column 130 and configured to measure the distance to the sea surface L.

[0034] Returning to the description of FIG. 3. Next, a method for controlling the tilt of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 by controlling the air volume adjustment device 260 will be described. Hereinafter, the "tilt" of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 refers to the combined value of the pitch angle around the Y-axis (tilt in the X-axis direction) and the roll angle around the X-axis (tilt in the Y-axis direction) described above.

[0035] For example, when the pitch angle = 0 degrees and the roll angle = 0 degrees, the inclination is 0 degrees. When the pitch angle = 10 degrees and the roll angle = 0 degrees, it is inclined 10 degrees in the X-axis direction. In this case, the float 210A sinks a little and the float 210C floats a little. To control the inclination of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 to 0 degrees, the air volume adjustment device 260 is controlled so as to increase the air volume of the float 210A to increase the buoyancy and decrease the air volume of the float 210C to decrease the buoyancy.

[0036] When the pitch angle = 0 degrees and the roll angle = 10 degrees, it indicates that it is inclined -10 degrees in the Y-axis direction. In this case, the float 210B sinks a little and the float 210D floats a little. To control the inclination of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 to 0 degrees, the air volume adjustment device 260 is controlled so as to increase the air volume of the float 210B to increase the buoyancy and decrease the air volume of the float 210D to decrease the buoyancy.

[0037] For example, assume that the swing detection device 240 is provided with a gyro sensor A for detecting the angular velocity of the pitch angle and a gyro sensor B for detecting the angular velocity of the roll angle. In this case, the pitch angle can be obtained by integrating the detection value of the gyro sensor A, and the roll angle can be obtained by integrating the detection value of the gyro sensor B.

[0038] That is, based on the detection values of the gyro sensors A and B, the pitch angle and the roll angle are calculated, and based on these, the inclination of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is obtained. Then, by the above method, it becomes possible to control the inclination of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 to 0. Although two gyro sensors are provided to detect the pitch angle and the roll angle respectively, a configuration in which one gyro sensor detects the pitch angle and the roll angle respectively may also be used.

[0039] When controlling the tilt and the water intake M simultaneously, the following applies. For example, when the pitch angle = 10 degrees, the roll angle = 0 degrees, and it is desired to decrease (or increase) the water intake M, in order to decrease the water intake M, the air volume of each of the floats 210A to D is equally increased. At this time, the increase amount of the air volume of the float 210A is made larger than that of the other floats, and the increase amount of the air volume of the float 210A is made smaller than that of the other floats.

[0040] [Hardware Configuration Example of Control System 1] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the control system 1. The control system 1 in the present embodiment includes the floating structure portion 200 illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C and a control unit 20 that controls the air volume adjustment device 260 of the floating structure portion 200. The control system 1 controls the water intake amount, tilt, and swing amount of the wind power generation device portion 100 (offshore wind power generation facility 10).

[0041] Note that it may be configured as the control system 1 including the offshore wind power generation facility 10 and the control unit 20, or the floating structure portion 200 itself may include the control unit 20 and be configured as the control system 1, or the offshore wind power generation facility 10 itself may include the control unit 20 and be configured as the control system 1, and it may be configured in any way.

[0042] As described above, the floating structure portion 200 includes a swing detection device 240, a water intake detection device 250, an air volume adjustment device 260, and four floats 210. Further, each float 210 includes a capacity sensor 270 and a pressure sensor 280.

[0043] The control unit 20 is configured by a microcomputer including a processor 21 and a memory 22. The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 22 is configured by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory stores a program that operates by the CPU.

[0044] The control unit 20 may be composed of a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, and a non-volatile memory, or may be composed of an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or may be composed of a dedicated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Further, the control unit 20 may be composed of a combination of at least two of these.

[0045] The arithmetic unit 23 of the control unit 20 acquires various signals from the swing detection device 240, the water intake detection device 250, the capacitance sensor 270, the pressure sensor 280, etc., and generates a command value for the air volume adjustment device 260 based on the acquired various signals. The air volume adjustment device 260 controls the air volume in each float 210 based on this command value. Thereby, the inclination, the swing amount, and the water intake M of the offshore wind power generation facility 10 are controlled. The arithmetic unit 23 is an arithmetic process executed by the processor 21 and is a controller (compensator) for feedback control. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. 9.

[0046] [Internal Structure of Float 210] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the internal structure (A-A cross section) of the float 210. Each of the four floats 210 is provided with an air chamber 300 inside. The bottom surface of the float 210 in the present embodiment is open, and seawater 310 flows into the float 210.

[0047] If the amount of seawater 310 flowing into the float 210 increases, the capacity (volume) of the air chamber 300 becomes smaller, and when the seawater 310 is discharged from the inside of the float 210, the capacity (volume) of the air chamber 300 becomes larger. When the capacity of the air chamber 300 becomes smaller, the buoyancy of the float 210 becomes smaller, and when the capacity of the air chamber 300 becomes larger, the buoyancy of the float 210 becomes larger.

[0048] The floating body structure part 200 further includes four discharge pipes 416 each connected to one of the four floats 210 (200A to D), and four suction pipes 413 connected to the air volume adjustment device 260. Each of the four suction pipes 413 is connected to each air chamber 300 of the four floats 210.

[0049] It is possible to allow air to flow from the air volume adjustment device 260 into each air chamber 300 through each suction pipe 413. In this case, seawater 310 is discharged from the float 210, and the volume of the air chamber 300 increases. When the air in the air chamber 300 is discharged from the discharge pipe 416, seawater 310 flows into the float 210, and the volume of the air chamber 300 decreases.

[0050] For example, when it is desired to increase the buoyancy of the float 210A, air is allowed to flow into the float 210A from the air volume adjustment device 260 through each suction pipe 413 connected to the float 210A. When it is desired to decrease the buoyancy of the float 210C, the air in the air chamber 300 is discharged from the discharge pipe 416 connected to the float 210C.

[0051] The air chamber 300 is provided with a pressure sensor 280 for measuring the pressure of the air in the air chamber 300 and a volume sensor 270 for measuring the volume (volume) of the air in the air chamber 300. The pressure sensor 280 detects the pressure inside the air chamber 300, and the volume sensor 270 detects the air volume inside the air chamber 300. It becomes possible to grasp the state of the air chamber 300 in detail from the detected pressure and volume of the air chamber 300. The detection results of the volume sensor 270 and the pressure sensor 280 are transmitted to the control unit 20, and the air volume adjustment device 260, etc. are controlled by the control unit 20. The volume sensor 270 is, for example, a distance sensor that measures the distance to the sea surface of the seawater 310, and calculates the volume by multiplying the measured distance by the cross-sectional area of the air chamber 300.

[0052] The air volume adjustment device 260 includes an air tank 330 that accumulates air to be sent to each of the four floats 210 through an intake pipe 413, an intake valve 411 and a discharge valve 414 located between the air tank 330 and the air chamber 300, and a compressor 340 that is connected to the air tank 330 and is a delivery device that sends atmospheric air to the air tank 330. As the delivery device, a compressor 340 or a pump is used.

[0053] The air tank 330 accumulates the air compressed by the compressor 340. When the intake valve provided in the intake pipe 413 is opened, the compressed air in the air tank 330 flows through the intake pipe 413 into the air chamber 300.

[0054] In the present embodiment, the control unit 20 controls the driving of the compressor 340 and the opening and closing of the intake valve and the discharge valve to control the inflow of air into the air chamber 300 or the discharge of air from the air chamber 300. Specifically, this will be described later with reference to FIG. 6A and the like.

[0055] [Configuration example of the float connection part 220] FIGS. 11A and 11B are diagrams showing a configuration example of the float connection part 220. In the present embodiment, a plate-shaped float connection part 220 that holds the four floats 210 and is connected to the holding part 230 as shown in FIG. 3 is exemplified.

[0056] However, the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG. 11A, the float connection part 220 may be composed of a plurality of members including a rod-shaped member for connecting the holding part 230 and each float 210. Specifically, the float connection part 220 may be composed of a member that supports the holding part 230 and four rod-shaped members that connect the member to each of the four floats 210. By configuring in this way, the material cost of the float connection part 220 can be reduced compared to that shown in FIG. 3. In addition, by reducing the area of the float connection part 220, it is possible to reduce the fluid resistance due to seawater during swing control, and it becomes possible to perform highly accurate swing control with even better following characteristics.

[0057] Also, as shown in FIG. 11B, the float connection portion 220 is composed of a plate-like member as in the case shown in FIG. 3, but four holes 255 may be provided at positions avoiding the positions holding the respective floats 210. By configuring in this way, the material cost of the float connection portion 220 can be reduced compared to that shown in FIG. 3, and the strength of the float connection portion 220 is increased compared to that shown in FIG. 11A. Further, by reducing the area of the float connection portion 220, it becomes possible to reduce the fluid resistance due to seawater during swing control, and highly accurate swing control with more excellent follow-up characteristics becomes possible.

[0058] [Arrangement example of float 210] FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining an arrangement example of the float 210. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1C, four floats 210 are arranged.

[0059] However, it is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. 4A, three floats 210 (floats 210E to G) may be arranged. For example, in this case, by allowing air to flow into the float 210G and discharging air from the floats 210E and F, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 can be tilted in the X-axis direction (changing the pitch angle). By allowing air to flow into the float 210F and discharging air from the float 210E, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 can be tilted in the Y-axis direction (changing the roll angle).

[0060] Also, as shown in FIG. 4B, six floats 210 (floats 210H to M) may be arranged. For example, in this case, by allowing air to flow into the floats 210J, K, and L and discharging air from the floats 210H and I, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 can be tilted in the X-axis direction (changing the pitch angle). By allowing air to flow into the floats 210J and I and discharging air from the floats 210L and H, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 can be tilted in the Y-axis direction (changing the roll angle). As long as the number of the floats 210 is three or more, any number can be arranged.

[0061] [Multiple operating modes] The control unit 20 can set any one of a plurality of operating modes that make the operations of the wind power generation device unit 100 and the floating structure unit 200 different. The plurality of operating modes include at least a normal power generation mode, a stop mode, a strong wind mode, a storm mode, and a maintenance mode.

[0062] FIG. 5A is a diagram for explaining the water intake amount M in the normal power generation mode. The normal power generation mode is an operation mode for performing power generation during normal times. Normal times refer to a state in which other operation modes such as a stop mode, a strong wind mode, a storm mode, and a maintenance mode are not set and normal power generation is performed.

[0063] In the present embodiment, for example, the wind speed in each mode is set such that the normal power generation mode is 0 to 12 m / s, the strong wind mode is 12 m / s to 25 m / s, and the storm mode is 25 m / s or more. Note that the wind speed in each operation mode described above is a provisional set value, and it is possible to set an arbitrary value other than the above values, and there is no problem even if the number of set operation modes is changed.

[0064] The control unit 20 varies the target value (the value to be followed by control) of the water intake amount M according to the set operation mode. The target value of the water intake amount M during the normal power generation mode is the target value A1. Thereby, during the normal power generation mode, the water intake amount M is controlled to become the target value A1.

[0065] FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining the water intake amount M in the strong wind mode and the storm mode. The strong wind mode is an operation mode that is executed when the speed of the wind received by the wind power generation device unit 100 is equal to or higher than a first speed (a speed at which it can be determined that there is strong wind). The storm mode is an operation mode that is executed when the wind speed is equal to or higher than a second speed (a speed at which it can be determined that there is a storm) that is greater than the first speed.

[0066] When the strong wind mode or the storm mode is set, the target value of the water intake M is larger than when the normal power generation mode is set. Suppose the target values of the water intake M in the strong wind mode and the storm mode are the same, and the target value is A2. Then, the relationship of target value A1 < target value A2 holds. At this time, the target values of the water intake in the strong wind mode and the storm mode may be changed, or they may be the same, or vice versa.

[0067] The control unit 20 varies the target value of the water intake M according to the wind speed received by the wind power generation device unit 100. As described above, the wind speed is higher in the strong wind mode or the storm mode than in the normal power generation mode, and the target value of the water intake M is also larger.

[0068] Note that the target value of the water intake M in the strong wind mode < the target value of the water intake M in the storm mode may be acceptable, and the smaller the wind speed in the normal power generation mode, the smaller the target value of the water intake M may be. In this way, the control unit 20 varies the target value of the water intake M according to the set operation mode. Note that the configuration may be such that the target value of the water intake M increases when the wind speed decreases.

[0069] In the normal power generation mode, in order to improve the power generation efficiency, the blade 110 is raised as high as possible from the sea surface and moved to a position where it receives stronger wind. On the other hand, in the strong wind mode or the storm mode, in order to be less affected by the wind (to reduce the moment around the Y axis due to the wind pressure), the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is submerged as much as possible. Also, when the sea surface L is swaying greatly, by submerging the offshore wind power generation facility 10, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is less affected by the sway of the sea surface L.

[0070] Figure 5C is a diagram for explaining the water intake M in the stop mode. The stop mode is an operation mode for stopping power generation. In the stop mode, the rotation of the blade 110 stops.

[0071] When the stop mode is set, the target value of the water intake M is larger than when the normal power generation mode is set. The target value of the water intake M in the stop mode is the target value A3. The relationship of target value A1 < target value A3 holds. In the stop mode, in order not to be affected by the wind, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is submerged more than in the normal power generation mode. Also, when the sea surface L is swaying greatly, by submerging the offshore wind power generation facility 10, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is less likely to be affected by the sway of the sea surface L.

[0072] Figure 5D is a diagram for explaining the water intake M in the maintenance mode. The maintenance mode is an operation mode executed during the maintenance and inspection of the wind power generation device unit 100 and / or the offshore wind power generation facility 10. In the maintenance mode, the operation inside the wind power generation device unit 100 is stopped, and the maintenance staff performs maintenance and inspection on the wind power generation device unit 100 and / or the offshore wind power generation facility 10.

[0073] In this case, in order to make it easier for the maintenance staff to perform inspections, the target value of the water intake M in the stop mode is set to the target value A4. As a result, the upper surface portion of the float connection portion 220 rises to the position of the sea surface L, and the maintenance and inspection work of the wind power generation device unit 100 and / or the offshore wind power generation facility 10 becomes easier.

[0074] The relationship of target value A4 of the water intake M in the maintenance mode < target value A1 of the water intake M in the normal power generation mode < target value A3 of the water intake M in the stop mode < target value A2 of the water intake M in the strong wind mode and storm mode holds.

[0075] [Air volume adjustment mechanism 190 of float 210] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 6A to 7, various air volume adjustment mechanisms 190 will be described. Inside each of the four floats 210, an air chamber 300 for accumulating air and an air volume adjustment mechanism 190 for variably adjusting the volume of air in the air chamber 300 are provided. The air volume adjustment mechanism 190 is constituted by any of a plurality of mechanisms and variably adjusts the volume of the air chamber 300.

[0076] In the above description, the air volume adjustment mechanism 190 was described as one of a plurality of mechanisms, and was provided with a mechanism in which the lower part of the float 210 described with reference to FIG. 3 and the like was open. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the plurality of mechanisms may include the first to fourth mechanisms shown below, and there is no problem with a configuration other than the first to fourth mechanisms as long as the volume of the air chamber 300 can be controlled.

[0077] FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of a float 210 having a sealed configuration. This is the first mechanism in which a seawater circulation port 321 for circulating seawater 310 in the air chamber 300 is provided. The air volume adjustment mechanism 190 includes the seawater circulation port 321. As a function, it is the same as the mechanism described with reference to FIG. 3 and the like. When air flows into the air chamber 300, the sea level L drops and the volume of air increases. As a result, the buoyancy increases. When air is discharged from the air chamber 300, the sea level L rises and the volume of air decreases. As a result, the buoyancy decreases.

[0078] A discharge valve 414 for controlling the flow rate of the air inside the float 210 discharged to the outside is provided at the discharge port 415 of the discharge pipe 416. An intake valve 411 for controlling the flow rate of the air inhaled from the air tank 330 of the air volume adjustment device 260 into the air chamber 300 inside the float 210 is provided at the intake port 412 of the intake pipe 413.

[0079] When it is not desired to change the draft M, the control unit 20 controls to close the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414. Thereby, the volume of the air chamber 300 is kept constant. However, when the pressure sensor 280 detects an abnormal pressure, for safety, the discharge valve 414 may be opened to discharge air from the discharge pipe 416.

[0080] The pressure sensor 280 is used to check whether an abnormal pressure is detected. Further, the amount of air flowing in by the opening of the intake valve 411 is monitored by the volume detected by the volume sensor 270 and / or the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 280.

[0081] The air tank 330 holds the air compressed by the compressor 340. When reducing the water intake M, the compressed air in the air tank 330 is allowed to flow through the intake pipe 413 to increase the volume of the air chamber 300. At this time, the flow rate of the inflowing air can be controlled by adjusting the opening and closing time of the intake valve 411 by the control unit 20.

[0082] Figures 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the details of the air tank section 335. In the description of Figures 10A and 10B, a configuration including the compressor connection pipe 417, the compressor 340, the air tank 330, the intake pipe 413, the discharge pipe 416, and the control unit 20 is referred to as the "air tank section 335".

[0083] As shown in Figure 10A, the compressor 340 takes in the air in the atmosphere through the compressor connection pipe 417 connected to the compressor 340, generates compressed air, and accumulates it in the air tank 330. The air tank 330 is connected to an intake pipe 413 for allowing the compressed air to flow into the air chamber 300.

[0084] A pressure sensor 331 is disposed inside the air tank 330. The pressure sensor 331 detects the pressure value inside the air tank 330. The detected pressure value is transmitted to the control unit 20. The control unit 20 operates the compressor 340 based on the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 331 so that the inside of the air tank 330 reaches a predetermined pressure value.

[0085] In this way, based on the detection value of the pressure sensor 331, by temporarily storing the compressed air from the compressor 340 in the air tank 330, it becomes possible to hold the air above a predetermined pressure at a possible timing, eliminating the need to increase the capacity of the compressor 340 more than necessary, enabling the compressor 340 to be made smaller and lighter, and the floating body structure part 200 to be made smaller and lighter, and also enabling a significant cost reduction.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 10B, the air tank section 335 shown in Fig. 10A may be configured to be connected to each float 210 respectively. For example, the air tank 330 may be installed facing the float 210 with the float connection part 220 interposed therebetween. The suction pipe 413 and the discharge pipe 416 are arranged inside the float connection part 220 to connect the air tank 330 and the float 210. The discharge pipe 416 may be arranged to penetrate inside the air tank 330. The control unit 20 individually controls the suction valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 of the air tank section 335 installed for each float 210.

[0087] The control unit 20 acquires the detected values of the air volume and pressure in the air chamber 300 from the volume sensor 270 and the pressure sensor 280 provided in the air chamber 300 of each float 210. The control unit 20 adjusts the air volume or pressure in the air chamber 300 by controlling the opening and closing and the opening and closing time of the suction valve 411 and the discharge valve 414. As shown in Fig. 10A, a control unit 20 may be installed for each air tank section 335, or as shown in Fig. 10B, one control unit 20 may be installed for all the air tank sections 335. The control unit 20 is connected to the compressor 340, the volume sensor 270, the pressure sensor 280, the suction valve 411, and the discharge valve 414 of each air tank section 335.

[0088] Note that the air tank section 335 is not limited to such a configuration and may be arranged at a free position. Also, it is not limited to installing an air tank 330 for each float 210, and as shown in Fig. 3, one air tank 330 may be installed.

[0089] Return to the description of FIG. 6A. When increasing the water intake amount M, the volume of the air chamber 300 is decreased by discharging air from the discharge pipe 416. At this time, the control unit 20 opens the discharge valve 414, and controls the volume of the air chamber 300 and the water intake amount M by adjusting the flow rate of the discharged air based on one or more detected values of the water intake detection device 250, the volume sensor 270, and the pressure sensor 280. Since water pressure is applied to the air chamber 300, when the discharge valve 414 is opened, air is discharged from the discharge pipe 416.

[0090] Based on the inclination and swing amount detected by the swing detection device 240 and the water intake amount M detected by the water intake detection device 250, the control unit 20 controls the opening and closing and the opening and closing time of the suction valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 so that the inclination, the swing amount, and the water intake amount M follow specific target values, and adjusts the air volume or pressure in the air chamber 300 provided in each of the four floats 210. Further, the control unit 20 controls the operation of the compressor 340 based on the detected value of the pressure sensor 331 inside the air tank 330. Therefore, the compressor 340, the suction valve 411, and the discharge valve 414 are controlled by the control unit 20.

[0091] In this way, based on the detected values of the water intake detection device 250 and the swing detection device 240, the control unit 20 controls the opening and closing time of the suction valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 based on one or more detected values of the volume sensor 270 and the pressure sensor 280, thereby controlling the water intake amount and the swing amount.

[0092] At this time, without referring to the values of the volume sensor 270 and the pressure sensor 280, the control of the water intake amount and the swing amount may be performed based on the results calculated from the detected values of the water intake detection device 250 and the swing detection device 240.

[0093] Also, the control of the water intake amount and the swing amount may be performed based on the detected value of either one of the water intake detection device 250 and the swing detection device 240.

[0094] Furthermore, instead of the water intake detection device 250 and the swing detection device 240, a configuration may be adopted in which the water intake amount and the swing amount are calculated based on the detection results of the pressure sensor 280 or the volume sensor 270, and the water intake amount and the swing amount are controlled.

[0095] In this embodiment, the opening and closing control of the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 is performed based on one or more values among the detection value of the volume sensor 270, the detection value of the pressure sensor 280, the opening and closing time of the intake valve 411, the opening and closing time of the discharge valve 414, the detection value of the swing detection device 240, and the detection value of the water intake detection device 250. However, a flow sensor may be disposed somewhere in the intake pipe 413 and / or the discharge pipe 416, and the intake valve 411 and / or the discharge valve may be controlled based on the detection value of the flow sensor.

[0096] In this embodiment, the compressor 340 is driven based on the detection value of the pressure sensor 331. However, a pipe may be provided between the air tank 330 and the compressor 340, a flow sensor may be disposed in the pipe, and the compressor 340 may be driven based on one or more values among the detection value of the pressure sensor 331, the detection value of the flow sensor in the intake pipe 413, and the detection value of the flow sensor in the pipe between the compressor 340 and the air tank 330.

[0097] Here, the specific target value is, for example, "0 degrees" (pitch angle = 0 degrees and roll angle = 0 degrees) for the target value of the inclination, and "target value A1" for the target value of the water intake amount M in the normal power generation mode. That is, the control is performed so that the inclination = 0 degrees and the water intake amount M = the target value A1. The target value of the water intake amount M varies depending on the operation mode.

[0098] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of the float 210 having the bellows 420. This is a second mechanism provided with the bellows 420 that makes the capacity of the air chamber 300 variable. The air capacity adjustment mechanism 190 includes the bellows 420. The float 210 is provided with the bellows 420 in a bellows shape, and the bellows 420 moves up and down as the capacity of the air in the air chamber 300 changes. Air is accumulated inside the bellows 420, and the bellows 420 is subjected to the water pressure of seawater from the outside. The method of controlling the draft M is the same as that of the first mechanism.

[0099] In the sealed configuration, seawater flows into the air chamber 300. For this reason, since the air in the air chamber 300 is absorbed by the seawater and decreases, the buoyancy changes over time. On the other hand, when the bellows 420 is used, since seawater does not flow into the air chamber 300, the buoyancy can be kept constant.

[0100] FIG. 6C is a diagram showing an example of the float 210 having the elastic member 430. This is a third mechanism provided with the elastic member 430 that makes the capacity of the air chamber 300 variable. The air capacity adjustment mechanism 190 includes the elastic member 430. The float 210 is provided with the elastic member 430, and the capacity of the air in the air chamber 300 changes as the elastic member 430 expands and contracts vertically. Air is accumulated inside the elastic member 430, and the elastic member 430 is subjected to the water pressure of seawater from the outside. The method of controlling the draft M is the same as that of the first mechanism.

[0101] FIG. 6D is a diagram showing an example of the float 210 having the sliding mechanism 440. This is a fourth mechanism provided with the sliding mechanism 440 that makes the capacity of the air chamber 300 variable. The air capacity adjustment mechanism 190 includes the sliding mechanism 440. The float 210 is provided with the sliding mechanism 440, and the capacity of the air in the air chamber 300 changes as the sliding mechanism 440 slides up and down. Air is accumulated inside the sliding mechanism 440, and the sliding mechanism 440 is subjected to the water pressure of seawater from the outside. The method of controlling the draft M is the same as that of the first mechanism.

[0102] When using the elastic member 430, for example, when the elastic member 430 is configured to be in direct contact with seawater, the maintainability deteriorates due to the deterioration of the elastic member 430. As described above, when the sliding mechanism 440 is applied, since there is no such deterioration, the maintainability is improved.

[0103] FIG. 6E is a diagram showing an example of the float 210 having a sealed configuration. This is another configuration example of the float 210 having the sealed configuration shown in FIG. 6A. In this example, four seawater circulation ports (two seawater circulation ports 322 on the side surface and two seawater circulation ports 323 on the bottom surface) for circulating seawater 310 are provided in the float 210. The method of controlling the draft M is the same as that of the first mechanism.

[0104] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the float 210 in which one float 210 has a plurality of air chambers 300. In the examples shown above, one float 210 was configured to be provided with one air chamber 300. However, as shown in FIG. 7, one float 210 may be configured to be provided with a plurality of air chambers 300a to 300c.

[0105] The configuration of each of the air chambers 300a to 300c is the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 3 and the like. In each of the air chambers 300a to 300c, an intake pipe 413, a discharge pipe 416, a volume sensor 270, and a pressure sensor 280 are provided.

[0106] By controlling the opening and closing and the opening and closing time of the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 of each of the air chambers 300a to 300c, the volume of each air can be controlled. In this example, the water level of the seawater 310 entering from the seawater circulation port 325 of the air chamber 300b is the highest, followed by the water level of the seawater 310 entering from the seawater circulation port 324 of the air chamber 300a, and the water level of the seawater 310 entering from the seawater circulation port 325 of the air chamber 300c is the lowest.

[0107] By configuring as described above, each air chamber can be miniaturized, so that devices such as the discharge valve 414 and the suction valve 411 can also be miniaturized. Further, when one fails, more detailed control can be performed, such as being able to perform buoyancy control with the others.

[0108] [Installation example of the draft detection device 250] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the draft detection device 250 according to a modified example and an installation example thereof. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 1A, one draft detection device 250 was installed on the upper surface of the float connection portion 220.

[0109] However, not limited to this, as shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of draft detection devices 250 may be installed. In this example, one draft detection device 250 is installed on the support column 130, and the draft detection devices 250 are installed at two positions with different distances from the draft line L of the floating structure portion 200.

[0110] For example, each draft detection device 250 includes a distance sensor and measures the distance to the draft line L. The draft M may be calculated from the relationship between the measured distance and the installation position of the distance sensor. When a plurality of draft detection devices 250 are installed, the average value of the drafts M calculated from the plurality of draft detection devices 250 may be set as the draft M. Alternatively, any one of the plurality of draft detection devices 250 illustrated in FIG. 8 may be installed.

[0111] Further, in the above description, the swing detection device 240, the draft detection device 250, and the air volume adjustment device 260 are all installed on the surface of the floating structure portion 200 or the like. However, not limited to this, at least a part or all of at least one of the swing detection device 240, the draft detection device 250, and the air volume adjustment device 260 may be disposed inside the support column 130. Since the inside of the support column 130 is hollow, it can be installed using this hollow portion.

[0112] For example, all of the air volume adjustment device 260 may be disposed inside the support column 130, or a part of the water intake detection device 250 may be disposed inside the support column 130. By disposing and protecting inside the support column 130, the waterproof effect can be enhanced.

[0113] [Flowchart] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the process executed by the control unit 20 of the control system 1. Hereinafter, steps will be described as "S". This process may be started periodically (for example, every 10 msec) after the control system 1 is powered on.

[0114] In S101, the control unit 20 acquires input information such as wind speed. Here, in addition to the wind speed, information such as the operation mode (normal power generation mode, maintenance mode, stop mode, etc.) requested to be switched from the user (maintenance staff) is acquired as input information.

[0115] In S102, the control unit 20 sets the operation mode based on the input information. Here, the operation mode, stop mode, and maintenance mode associated according to the wind speed are set.

[0116] In S103, as shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D, the control unit 20 sets the target value of the water intake M according to the operation mode or the wind speed. At this time, a configuration may be adopted in which the target value of the water intake M is separately set according to the wind speed. The relationship of the target value A4 of the water intake M in the maintenance mode < the target value A1 of the water intake M in the normal power generation mode < the target value A3 of the water intake M in the stop mode < the target value A2 of the water intake M in the strong wind mode and storm mode holds.

[0117] In S104, the control unit 20 sets target values for the inclination and the amount of sway of the offshore wind power generation facility 10. In principle, the target values for the inclination and the amount of sway are set to 0. In this case, the inclination and the sway are controlled so that the longitudinal direction of the support column 130 becomes the vertical direction. Note that this target value is merely an example, and the target value may be determined so as to keep an angle in a slightly inclined state, or the target value may be made variable according to the wind speed.

[0118] In S105, the control unit 20 acquires the water intake amount M from the water intake amount detection device 250. In S106, the control unit 20 acquires the inclination and the amount of sway from the sway detection device 240.

[0119] In S107, based on the difference between the acquired inclination and the target value of the inclination, the difference between the acquired amount of sway and the target value of the amount of sway, and the difference between the acquired water intake amount M and the target value of the water intake amount M, the control unit 20 determines, by the calculation of the calculation unit 23 of the control unit 20, the opening / closing and the opening / closing time of the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414. Also, in S107, the control unit 20 determines a drive command for the compressor 340 according to the detected value of the pressure sensor 331.

[0120] In S108, the control unit 20 controls the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 based on the determined opening / closing and the opening / closing time of the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414. Also, in S108, the control unit 20 controls the operation of the compressor 340 based on the determined drive command for the compressor 340, and ends the process. The main processes of S101 to 108 are started every 10 msec.

[0121] Also, after the process of S108 ends, the process may return to S101 (process LP1). Thereby, the processes of S101 to 108 are repeated. At that time, it may be adjusted so that the processes of S101 to 108 are repeated every 10 msec by timer processing.

[0122] In this case, the acquisition periods (sampling times) of the input information such as wind speed in S101, the acquisition period (sampling time) of the water intake M in S105, and the acquisition periods (sampling times) of the inclination and the amount of sway in S106 are all 10 msec. Then, the control calculations by S107 and S108 are performed every 10 msec.

[0123] These periods may be the same or different from each other. For example, the acquisition period of the input information such as wind speed, the acquisition period of the water intake M, the acquisition periods of the inclination and the amount of sway, and the period of the control calculation may all be different from each other. For this main process, prepare a process LP1 that returns from the process of S108 to S101, a process LP2 that returns from the process of S108 to S105, and a process LP6 that returns from the process of S108 to S106, and the periods of the loops by each process may be made different.

[0124] Note that in FIG. 9, this embodiment is shown exemplarily, but the order in S101 to S108 may be changed or they may be performed simultaneously.

[0125] Also, the determination of the compressor drive command in S107 may be performed at any timing of S101 to S107 as a separate step from S108.

[0126] Furthermore, the operation regarding the drive of the compressor in S108 may be a separate step as S109, and may be configured to operate the compressor based on the measured value from the pressure sensor 331, and may be performed at any timing of S101 to S109.

[0127] Through the above processing, the control unit 20 controls the opening / closing and opening / closing times of the intake valve 411 and the discharge valve 414 based on the inclination, the swing amount, and the water intake amount M detected by the swing detection device 240 and the water intake amount detected by the water intake amount detection device 250 so that the inclination, the swing amount, and the water intake amount M are set to follow the target values, and adjusts the air volume or pressure of the air chambers 300 provided in each of the four floats 210. Further, according to the detected value of the pressure sensor 331, the air amount or pressure of the air tank 330 is adjusted by driving control of the compressor 340.

[0128] The arithmetic unit 23 of the control unit 20 is a controller (compensator) that performs negative feedback and is designed so that the difference (error) from the target value becomes zero. The controller can be designed by applying known control theories such as PI control, PID control, or state feedback control so that the closed-loop system is stable and the response characteristics are improved.

[0129] The operations of S105 to S108 are the operations of the arithmetic unit 23. The processes of S105 to S108 may be looped at the sampling time (for example, 10 msec) of sensors (the swing detection device 240, the water intake amount detection device 250, the volume sensor 270, the pressure sensor 280, the pressure sensor 331).

[0130] Note that the controller inside the arithmetic unit 23 may be designed by separating the controller for making the inclination follow the target value, the controller for making the swing amount follow the target value, and the controller for making the water intake amount M follow the target value, or may be designed as an integrated controller as described above.

[0131] In the above, the inclination and the amount of swing detected by the sensor are fed back and controlled so that the inclination and the amount of swing become 0 degrees. Specifically, the roll angle and the pitch angle are detected by the sensor, and control is performed so that both the roll angle and the pitch angle become 0 degrees. For example, if the roll angle = -5 degrees and the pitch angle = 0 degrees, the direction of swing is the Y-axis direction (rotation of the roll angle), and the magnitude of swing is -5 degrees. If the roll angle = 0 degrees and the pitch angle = 10 degrees, the direction of swing is the X-axis direction (rotation of the pitch angle), and the magnitude of swing is 10 degrees. Also, the period of swing can be calculated from the time-series data of the inclination.

[0132] For example, a gyro sensor for measuring the angular velocity of the roll angle and a gyro sensor for measuring the angular velocity of the pitch angle may be installed, and by integrating each angular velocity, the roll angle and the pitch angle are calculated, and based on this information, the direction of swing, the magnitude of swing, and the period of swing of the wind power generation device unit 100 may be predicted. Then, a controller for feeding back the direction of swing, the magnitude of swing, and the period of swing may be designed. In addition, an acceleration sensor may be installed, and based on the information obtained from the acceleration sensor, the direction of swing, the magnitude of swing, and the period of swing may be estimated.

[0133] In this case, based on the direction of swing, the magnitude of swing, and the period of swing of the wind power generation device unit 100 predicted based on the detection signal from the swing detection device 240, the control unit 20 controls the air amount adjustment device 260 so that the operation unit 23 of the control unit 20 adjusts the air amount inside each of the four floats 210. Regarding the pressure adjustment, when an abnormal value of the pressure is detected, control may be performed to release the discharge valve 414 to reduce the pressure for safety.

[0134] According to the embodiments described above, the floating structure portion 200 includes a holding portion 230 that holds the support column 130, at least three floats 210 that accumulate air inside, a float connection portion 220 that holds the at least three floats 210 and is connected to the holding portion 230, a control unit 20, an intake valve 411, an exhaust valve 414, and an air volume adjustment device 260 that adjust the air volume inside each of the at least three floats 210, a swing detection device 240 that detects the inclination and swing amount of the wind power generation device portion 100 and the floating structure portion 200, and a water intake amount detection device 250 that detects the water intake amount M of the floating structure portion 200 from the water surface. The control unit 20 controls the air volume adjustment device 260 based on the detection results of the swing detection device 240 and the water intake amount detection device 250 to control the inclination, swing amount, and water intake amount M.

[0135] In this way, based on the detection results of the swing detection device 240 that detects the inclination and swing amount of the wind power generation device portion 100 and the floating structure portion 200 and the water intake amount detection device 250 that detects the water intake amount M, by controlling the intake valve 411, the exhaust valve 414, and the air volume adjustment device 260 that adjust the air volume inside each of the at least three floats 210, the inclination, swing amount, and water intake amount M can be stabilized.

[0136] The floating type of offshore wind power generation method is a power generation method that generates electricity at a distance of 10 km from the shore and is greatly affected by offshore winds and waves. When the inclination and swing of the floating body increase, the wind direction and the blades are not perpendicular, leading to a decrease in power generation, and a strength design considering the inclination and swing is required, resulting in an increase in the overall weight and cost. By configuring as described above, in the floating type of offshore wind power generation equipment, the inclination, swing amount, and water intake amount can be suitably controlled. Thereby, the influence of wind power and wave power can be reduced, the power generation efficiency can be improved, and the device cost can be reduced.

[0137] Furthermore, by reducing the swing of the floating structure portion 200, it becomes possible to achieve a significant reduction in size and cost of the floating structure portion 200, and an offshore wind power generation facility can be realized.

[0138] Further, according to the present embodiment, the plurality of operation modes include at least a normal power generation mode for performing power generation during normal times, a stop mode for stopping power generation, a strong wind mode executed when the wind speed received by the wind power generation device unit 100 is equal to or higher than a first speed, a storm mode executed when the wind speed is equal to or higher than a second speed greater than the first speed, and a maintenance mode executed during inspection of the wind power generation device unit 100. When the strong wind mode or the storm mode is set, the target value of the water intake amount M is larger than when the normal power generation mode is set. When the stop mode is set, the target value of the water intake amount M is larger than when the normal power generation mode is set. The control unit 20 varies the target value of the water intake amount M according to the wind speed received by the wind power generation device unit 100.

[0139] Note that the control unit 20 may change the target value of the water intake amount M according to the operation mode, or may vary the target value of the water intake amount M according to the wind speed received by the wind power generation device unit 100.

[0140] Note that the target value of the water intake amount M may be changed according to the operation mode or may be changed according to the wind speed. Also, in the above-described present embodiment, the strong wind mode and the storm mode have a larger target value of the water intake amount M than the normal power generation mode, but the reverse may be true or they may be set to be the same.

[0141] In the normal power generation mode, in order to improve the power generation efficiency, the blade 110 is moved as high as possible above the sea surface to a position where it receives stronger wind. On the other hand, during the strong wind mode, the storm mode, etc., in order to make it less affected by the wind, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is submerged as much as possible. Also, when the sea surface L is swaying greatly, by submerging the offshore wind power generation facility 10, the offshore wind power generation facility 10 is less affected by the sway of the sea surface L. Thus, by changing the water intake amount according to each operation mode or the wind speed, it is possible to improve the power generation efficiency and stability of the offshore wind power generation facility 10.

[0142] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of this application is indicated by the claims rather than the above description, and it is intended that all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims be included.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0143] 1 Control system, 10 Offshore wind power generation facility, 20 Control unit, 21 Processor, 22 Memory, 23 Arithmetic unit, 100 Wind power generation device unit, 110 Blade, 120 Generator, 130 Support column, 140 Wind speed sensor, 190 Air volume adjustment mechanism, 200 Floating structure unit, 210, 210A to M Floats, 220 Float connection part, 225 Hole, 230 Holding part, 240 Oscillation detection device, 250 Draft detection device, 260 Air volume adjustment device, 270 Volume sensor, 280 Pressure sensor, 300, 300a to 300c Air chambers, 310 Seawater, 320 to 325 Seawater circulation ports, 330 Air tank, 331 Pressure sensor, 335 Air tank part, 340 Compressor, 411 Suction valve, 412 Suction port, 413 Suction pipe, 414 Discharge valve, 415 Discharge port, 416 Discharge pipe, 417 Compressor connection pipe, 420 Bellows, 430 Elastic member, 440 Sliding mechanism, L Draft line, M Draft

Claims

1. A control system for the sway amount and draft of an offshore wind power generation facility, comprising: a floating structure portion that supports a wind power generation device portion and floats on the ocean; a control portion that controls the sway amount and draft of the floating structure portion; In the wind power generation device portion, a blade that rotates by receiving wind, a generator that converts the rotational energy of the blade into electrical energy, and a support column that supports the blade and the generator are provided; The floating structure portion includes: a holding portion that holds the support column; at least three floats that accumulate air inside; a float connection portion that holds the at least three floats and connects them to the holding portion; an air amount adjustment device that adjusts the amount of air inside each of the at least three floats; a first detection device that detects the sway amount of the offshore wind power generation facility; a second detection device that detects the draft of the floating structure portion from the water surface; The control portion controls the air amount adjustment device based on the detection results of the first detection device and the second detection device to control the sway amount and draft. A control system for the sway amount and draft of an offshore wind power generation facility.

2. The control portion controls the air amount adjustment device based on the sway amount detected by the first detection device and the draft detected by the second detection device so that the sway amount and the draft follow a target value, and adjusts the amount of air inside each of the at least three floats. The control system for the sway amount and draft of an offshore wind power generation facility according to Claim 1.

3. The air amount adjustment device has an intake valve and an exhaust valve. The floating structure portion further includes at least three discharge pipes connected to each of the at least three floats, and at least three intake pipes connected to the air amount adjustment device. Each of the at least three intake pipes is connected to the at least three floats. At the discharge port of the discharge pipe, the exhaust valve for controlling the flow rate of the air inside the float discharged to the outside is provided. At the suction port of the intake pipe, the intake valve for controlling the flow rate of the air sucked from the air amount adjustment device into the float is provided. Inside each of the at least three floats, there is provided an air chamber for accumulating air and an air volume adjustment mechanism for variably adjusting the volume of air in the air chamber. The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power generation facility according to claim 1.

4. The air volume adjustment mechanism is a first mechanism provided with a seawater circulation port for circulating seawater through the air chamber, a second mechanism provided with a bellows for variably adjusting the volume of the air chamber, a third mechanism provided with an elastic member for variably adjusting the volume of the air chamber, The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power generation facility according to claim 3, wherein the volume of the air chamber is variably adjusted by any one of a plurality of mechanisms including a fourth mechanism provided with a sliding mechanism for variably adjusting the volume of the air chamber.

5. In the air chamber, a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure of the air in the air chamber and a volume sensor for measuring the volume of the air in the air chamber are provided, The air volume adjustment device is the intake valve, the discharge valve, an air tank for accumulating air to be sent to the air chamber provided in each of the at least three floats via the intake pipe, and a delivery device that is connected to the air tank and drives to deliver air to the air chamber. The control unit controls the opening and closing operations and opening and closing times of the intake valve and the discharge valve based on the swing amount detected by the first detection device and the draft detected by the second detection device so that the swing amount and the draft follow specific target values, and adjusts the volume or pressure of the air in the air chamber provided in each of the at least three floats. The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power generation facility according to claim 3.

6. The first detection device has at least one sensor for detecting an angle, an angular velocity, or an acceleration, and is installed on both or either of the wind power generation device unit and the floating structure unit. The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power generation facility according to claim 1.

7. Based on the direction, magnitude, and period of the swing of the offshore wind power generation facility predicted based on the detection signal from the first detection device, the control unit controls the air volume adjustment device to adjust the air volume inside each of the at least three floats. The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power generation facility according to claim 6.

8. The second detection device having a sensor for detecting distance or pressure, The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power facility according to claim 1, which is installed in both or either of the wind power generation device section and the floating structure section.

9. The control unit, is capable of setting any one of a plurality of operation modes for making the operations of the wind power generation device section and the floating structure section different, The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power facility according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the target value of the draft is made different according to the set operation mode.

10. The plurality of operation modes are, a normal power generation mode for performing power generation during normal times, a stop mode for stopping power generation, a strong wind mode executed when the wind speed received by the offshore wind power facility is equal to or higher than a first speed, a storm mode executed when the wind speed is equal to or higher than a second speed greater than the first speed, The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power facility according to claim 9, including one or more of a maintenance mode executed during inspection of the offshore wind power facility.

11. The control unit makes the target value of the draft different according to the wind speed received by the offshore wind power facility. The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power facility according to claim 2.

12. In the first detection device, the second detection device, and the air amount adjustment device, a part or all of at least one device is disposed inside the support column. The control system for the swing amount and draft of the offshore wind power facility according to claim 1.

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