Floating offshore structures

Abstract

The present application relates to at least one subsea power cable connector (106, 606) configured to connect a subsea power cable (116, 616), at least one anchor connector (114, 314, 414, 514, 614) configured to connect at least one anchor connection (122, 322, 422, 522, 622) for mooring a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) to the bottom of the water, and at least one anchor connector (114, 314, 414, 514, 614) configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure. and at least one switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) configured to at least electrically disconnect an electrical connection to a subsea power cable (116, 616) connected to the subsea power cable connector (106, 606) upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present application relates to a floating offshore structure comprising at least one subsea power cable connector adapted for connecting a subsea power cable and at least one anchor connector adapted for connecting at least one anchor connection for mooring the floating offshore structure to the water bottom.Furthermore, the present application relates to a (floating) power generation system, method and use. [Background technology]

[0002] Nowadays, power generation systems are increasingly used for the supply of electrical energy, in which the generation of electrical energy is based on so-called renewable energy sources. A power generation system comprises at least one power generation device, preferably a plurality of power generation devices.

[0003] For example, wind energy systems or wind power plants having at least one wind turbine as an energy generating device are used as electric energy generating systems. The wind turbine is specifically configured to convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electric energy. In addition to wind energy systems or wind power plants, photovoltaic systems or photovoltaic power plants are also increasingly configured as electric energy generating systems, and typically are provided with a number of photovoltaic modules for electric energy generation.

[0004] Such power generation systems are increasingly found offshore as well as on land. There are many reasons for choosing offshore, for example the available space on land may be limited. Furthermore, it has been shown that it is possible to increase the energy production, for example in wind power plants. Offshore locations are usually characterized by relatively uninterrupted wind conditions and high average wind speeds, which is why, for example, so-called offshore wind energy systems or offshore wind farms are increasingly being built. Due to spatial constraints, for example, offshore photovoltaic parks may be installed.

[0005] Typically, an offshore power generation system comprises multiple offshore structures, such as multiple offshore wind turbines and at least one offshore substation, by which the offshore wind farm is electrically connected, for example, to an onshore substation or to a further offshore substation or converter station.

[0006] Furthermore, onshore substations can be connected to the public power grid. To transmit electrical energy between two offshore structures or between an offshore structure and an onshore structure, power cables are laid between the aforementioned structures in the form of subsea power cables.

[0007] While offshore wind turbines and offshore substations, as well as other offshore structures such as photovoltaic platforms, platforms for gas or oil exploration, have until now commonly been moored to the water bed, in particular on or in the seabed, by foundation structures (e.g. monopiles, tripods, tripiles or jacket foundations), there is increasing consideration of installing floating or floatable offshore structures, e.g. floating power generation devices such as floating offshore wind turbines or floating photovoltaic platforms.

[0008] One of the reasons for using floating offshore structures is the ability to install such structures in areas of great water depth, for example greater than 150 meters.

[0009] The floating or floating offshore structure may comprise at least one floating foundation having at least one float. On the floating foundation a device may be arranged having at least one subsea power cable connector. In a variant, a subsea power cable connector may be arranged on the foundation. The subsea power cable connector is configured to connect a subsea power cable.

[0010] For example, the device mounted on the foundation may be a transformer device having at least one transformer, a wind power generation device, a photovoltaic device, a hydrogen production device, and the like.

[0011] For (permanent) stationary operation of the offshore structure at a particular installation location, the offshore structure is attached to the subsurface bottom (typically the seabed) by at least one mooring mechanism configured to secure the offshore structure to the water bottom in a moored state.

[0012] To that end, the mooring arrangement may comprise at least one anchor connection extending between the anchor at least partially embedded in the water bottom and the floating offshore structure. In this way, the offshore structure comprises at least one anchor connection. The anchor connector is configured to connect the at least one anchor connection for mooring the floating offshore structure to the water bottom. In a variant, two or more anchor connections may be connected or attached to one anchor connector.

[0013] A problem with the described floating offshore structures is that the anchor connections may break or be severed during operation of the offshore structure, for example due to high mechanical loads acting on the anchor connections during operation, ship accidents, or the like.

[0014] Failure of an anchor connection can lead to failure of the connected live subsea power cable, which would lead to a short circuit and therefore a high safety risk due to the high currents regularly flowing through the subsea power cable and / or the high voltages applied to such cables.

[0015] It is therefore an object of the present application to provide a floating offshore structure having a subsea power cable connector for connecting a subsea power cable, which improves safety during operation of the floating offshore structure. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] According to a first aspect of the present application, the object is achieved by a floating offshore structure according to claim 1. The floating offshore structure comprises at least one subsea power cable connector. The at least one subsea power cable connector is configured to connect a subsea power cable. The floating offshore structure comprises at least one anchor connector. The at least one anchor connector is configured to connect at least one anchor connection for mooring the floating offshore structure to the water bottom. The floating offshore structure comprises at least one detection mechanism. The at least one detection mechanism is configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure (e.g. a broken anchor connection of the floating offshore structure or a situation of an anchor connection of the floating offshore structure where the anchor connection is at risk of failure due to high loads). The floating offshore structure comprises at least one switching device. The at least one switching device is configured to at least electrically disconnect (or switch off or disconnect) an electrical connection to the subsea power cable connected to the subsea power cable connector upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure.

[0017] Unlike the prior art, safety during operation of the floating offshore structure is improved by providing a detection mechanism for detecting indications of anchor connection failure, in particular a broken or disconnected anchor connection, and a switching device for interrupting the transmission of current or power through the connected subsea power cable upon such detection. Breakage of live subsea power cables is (reliably) prevented. Unintentional short circuits are avoided.

[0018] The offshore structure according to the present application is a floating offshore structure or an offshore structure that floats during operation. The floating offshore structure or the floating offshore structure comprises at least one subsea power cable connector. For example, two subsea power cable connectors may be provided. The subsea power cable connector is provided for connecting a subsea power cable during operation of the offshore structure. For example, two subsea power cables may be connected to the offshore structure.

[0019] In particular, the subsea power cable is configured to transmit electrical energy. The subsea power cable is preferably a medium voltage subsea cable (in particular between 3 kV and 30 kV) or a high voltage subsea cable (60 kV to 110 kV). The power capacity of the subsea power cable according to the present application is preferably between 3 MW and 2.5 GW. Furthermore, the subsea power cable can also be configured to transmit data.

[0020] In particular, a subsea power cable according to the present application may extend from a subsea power cable connector to the water bottom and then at the water bottom for a certain depth range. If the further connected structure is also an offshore structure, the subsea power cable may extend from the water bottom to a further subsea power cable connector on the further (floating) offshore structure. If the further connected structure is an onshore structure, the subsea power cable may extend substantially at the sea bottom to a further subsea power cable connector on the onshore structure.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, the floating offshore structure may comprise a foundation having at least one float. The floating offshore structure may comprise at least one device disposed on the foundation. The device may comprise at least one subsea power cable connector. Preferably, the device may be a power generation device. Non-exhaustive exemplary devices comprising a subsea power cable connector include a transformer device comprising at least one electric transformer, a wind power generation device (e.g., comprising a tower, a nacelle, a rotor, a generator, etc.), a photovoltaic device (preferably comprising a plurality of photovoltaic modules), and a hydrogen production device, specifically a water electrolysis device.

[0022] As already mentioned, the at least one floating foundation can comprise at least one floating body. The floating body or floating body is independently buoyant, in particular by the buoyancy of the displacement according to Archimedes' principle. The floating body can be, for example, hollow and filled with air or a lightweight solid material. In particular, the floating foundation can substantially form a floating body.

[0023] The floating foundation may preferably be a so-called barge foundation, semi-submersible foundation, spar foundation and / or Tension Leg Platform (TLP) foundation, it being understood that in other variations of the present application other types of floating foundations may be provided.

[0024] According to the present application, the offshore structure comprises at least one anchor connector. In particular, the foundation may comprise at least one anchor connection. The anchor connection is configured to (mechanically) connect the at least one anchor connection. During operation, the offshore structure is attached or moored to the water bottom by the at least one anchor connection.

[0025] The anchor connection according to the present application is preferably an anchor rope and / or an anchor chain. The anchor rope may be made of metal, in particular steel, and / or plastic, in particular at least one fiber composite material. Preferably, two or more anchor ropes may be twisted together to form the anchor connection. A sheath may be provided to protect at least one anchor rope.

[0026] One end of the anchor connection part is connected to the anchor connector (in the installed state of the floating offshore structure) and the other end of the anchor connection part is connected to an anchor (e.g., a weight anchor, a torpedo anchor, etc.). The anchor may be at least partially buried in the water bottom. In particular, the anchor and the anchor connection part form a mooring mechanism. Preferably, the floating offshore structure may have three anchor connections, which may be attached, for example, to a corresponding number of anchor connectors of the offshore structure.

[0027] According to the present application, it has been found that by implementing a detection mechanism for detecting an indication of anchor connection failure, in particular an (actually) broken anchor connection, and a switching device connected to the detection mechanism, the operational safety of a floating offshore structure connected to at least one subsea power cable is improved.

[0028] The detection mechanism is used for direct and / or indirect monitoring of at least one anchor connection of the floating offshore structure, in particular all anchor connections of the floating offshore structure. In particular, the detection mechanism is provided for detecting a broken or severed anchor connection. A broken anchor connection exists at least when a mechanical or structural connection of the mooring mechanism to the anchor is disconnected.

[0029] Detection of an indication of anchor connection failure means detection of a particular event or a particular parameter that is indicative of an anchor connection that is broken (actually or potentially) or that has a high probability of failing (e.g., >95%) (e.g., due to the current load on the anchor connection exceeding a predetermined maximum allowable load). Specifically, a potentially failed anchor connection exists when the detection mechanism detects a parameter or event that is indicative of a broken anchor connection, but may have other contributing factors, such as a flaw in the detection mechanism (e.g., measurement error or the like).

[0030] Upon or after detection of an indication of at least one anchor connection break, in particular a broken anchor connection, at least one electrical disconnection is performed by the switching device for the connection to the floating structure or to the subsea power cable connected to the electrical system of the floating structure. In particular, an interruption of the current flow or an interruption of the energy flow through the at least one subsea power cable connected to the floating structure is performed. In other words, the at least one subsea power cable is de-energized (German: spannungslos, English: de-energized) by the switching device. In particular, the switching device can disconnect or interrupt all current or energy flows of the subsea power cables connected to the floating structure. For example, the switching device can comprise at least one switching module for each connected subsea power cable. Here, the electrical disconnection in particular includes a (suitable) earthing. This eliminates the risk of a short circuit.

[0031] In particular, the switching device is formed in the form of a protection circuit or a destruction circuit. According to the present application, upon or after detection in particular means that the described disconnection is performed at least within a certain period of time after the detection of an indication of anchor connection breakage. The certain period of time may be at least less than 10 seconds, in particular less than 5 seconds, particularly preferably less than 1 second. In other words, the switching device can preferably be configured to electrically disconnect immediately (i.e. in particular within a period of less than 1 second) upon or after the detection of an indication of anchor connection breakage, in particular a broken anchor connection. This in particular means that the switching device is activated upon or after the detection of an indication of anchor connection breakage, in particular at least one broken anchor connection, so that the current supply to the at least one subsea power cable is immediately interrupted.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the floating structure according to the present application, the detection mechanism may comprise at least one position sensor, which may be configured to detect the (instantaneous) position of the floating structure.

[0033] The detection mechanism can include at least one location assessment module that can be configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure based on the detected location and a predetermined range of acceptable locations.

[0034] The at least one location sensor may in particular be a satellite-based location sensor, for example a GPS sensor, a Galileo sensor, etc.

[0035] In particular, the at least one position sensor is configured for a substantially continuous detection of the instantaneous geographical position of the floating offshore structure, in other words the position estimation of the floating offshore structure can be performed in particular continuously.

[0036] The detected positions or detected position data, in particular in the form of geographic coordinates (e.g. GPS data), can be (continuously) provided to a position assessment module. In particular, the position assessment module is configured to evaluate the detected positions or detected position data in order to detect indications of anchor connection failure, in particular failed anchor connections. In particular, according to the present application, it has been found that based on the instantaneous position of the offshore structure, it is possible to (indirectly) determine the status (e.g. failed or intact) of at least one anchor connection.

[0037] Preferably, the permissible (geographical) position range of the floating offshore structure is predefined. In particular, the permissible position range can be determined before and / or during the operation of the floating offshore structure. In particular, the permissible position range defines the maximum movement range of the floating offshore structure moored to the water bottom by at least one anchor connection and can vary depending on parameters such as, for example, the length of the at least one anchor connection (e.g., more than 1000 m), the number of connected anchor connections, and / or the length buffer provided for the at least one subsea power cable.

[0038] For example, the longer the at least one anchor connection or the deeper the water at the location of the floating offshore structure, the larger the radius of movement of the offshore structure during operation. The subsea power cable can have a length buffer or a length margin that takes into account the maximum radius of movement. The length buffer can be realized, for example, by making the cable curve of the subsea power cable from the offshore structure to the water bottom S-shaped, which curve can be provided by at least one floating body arranged on the subsea power cable. In particular, the length buffer is selected to ensure that the subsea power cable is not damaged when the offshore structure is moving within the maximum radius of movement.

[0039] The permissible position range is the same as the maximum movement radius or, preferably, slightly (e.g. 5%) larger in the situation where the maximum movement radius is completely enclosed. The permissible position range ensures in particular that small position deviations caused by measurement inaccuracies but also by weather conditions at the installation site do not lead to the operation of the switching device. Only larger deviations that may endanger the subsea power cable lead to the operation of the switching device. The permissible position range can in particular be defined by limit position data (e.g. geographic coordinates such as GPS coordinates). As long as the detected position data of the floating offshore structure are within the permissible position range, it can be assumed that at least one anchor connection is intact or not damaged. In this case, a current interruption is omitted.

[0040] On the other hand, if the detected position data of the floating offshore structure is outside the permitted position range, an event or parameter may be detected that indicates that at least one anchor connection is (potentially or actually) broken or disconnected (or there is an imminent risk of breakage (>95%)).

[0041] The position assessment module can in particular be configured to (continuously) compare the detected position or the detected position data with an acceptable position range. If it is determined that the detected position or the detected position data of the offshore structure is outside the acceptable position range, a switching device can be (instantly) activated in the described manner. A broken anchor connection can in particular be reliably detected without the need for additional sensors monitoring the anchor connection.

[0042] In a variant of the application, it may be provided that the switching device is activated in the described manner only if the detected position or detected position data of the offshore structure is outside the permitted position range for a certain (predefined) period of time (for example between 0.5 and 10 seconds). If the detected position of the offshore structure is still within the permitted range before the aforementioned period has elapsed, the switching device may not be activated.

[0043] According to a further embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the detection mechanism may comprise (instead of or in addition to the position sensor) at least one anchor connection structure sensor. The anchor connection structure sensor may be configured to (substantially continuously) detect at least one anchor connection structure parameter of the anchor connection of the floating offshore structure. In particular, this means that the anchor connection structure sensor allows monitoring the structural integrity of the anchor connection of the floating offshore structure.

[0044] The detection mechanism may comprise at least one anchor connection structure evaluation module (instead of or in addition to the position evaluation module). The anchor connection structure evaluation module may be configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure based on at least one detected anchor connection structure parameter, and in particular on at least one predetermined allowable anchor connection structure parameter range. In particular, the anchor connection structure evaluation module may evaluate the detected anchor connection structure parameter values ​​substantially continuously.

[0045] In particular, the permissible anchor connection structural parameter range defines a parameter range within which at least one anchor connection of the floating offshore structure is intact or undamaged (and in particular is not yet at imminent risk of failure). In particular, at least one limiting connection structural parameter value may be defined.

[0046] As long as the detected anchor connection structural parameter value of the at least one anchor connection is within the permissible anchor connection structural parameter range, it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection is intact or not damaged. In that case, specifically, electrical disconnection of the current can be omitted. On the other hand, if the detected anchor connection structural parameter value is outside the permissible anchor connection structural parameter range, an event or parameter can be detected that indicates that the at least one anchor connection is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or is at risk of immediate failure with a high probability (>95%)).

[0047] The anchor connection structure evaluation module can in particular be configured to (continuously) compare the detected anchor connection structure parameter value with an allowable anchor connection structure parameter range, and if it is determined that the detected anchor connection structure parameter value is outside the allowable anchor connection structure parameter range, the switching device can be (instantly) activated in the described manner.

[0048] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the detection mechanism may in particular comprise at least one electrical sensor device as anchor connection structure sensor. The electrical sensor device may be configured to (substantially continuously) detect at least one electrical parameter of an electrical conductor guided at least partially along the anchor connection. The detection mechanism may in particular comprise at least one electrical evaluation module as anchor connection structure evaluation module. The electrical evaluation module may be configured to detect indications of anchor connection failure based on the at least one detected electrical parameter and in particular on at least one predefined tolerance electrical parameter range.

[0049] The electrical sensor device may be part of an electrical sensor mechanism. The sensor mechanism may further comprise an electrical (measurement) conductor, e.g. having a forward line and a return line. In one embodiment, the floating offshore structure may comprise at least one electrical sensor mechanism (and in particular one anchor connection monitored thereby).

[0050] The forward line of the electrical conductor may preferably extend from the end of the anchor connection portion connected to the anchor connector to the other end of the anchor connection portion attached to the anchor. The return line of the electrical conductor may continue directly into the forward line and extend from the other end of the anchor connection portion to the end of the anchor connection portion connected to the anchor connector. An electrical sensor device may be connected to the forward line and the return line.

[0051] The conductor may be arranged in the anchor connection such that if the anchor connection breaks, the conductor also breaks (at least approximately simultaneously). In the case of an anchor rope, for example, the conductor may be integrated into the anchor rope. In an anchor chain, the conductor may for example be guided through eyelets attached to the chain links. The conductor may comprise at least one phase of conductor surrounded by an insulating layer.

[0052] The electrical sensor device may specifically comprise a generator configured to apply a specific voltage and / or a specific current to the electrical conductors (specifically the forward and return lines). Furthermore, the electrical sensor device may comprise at least one measurement module for detecting, specifically measuring, at least one electrical parameter (e.g., voltage, current, magnetic field, electric field, etc.) resulting from the electrical parameter applied by the generator and the state of the electrical conductors (e.g., broken or not broken).

[0053] As described, the electrical conductor is attached to the anchor connection such that if the anchor connection breaks, the electrical conductor also breaks. Breaking or disconnecting the electrical conductor causes a detectable change in at least one sensed electrical parameter. Specifically, breaking the electrical conductor causes a change in the sensed electrical parameter such that the sensed electrical parameter (value) is no longer within a predetermined acceptable electrical parameter range.

[0054] The acceptable electrical parameter range specifically defines a parameter range of a measured electrical parameter (e.g., voltage, current, magnetic field, electric field, etc.) within which the electrical conductor and thus also the at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged. Specifically, at least one electrical limit parameter value may be predefined.

[0055] As long as the detected electrical parameter value of the at least one detected electrical parameter is within an acceptable parameter range, it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged. Electrical disconnection of the current is omitted. On the other hand, if the at least one detected electrical parameter value is outside of an acceptable parameter range, an event or parameter may be detected that indicates that the at least one anchor connection is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or is at risk of immediate failure with a high probability (>95%)).

[0056] The electrical evaluation module can in particular be configured to (continuously) compare the detected electrical parameter values ​​with permitted parameter ranges. If the detected parameter values ​​are outside the permitted position ranges, a switching device can be (instantly) activated in the manner described. In particular, a reliable detection of an actually broken anchor connection can be provided.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, in an embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the detection mechanism may comprise at least one optical sensor device. The optical sensor device may be configured to detect at least one optical parameter of a light guide guided at least partially along the anchor connection. The detection mechanism may comprise at least one optical evaluation module. The optical evaluation module may be configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure based on the at least one detected optical parameter and in particular on at least one predetermined tolerance optical parameter range.

[0058] Preferably, the optical sensor arrangement may comprise an optical sensor device and additionally at least one light guide. The floating offshore structure may comprise the optical sensor arrangement (and in particular one anchor connection monitored thereby).

[0059] The light guide is specifically an optical waveguide that can be preferably formed as a linear state sensor. The light guide can have at least one optical fiber that can be surrounded by a protective layer. In particular, the light guide is configured to allow detection of at least one optical parameter indicative of at least the mechanical or structural condition of the anchor connection.

[0060] For example, vibrations (or acoustic emissions) of anchor connections can be detected. These can then be evaluated to draw conclusions about the mechanical or structural condition of anchor connections of floating offshore structures. In particular, light conductors connected to optical sensor devices can be used to detect (potential or actual) anchor connection failures or at least mechanical loads with a high probability of failure (>95%).

[0061] In particular, the light guide is integrated into the anchor connection and is for example at least (radially) surrounded or surrounded by the (outer) sheath of the anchor rope. Alternatively or additionally, the light guide can be guided along the anchor connection by a guiding means (for example an eyelet).

[0062] Preferably, the light conductor can extend along substantially the entire anchor connection (when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the anchor connection). In other words, at least one light conductor can preferably extend substantially from a first end of the anchor connection connected to the anchor connector to the other end of the anchor connection, which other end can be connected to or comprise an anchor (e.g. foundation). In this way, it is possible to monitor the entire anchor connection.

[0063] The optical sensor device may preferably be based on Optical-Time-Domain-Reflectometry (OTDR).

[0064] Preferably, the optical sensor device may comprise at least one measurement signal generator. The measurement signal generator may be configured to couple an optical measurement signal to at least one light conductor of the anchor connection to be monitored. The sensor device may comprise an optical measurement module configured to receive and in particular evaluate a sensor signal generated in response to the optical measurement signal of the light conductor. In particular, the sensor signal may be based on the measurement signal and the state of the light conductor and thus the state of the anchor connection (e.g., broken or not broken). A broken anchor connection may then be detected by evaluating the sensor signal.

[0065] As already mentioned, the optical sensor device can in particular operate according to the OTDR method. For example, the measurement signal generator can couple at least one light pulse, in particular a laser pulse (for example having a duration between 3 ns and 20 μs), as a measurement signal to a light conductor in the form of an optical waveguide. In particular, the measurement module can measure backscattered light as a sensor signal over time. The (continuously) detected optical parameter can in particular be a sensor signal in the form of a detected reflection parameter, for example a backscattered light parameter or a parameter determined therefrom.

[0066] As described, the light guide may preferably be attached to the anchor connection such that if the anchor connection breaks, the light guide also breaks (at least at approximately the same time). Breaking or disconnecting the light guide causes a detectable change in at least one optical parameter. In particular, breaking the light guide causes a change in the detected optical parameter such that the detected optical parameter (value) is no longer within a predetermined acceptable optical parameter range.

[0067] The permissible optical parameter range specifically defines an optical parameter range within which the light guide and thus the at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged. In particular, at least one optical limit parameter value can be predefined.

[0068] As long as the detected optical parameter value of the at least one detected optical parameter is within a permitted parameter range, it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged. Activation of the switching device can be omitted. On the other hand, if the at least one detected optical parameter value is outside the permitted parameter range, an event or parameter can be detected which indicates that the at least one anchor connection is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or is at risk of being damaged immediately with a high probability (>95%)). In particular, a reliable and particularly accurate detection of damaged anchor connections can be provided.

[0069] The optical evaluation module can in particular be configured to (continuously) compare the detected optical parameter values ​​with permitted parameter ranges. If it is determined that the detected parameter values ​​are outside the permitted position ranges, a switching device can be (instantly) activated in the manner described. In particular, a reliable and particularly accurate detection of broken anchor connections can be provided.

[0070] Alternatively or additionally, in an embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the detection mechanism may comprise at least one mechanical sensor. The mechanical sensor may be configured to detect at least one mechanical parameter of a measuring rope guided at least partially along the anchor connection. The detection mechanism may comprise at least one mechanical evaluation module. The mechanical evaluation module may be configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure based on the at least one detected mechanical parameter, and in particular on at least one predetermined allowable mechanical parameter range.

[0071] Preferably, the mechanical measuring mechanism can comprise a mechanical sensor and at least one measuring rope, which can be guided, for example, from one end of the anchor connection to the other end of the anchor connection, in particular parallel along the anchor connection.

[0072] The measuring rope can be attached to the anchor connection in such a way that if the anchor connection breaks, the measuring rope also breaks. Prior to a break or severance, the tension of the measuring rope detectable by the mechanical sensor and / or the travel distance of the measuring rope detectable by the mechanical sensor can be changed, in particular by the broken anchor connection, which can be detected by the mechanical sensor and evaluated by the mechanical evaluation module. In particular, the break of the anchor connection causes a detectable change in the detected machine parameter, such that the detected machine parameter (value) no longer lies within the defined permissible optical parameter range.

[0073] The allowable mechanical parameter range specifically defines a parameter range (e.g., maximum allowable stress range, maximum allowable travel distance, etc.) within which at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged. Specifically, at least one mechanical limit parameter value (e.g., stress limit value, travel distance limit value) can be predefined.

[0074] As long as the detected machine parameter value of the at least one detected machine parameter is within an acceptable parameter range, it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged, whereas if the at least one detected machine parameter value is outside of an acceptable parameter range, an event or parameter may be detected that indicates that the at least one anchor connection is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or at risk of immediate failure with a high probability (>95%)).

[0075] The mechanical evaluation module can in particular be configured to (continuously) compare the detected machine parameter values ​​with a permitted parameter range. If the detected parameter values ​​are outside the permitted parameter range, a switching device can be (instantly) activated in the manner described. A reliable detection of a broken anchor connection can in particular be provided by simple means.

[0076] As already described, the detection mechanism and the switching device may in particular be coupled or connected to each other in such a way that upon detection of a broken anchor connection (directly) a switching operation and thus at least an electrical disconnection can be activated. According to a further preferred embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the floating offshore structure may comprise at least one interface arranged between the detection mechanism (in particular the at least one evaluation module) and the switching device. The at least one interface may be an analogue interface and / or a digital interface and / or a mechanical interface. Preferably, two different interfaces may be provided, such as an analogue interface and a digital interface or a digital interface and a mechanical interface. That may ensure that the described switching operation can be activated even in the case of a defect in the interface. Preferably, upon detection of a broken anchor cable, the detection mechanism may control the switching device via the at least one interface to electrically interrupt the electrical connection to the subsea power cable.

[0077] In a further embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, a further mechanical sensor may be arranged (directly) in, in particular integrated into, the anchor connector. The further mechanical sensor may be configured to detect at least one further mechanical parameter of the anchor connection, such as a load applied by the anchor connection to the anchor connector (e.g. a retaining bolt of the anchor connector). Furthermore, the floating offshore structure may comprise at least one further mechanical evaluation module. The further mechanical evaluation module may be configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure of the floating offshore structure based on the at least one further detected mechanical parameter and in particular on the at least one further predetermined allowable mechanical parameter range. The detection of an indication of anchor connection failure based on the at least one further detected mechanical parameter and in particular on the at least one further predetermined allowable mechanical parameter range is performed in a manner similar to the previously described detection of a broken anchor connection of the floating offshore structure based in particular on the at least one detected mechanical parameter and in particular on the at least one predetermined allowable mechanical parameter range, so that reference is made to the corresponding description to avoid repetition.

[0078] According to a further particularly preferred embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the switching device, in particular as a switching module, may comprise at least one load break switch. The at least one load break switch is in particular configured to switch an (electrical) load. The load break switch may comprise at least one arc-extinguishing module. In particular, the arc-extinguishing module may be arranged at a switching contact of the load break switch. Preferably, the switching device may comprise at least one load break switch for each connected subsea power cable.

[0079] Preferably, the switching device, in particular the at least one load break switch, can be arranged on or in the subsea power cable connector, so that in a safe and simple manner the electrical connection to the connected subsea power cable can be interrupted, in particular the subsea power cable can thus be de-energized.

[0080] Moreover, according to a further embodiment of the floating offshore structure, the switching device can be configured to mechanically disconnect the subsea power cable, preventing uncontrolled disconnection of the de-energized subsea power cable, thereby facilitating repair of damage and further improving safety.

[0081] According to a further embodiment of the floating structure according to the present application, the floating structure may comprise at least one communication device, in particular, the at least one communication device may be coupled to or integrated into the detection mechanism.

[0082] The communication device may be configured to at least upon detection of an indication of anchor connection breakage, in particular a broken anchor connection of the floating offshore structure, transmit at least one warning message to at least one further structure connected to the floating offshore structure via the subsea power cable (where an electrical disconnection has been made, in particular where a disconnection is expected), wherein at least the warning message may include an instruction to electrically disconnect the subsea power cable in the further structure.

[0083] The further structure may be an offshore (floating) structure or an onshore structure.

[0084] For example, the communication device may comprise a radio module. Preferably, the communication device may be coupled to an (optical) communication conductor of the at least one subsea power cable for transmitting the warning message via the (optical) communication conductor. The further structure may comprise a further switching device. The further switching device may be configured to at least electrically disconnect an electrical connection to a subsea power cable connected to a further subsea power cable connector of the further structure (directly) upon reception of the warning message.

[0085] According to a further embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the switching device comprises a receiving module connected to the (optical) communication conductor of the at least one subsea power cable. The switching device, in particular the at least one switching module, may be arranged to at least electrically disconnect the electrical connection to the subsea power cable (as already described) upon receiving, in particular a warning message, in particular from a communication device of the further floating offshore structure (described above).

[0086] According to a further embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the floating offshore structure may comprise at least one activation mechanism configured to activate at least one consumer and / or at least one energy source upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure. The activation may be instantaneous (particularly similar to the activation of a switching device). Particularly, the at least one consumer and / or the at least one energy source may be part of a safety system of the offshore structure. For example, the at least one consumer may be an actuator for closing a door (e.g., for safety reasons, a door or a gate may be automatically closed upon detection), and / or an actuator for interrupting a flow of a fluid (e.g., a flow of hydrogen or a gas produced from hydrogen; for safety reasons, the actuator may be specifically automatically closed a valve or the like of a piping system), and / or a light source (e.g., emergency lighting). For example, the at least one energy source may be a battery and / or a fuel-driven generator (e.g., a diesel generator), configured for example to power the aforementioned (electric) consumers.

[0087] In particular, safety and / or fire protection systems of the offshore structure (or adjacent structures) may be automatically activated upon corresponding detection.

[0088] According to a further embodiment of the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the floating offshore structure may comprise at least one deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate at least one consumer (of the offshore structure and / or of the adjacent structure) and / or at least one energy source (of the offshore structure and / or of the adjacent structure) upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure. The deactivation may be immediate (in particular as with the activation of a switching device), whereby, if necessary, a shutdown time or a ramp-down time or ramp must be taken into account. In particular, the at least one consumer may be a component of the electrolysis system, such as an electrolyser, a compressor, a treatment system, a pump and / or the like. In particular, they allow for an automatic (as fast as possible) stop of the chemical treatment upon a corresponding detection. Furthermore, for example, the at least one energy source may be a wind turbine and / or a photovoltaic system.

[0089] A further aspect of the present application is a (floating) (offshore) power generation system. The power generation system comprises at least one floating offshore structure (as described above). The power generation system comprises at least one subsea power cable (as described above). The power generation system comprises at least one further structure (as described above) electrically connected to the floating offshore structure via the subsea power cable.

[0090] Preferably, the power generation system may be a floating or stationary offshore wind power generation system, or a floating or stationary offshore wind farm. The power generation system may also be a floating or stationary offshore photovoltaic system, or an offshore hydrogen production system. It is understood that the aforementioned systems may be combined. For example, an offshore wind energy system may comprise at least one photovoltaic device and / or at least one hydrogen production device.

[0091] A further aspect of the present application is a method, comprising: - detecting an indication of anchor connection failure (specifically a broken anchor connection of a floating offshore structure) by at least one detection mechanism (of the offshore structure); - electrically disconnecting, by at least one switching device (of the offshore structure), an electrical connection to a subsea power cable connected to a subsea power cable connector of the offshore structure upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure; Includes.

[0092] A further aspect of the present application is the use, in a floating offshore structure, of a detection mechanism configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure and at least one switching device configured to at least electrically disconnect an electrical connection to a subsea power cable connected to a subsea power cable connector of the floating offshore structure upon or after detection of the indication of anchor connection failure.

[0093] The features of the floating offshore structure, the power generation system, the method and the use may be freely combined with each other. In particular, the features of this specification and / or the dependent claims may be independently inventive, either alone or in free combination with each other, and may also wholly or partially avoid the features of the independent claims.

[0094] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and further developing the floating offshore structure according to the present application, the power generation system according to the present application, the method according to the present application and the use of the anchor cable system according to the present application, for which reference is made on the one hand to the patent claims dependent on the independent claims and on the other hand to the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0095] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a floating power generation system according to the present application. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0096] In the figures, like reference numerals are used for like elements, and z denotes the vertical direction and x denotes the horizontal direction.

[0097] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a floating offshore structure 100 or floating offshore arrangement 100 according to the present application.

[0098] As an example in this embodiment (and in further embodiments below), the floating offshore structure 100 shown installed is a floating or floating offshore wind turbine 100.

[0099] However, the following description may apply to further floating offshore structures, such as offshore substations, offshore photovoltaic devices, and offshore hydrogen production devices.

[0100] Specifically, the floating offshore structure 100 according to the present application is characterized in that the floating offshore structure 100 comprises at least one subsea power cable connector 106 and at least one anchor connector 114. The at least one subsea power cable connector 106 is configured to connect a subsea power cable 116. Specifically, when the offshore structure 100 is in operation, i.e. specifically, when it is in an installed state, the at least one subsea power cable 116 is connected to the at least one subsea power cable connector 106 of the offshore structure 100.

[0101] For example, electrical connections of the offshore power cable 116 to generators, converters, etc. of the offshore structure 100 (or PV plant, hydrogen production plant, etc.) and / or internal to further offshore power cable 116 are not shown.

[0102] The subsea power cable 116 is preferably a medium voltage subsea cable (specifically between 3 kV and 30 kV) or a high voltage subsea cable (60 kV to 110 kV). The power capacity of the subsea power cable 116 according to the present application is preferably between 3 MW and 2.5 GW.

[0103] For example, the subsea power cable 116 may comprise three-phase conductors for transmitting electrical power. Additionally, the subsea power cable 116 may incorporate at least one optical fiber as an (optical) communication conductor. It is to be understood that the subsea power cable 116 may comprise additional cable elements, such as at least one insulation layer, at least one shielding layer, at least one armor layer, an outer jacket, a filler material, and / or the like.

[0104] In this application, the offshore structure 100 comprises a floating foundation 104 having at least one buoyant body 132 (as shown). Disposed on the foundation 104 is a device 102, which may specifically comprise at least one subsea power cable connector 106. In other variations of this application, the subsea power cable connector may be disposed in or on the foundation 104.

[0105] In particular, the device 102 is a power generating device 102. As described above, the power generating device 102 in this example is a wind turbine 102 configured to convert kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy. In particular, the generated electrical energy is provided to a subsea power cable 116 via a subsea power cable connector 106.

[0106] As can be seen, the offshore wind turbine 100 of this embodiment of the exemplary embodiment includes two subsea power cable connectors 106, each connected to a subsea power cable 116. The subsea power cables 116 extend from the subsea power cable connectors 106 to a surface 128 of the water bed 126, preferably in an S-shape. To this end, at least one buoyant body 118 may be provided, in particular attached to the subsea power cables 116, which may provide a length buffer.

[0107] As further shown in FIG. 1, at least one subsea power cable 116 is laid on the water bottom 126 at a particular depth range and extends to further structures (not shown here) of the power generation system, such as further floating or non-floating offshore or onshore structures.

[0108] Furthermore, the floating offshore structure 100 includes at least one anchor connector 114. In this example, three anchor connectors 114 are provided. In this example, an anchor connection part 122 is attached to each anchor connector 114. Specifically, the anchor connection part 122 is a part of the mooring mechanism 120. The offshore structure 100 can include at least one mooring mechanism 120.

[0109] Specifically, the mooring mechanism 120 includes at least one anchor connection 122 and an anchor 124. In the illustrated installed and operational condition of the floating offshore structure 100, the anchor 124 is at least partially moored to the water bottom 126. A first end of the anchor connection 122 is attached to the anchor connector 114 and the other end of the anchor connection 122 is attached to the anchor 124.

[0110] According to the present application, the floating offshore structure 100 comprises a detection mechanism 108 and a switching device 112 as a safety system. In particular, the switching device 112 comprises at least one switching module 110, preferably in the form of a load break switch 110. Preferably, at least one switching module 110 may be provided for each connected subsea power cable 116, for example, one load break switch 110 may be provided for each phase conductor of each subsea power cable 116. In particular, the at least one switching module 110 may be located immediately next to the at least one subsea power cable connector 106 or may be integrated into the subsea power cable connector 106.

[0111] The switching device 112 is connected to the detection mechanism 108 via at least one interface 134 (eg, a digital interface, an analog interface, and / or a mechanical interface).

[0112] The detection mechanism 108 is configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure, in particular a broken anchor connection 122, and thus in particular serves to directly and / or indirectly monitor at least one anchor connection 122 of the floating offshore structure 100, in particular all anchor connections 122 of the floating offshore structure 100. A broken anchor connection exists when at least the connection of the mooring mechanism 120 to the anchor 124 breaks.

[0113] Upon detection of an indication of anchor connection failure, at least an electrical disconnection (or switching off) of the electrical connections to the subsea power cables 116 or interruption of power flow through or to the subsea power cables 116 is performed by the switching devices 112. Preferably, a corresponding electrical disconnection is performed on all subsea power cables 116 connected to the floating offshore structure 100. In other words, at least one subsea power cable 116 is de-energized, preferably by activating at least one load break switch 110.

[0114] Specifically, at least the electrical disconnection occurs immediately or immediately upon or after detection of a broken anchor connection 122. This means that the switching device 112 is activated immediately (e.g., <1 second) upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure, such that the energization of the at least one subsea power cable 116 is immediately cut off. In a variant of the present application, the switching device 112 may be activated within a longer period (e.g., less than 10 seconds, preferably less than 5 seconds) upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure, such that the energization of the at least one subsea power cable 116 is immediately cut off.

[0115] Reference number 130 indicates the water surface.

[0116] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure 200 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences from the already shown embodiment are described below. Otherwise, reference is made to the description of Figure 1. In particular, it is noted that, for the sake of overview, certain details of the floating offshore structure 200, such as subsea power cable connectors, anchor connectors, etc., have been omitted.

[0117] The detection mechanism 208 of the floating offshore structure 200 comprises at least one position sensor 240, at least one position evaluation module 242, and at least one memory module 244. The at least one position sensor 240 is specifically configured to detect (specifically measure) the (instantaneous) geographical position of the floating offshore structure 200. The at least one position sensor 240 is specifically a satellite-based position sensor 240 (e.g. GPS sensor, Galileo sensor, etc.). The satellite 248 can continuously transmit a coded signal. From the information contained in the signal, the position sensor 240 can specifically calculate the instantaneous position of the floating offshore structure 200.

[0118] In particular, the at least one position sensor 240 is configured to detect or calculate the instantaneous position of the floating offshore structure 200 substantially continuously.

[0119] The illustrated position assessment module 242 is configured to assess the detected position, specifically to detect the presence of an indication of anchor connection failure. Specifically, the detection of the indication of anchor connection failure is based on the detected geographic position of the floating offshore structure 200 and a predetermined acceptable geographic position range. Specifically, the position range or corresponding position data can be stored in a memory module 244. The memory module 244 can be accessed by the position assessment module 242.

[0120] Specifically, the geographically acceptable location range is the maximum movement range within which the floating offshore structure 200 can move in its installed state without the anchor connections being damaged. This range is indicated by the dashed line 246 in FIG. 2. Specifically, for example, if one of the anchor connections is damaged, the maximum movement range of the floating offshore structure 200 will be large, and therefore the floating offshore structure 200 may be outside the area 246 when the anchor connection is damaged. Therefore, as will be described in more detail, a position monitoring system may be used to reliably detect indications of anchor connection damage, specifically damaged anchor connections.

[0121] In particular, the allowable position range can be determined prior to operation of the floating offshore structure 200. In particular, the allowable position range can vary depending on parameters such as the length of the at least one anchor connection, the number of connected anchor connections, a buffer of the provided length of the at least one subsea power cable, and / or the like. For example, the longer the anchor connection or the deeper the water at the installation site of the offshore structure, the greater the maximum movement range of the floating offshore structure 200.

[0122] The offshore power cable may have a buffer of an appropriate length, for example, an S-shaped curve as shown in Figure 1. For the offshore structure 200 to move within the maximum range of movement or allowable position, it is ensured that the subsea power cable will not be damaged.

[0123] The detected geographic location or detected location data, in particular in the form of geographic coordinates (e.g. GPS data), is here (continuously) provided to a location evaluation module 242. The location evaluation module 242 can (continuously) compare the provided location data with an allowed location range, which can also be defined by the location data.

[0124] If the detected position data is within or complies with the permitted position range (i.e., the floating offshore structure 200 is positioned within the range 246), it can be determined that at least one anchor connection is intact or undamaged, and no operation of the switching device 212 occurs.

[0125] On the other hand, if the position data of the offshore structure 200 is outside or does not fit within the acceptable position range (in which case the floating offshore structure 200 is outside the range 246, e.g., at position X), an event or parameter may be detected that indicates that at least one anchor connection is (potentially or actually) broken or disconnected (or is likely to break imminently).

[0126] As described, the position evaluation module 242 is specifically configured to continuously compare the detected position or detected position data with the permitted position range, and if it is determined that the detected position or detected position data of the floating offshore structure 200 is outside the permitted position range, the switching device 212 can preferably be immediately activated or triggered in the manner described.

[0127] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure 300 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences with respect to the already shown embodiment are described below. Otherwise, reference is made to the description of Figure 1 and / or Figure 2. In particular, it is noted that certain details have been omitted for the sake of overview, such as subsea power cable connectors, subsea power cables, etc. Also, for ease of reference, only one mooring mechanism 320 is shown as an example. It shall be understood that more than one mooring mechanism may be provided.

[0128] The floating offshore structure 300 includes a detection mechanism 308. In this example, the detection mechanism 308 includes an electric sensor device 351 and an electric evaluation module 354. In particular, the electric sensor device 351 includes a generator 350 and a measurement module 352.

[0129] In this example, an anchor chain 322 is provided as the anchor connection 322. In a variant of the present application, an anchor rope can also be provided as the anchor connection.

[0130] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an electric sensor mechanism 348 is provided, which may be formed by an electric sensor device 351 and at least one (measuring) electrical conductor 356. The floating offshore structure 300 may comprise at least one electric sensor mechanism 348 and / or at least one mooring mechanism 320.

[0131] The electrical sensor mechanism 348 comprises at least one electrical conductor 356. The electrical conductor 356 may be guided at least partially along the anchor connection 322. As can be seen in FIG. 3, in this example, the electrical conductor 356 is guided along the entire length of the anchor connection 322, i.e. from a first end of the anchor connection 322 connected to the anchor connector 314 to the other end of the anchor connection 322 connected to the anchor 324. In particular, a number of eyelets 358 may be arranged on the anchor connection 322 for this purpose. The electrical conductor 356 may be guided through the eyelets 356, for example, a first end of the electrical conductor 356 may be connected to the detection mechanism 308 and the other end of the electrical conductor may be connected to the anchor 324. In particular, the other end of the electrical conductor 356 may extend into the anchor 324, such that in case the electrical conductor 356 breaks from the anchor, a part of the electrical conductor 356 always remains in the anchor 324.

[0132] The electrical conductor 356 may have an insulator in the form of a protective layer, specifically the forward line and the return line electrically insulated from each other. A first end of the forward line may be connected to the generator 350, and the other end in the region of the other or lower end of the electrical conductor 356 may be connected to the other end of the return line, which in turn may be connected to the generator 350, thus specifically forming a closed circuit. Furthermore, a measurement module 352 may be coupled to the first ends of the forward line and the return line in order to measure the applied electrical parameters.

[0133] In particular, the generator 350 is configured to apply a particular voltage and / or current to the electrical conductor 356. For example, a particular voltage can be applied to the forward and return lines. In particular, the measurement module 352 is configured to detect, in particular measure, at least one electrical parameter (e.g., voltage, current, magnetic field, electric field present in the electrical conductor 356). For example, the measurement module 352 can measure the current.

[0134] Specifically, when anchor connection 322 breaks, electrical conductor 356 also breaks. Specifically, the break in electrical conductor 356 causes a measurable change in an electrical parameter present in electrical conductor 356. Specifically, an acceptable electrical parameter range may be predefined, which may vary depending on, specifically, the (predetermined) applied electrical parameter, the resistance of electrical conductor 356, and / or the length of electrical conductor 356.

[0135] In particular, the acceptable electrical parameter range defines a parameter range within which at least one anchor connection 322 is considered to be intact or undamaged. In particular, at least one electrical limit parameter value may be predefined.

[0136] As long as the detected electrical parameter value of the at least one detected electrical parameter is within an acceptable parameter range, e.g., does not exceed (or is below) a limit parameter value, it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection 322 is intact. On the other hand, if the at least one detected electrical parameter value is outside of an acceptable parameter range, e.g., if the detected electrical parameter value exceeds (or is below) a limit parameter value, an event or parameter may be detected that indicates that the at least one anchor connection 322 is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or is about to be damaged). The switching device 312 may then be activated in the manner described above.

[0137] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure 400 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences with respect to the already shown embodiments are described below. Otherwise, reference is made to the description of Figures 1, 2 and / or 3. In particular, it is noted that certain details have been omitted for the sake of overview, such as subsea power cable connectors, subsea power cables, etc. Also, for ease of reference, only one mooring mechanism 420 is shown as an example. It shall be understood that more than one mooring mechanism may be provided.

[0138] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, instead of an electrical sensor arrangement as in FIG. 3, an optical sensor arrangement 461 is provided as the anchor connection structure sensor.

[0139] The optical sensor arrangement 461 comprises a measurement signal generator 464 and a measurement module 466. In addition to the optical sensor arrangement 461, the detection mechanism 408 comprises an optical evaluation module 468.

[0140] Furthermore, at least one anchor connection 422 is formed as an anchor rope 422. Here, a light conductor 462 in the form of a light guide 462 is integrated into the anchor rope 422. As can be seen, in the illustrated preferred embodiment, the optical fiber 462 extends from a first end of the anchor rope 422 attached to the anchor connector 414 to the other end of the anchor rope 422 attached to the anchor 424. In particular, the first end of the light guide may be coupled to the sensor device 461. The sensor device 461 and the light guide 462 may form an optical sensor mechanism. The other end of the light guide 462 may be attached to the anchor 424. In particular, the other end of the light guide 462 may extend into the anchor 424 such that if the optical fiber 462 breaks and separates from the anchor 424, a portion of the optical fiber 462 always remains within the anchor 424.

[0141] The measurement signal generator 464 is here configured to couple an optical measurement signal to at least one light conductor 462 of the anchor connection 422 to be monitored. The optical measurement module 466 is here configured to receive and in particular evaluate a sensor signal generated in response to the optical measurement signal of the light conductor 462. In particular, the evaluation can be based on the measurement signal and the sensor signal that caused the measurement signal to determine whether the anchor connection 422 is broken or not.

[0142] The illustrated optical assessment module 468 is configured to detect a broken anchor connection 422 based on at least one detected optical parameter and at least one predetermined acceptable optical parameter range.

[0143] The optical sensor device 461 is in this example operated in particular according to the OTDR method. For example, the measurement signal generator 464 can couple at least one light pulse, in particular a laser pulse (for example having a duration of 3 ns to 20 μs), as a measurement signal into the light conductor 462. In particular, the backscattered light can be measured over time as a sensor signal by the measurement module 466. The time dependence of the sensor signal can for example be converted into a position dependence, so that a spatially resolved measurement of the state of the mechanical structure of the anchor connection 422 can be made (for example based on vibration data, sound data, etc. obtained from the measurement signal). The (continuously) detected optical parameter is in particular the sensor signal, which can be a detected reflection parameter, for example a backscattered light parameter or a parameter determined therefrom.

[0144] Light conductor 462 is attached to, and specifically integrated with, anchor connection 422 such that if anchor connection 422 breaks, light conductor 462 also breaks. Breaking or disconnecting light conductor 462 causes a detectable change in at least one sensed optical parameter. Specifically, breakage of light conductor 462 causes a change in the sensed optical parameter such that the sensed optical parameter (value) is no longer within a predetermined acceptable optical parameter range.

[0145] In particular, the acceptable optical parameter range defines a parameter range within which at least one anchor connection 422 is intact or undamaged. In particular, at least one optical limit parameter value may be predefined.

[0146] As long as the detected optical parameter value of the at least one detected optical parameter is within the permitted parameter range, i.e. in particular does not exceed (or is below) the optical limit parameter value, it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection is intact or not damaged. On the other hand, if the at least one detected optical parameter value is outside the permitted parameter range, e.g. if the optical limit parameter value is exceeded (or is below), it can be assumed or such an event can be detected that the at least one anchor connection 422 is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or at high risk of immediate damage). The switching device 412 can then be activated in the manner described above.

[0147] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure 500 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences with respect to the already shown embodiments are described below. Otherwise, reference is made to the description of Figures 1, 2, 3 and / or 4. In particular, it is noted that certain details such as subsea power cable connectors, subsea power cables, etc. have been omitted for the sake of overview. Also, for ease of reference, only one mooring mechanism 520 is shown as an example. It shall be understood that more than one mooring mechanism may be provided.

[0148] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the anchor connection structure sensor is a mechanical sensor device 575 instead of an electrical sensor device as in Figure 3 or an optical sensor device as in Figure 4. In variations of the present application, different sensor devices can be provided.

[0149] In this example, the anchor connection 522 is a combination of an anchor chain 522.1 and an anchor rope 522.2. According to the illustrated preferred embodiment, e.g. using eyelets as guiding elements, a measuring rope 572 is guided along the entire length of the anchor connection 522. A first end can be coupled to a mechanical sensor device 575. The sensor device 575 and the measuring rope 572 can form a mechanical sensor mechanism. The other end of the sensing cable 572 can be attached to the anchor 524.

[0150] In this example, the mechanical sensor device 575 is formed in particular by a mechanical sensor 576 coupled to the measuring rope 572. In particular, the mechanical sensor 576 is configured to detect at least one mechanical parameter of the measuring rope 572.

[0151] In this embodiment, the detection mechanism 508 further comprises at least one mechanical assessment module 574. The mechanical assessment module 574 can be configured to detect a broken anchor connection 522 based on at least one detected mechanical parameter and at least one predetermined acceptable mechanical parameter range.

[0152] The measuring rope 572 can be attached to the anchor connection 522 in such a way that if the anchor connection 522 breaks, the measuring rope 572 also breaks. Prior to a break or severance of the measuring rope 572, the tension of the measuring rope detectable by the mechanical sensor 576 and / or the travel distance of the measuring rope 572 detectable by the mechanical sensor 576 may be altered, in particular by the broken anchor connection 522, which can be detected by the mechanical sensor 576 and evaluated by the mechanical evaluation module 574. In particular, the break of the anchor connection 522 causes a change in the detected machine parameter such that the detected machine parameter (value) no longer falls within the predefined tolerance optical parameter range.

[0153] In particular, the allowable mechanical parameter range defines a parameter range (e.g., maximum allowable stress range, maximum allowable movement range, etc.) within which at least one anchor connection 522 is intact or undamaged. In particular, at least one mechanical limit parameter value (e.g., stress limit value, movement distance limit value) may be defined.

[0154] As long as the detected machine parameter value of the at least one detected machine parameter is within an acceptable parameter range, i.e. in particular a limit parameter value is not exceeded (or below), it can be assumed that the at least one anchor connection 522 is intact or not damaged. On the other hand, if the at least one detected machine parameter value is outside an acceptable parameter range, i.e. for example a limit parameter value is exceeded (or below), an event or parameter can be detected which indicates that the at least one anchor connection 522 is (potentially or actually) damaged or disconnected (or at high risk of immediate damage). The switching device 512 can then preferably be immediately activated as described above.

[0155] The described embodiments of figures 2 to 5 can be combined with one another. For example, the embodiment of figure 2 can be combined with the embodiment of figures 3 to 5. In this way, for example, indications of anchor connection failure, in particular a broken anchor connection, can be reliably detected even in case of a position sensor failure or an anchor connection structural sensor failure. Also, in a variant of the present application, a further (not shown) mechanical sensor can be arranged (directly) on the anchor connection, in particular integrated therein, and can be configured to detect at least one further mechanical parameter of the anchor connection, such as a load acting by the anchor connection on the anchor connection (for example a retaining bolt of the anchor connection). The further mechanical evaluation module can be configured to detect indications of anchor connection failure based on the at least one further detected mechanical parameter and in particular on at least one further predefined allowable mechanical parameter range.

[0156] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a floating power generation system 684 according to the present application.

[0157] To avoid repetition, only the differences from the previously described embodiment are described below. Otherwise, reference is made to the description of Figures 1, 2, 3, 4 and / or 5. In particular, it is noted that certain details have been omitted for the sake of overview. In particular, detection of anchor connection failure can be performed according to the description regarding Figures 1, 2, 3, 4 and / or 5.

[0158] The power generation system 684 comprises at least one floating offshore structure 600.1 having a switching device 612 according to the present application and a detection mechanism 608 according to the present application (see in particular Figures 1 to 5).

[0159] Furthermore, the power generation system 684 comprises at least one subsea power cable 616 as described above and at least one further structure 600.2 electrically connected to the floating offshore structure 600.1 via the subsea power cable 616. In this example, the further structure 600.2 is formed as a further floating offshore structure 600.2 formed to be substantially identical to the first floating offshore structure 600.1.

[0160] The switching devices 612 of the floating offshore structures 600.1, 600.2 in addition to at least one switching module 610 in particular comprise a receiving module 680. The receiving module 680 in particular is connected to the (optical) communication conductor of at least one connected subsea power cable 616, preferably to all subsea power cables 616 connected to the respective floating offshore structures 600.1, 600.2. In other variants of the present application, a receiving module capable of operating wirelessly (e.g. a radio module) can alternatively or additionally be provided.

[0161] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the floating offshore structures 600.1, 600.2 are equipped with a communication device 682. Preferably, the communication device 682 may be coupled to the detection mechanism 608. Preferably, additionally, the communication device 682 may be coupled to an (optical) communication conductor of at least one connected subsea power cable 616, preferably to all subsea power cables 616 connected to the floating offshore structures 600.1, 600.2. In other variants of the present application, a communication device capable of operating wirelessly (e.g. a radio module) may alternatively or additionally be provided.

[0162] In a variant of the present application, the communication device may incorporate a receiving module.

[0163] An exemplary method of operation is described in more detail below with the aid of Fig. 7. Fig. 7 shows a diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the present application.

[0164] Basically, the status of the at least one anchor connection can be continuously monitored by the detection mechanism according to the present application. In particular, it can be continuously checked whether at least one detected parameter (e.g., geographical position, electrical parameter, optical parameter, and / or mechanical parameter) satisfies at least one allowed parameter range (e.g., position range, electrical parameter range, optical parameter range, and / or mechanical parameter range). In particular, the continuously detected parameter values ​​of the at least one parameter can be continuously compared with at least one allowed parameter range to determine whether the parameter value is within the allowed parameter range.

[0165] In step 701, detection of an indication of anchor connection failure is performed by a detection mechanism of the first floating offshore structure, in particular based on a determination that the detected parameters do not meet, in particular are outside, the acceptable parameter range.

[0166] Optionally, in step 702, upon detection of an indication of anchor connection failure or immediately thereafter, a warning message can be sent by the communication device of the first floating offshore structure so that power is cut off to at least one further structure connected to the first floating offshore structure via a subsea power cable.

[0167] The warning message may include an instruction to electrically disconnect the connection to the subsea power cable. The further structure may for example be a further floating offshore structure, as shown in Figure 6. Preferably, the communication device may be configured to transmit the warning message via the (optical) communication conductor of the subsea power cable so that the current flow is interrupted.

[0168] Then, in step 703, after or upon (immediately) detection of an indication of anchor connection failure and / or after (immediately) transmission of a warning message, an electrical disconnection of at least the electrical connections to the subsea power cables is performed by the switching device, in particular all subsea power cables connected to the offshore structure are de-energized, in particular by load break switches of the switching device.

[0169] In optional step 704, the transmitted warning message is received by a receiving module of a switching device of the further structure.

[0170] In optional step 705, at least an electrical connection to the subsea power cable electrically connecting the further structure to the first floating offshore structure is electrically disconnected by a switching device of the further structure.

Claims

1. at least one subsea power cable connector (106, 606) configured to connect a subsea power cable (116, 616); at least one anchor connector (114, 314, 414, 514, 614) configured to connect at least one anchor connection (122, 322, 422, 522, 622) for mooring the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) to the bottom of the water; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprising: The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) further comprises: at least one detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure; at least one switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) configured to at least electrically disconnect an electrical connection to said subsea power cable (116, 616) connected to said subsea power cable connector (106, 606) upon or after said detection of an indication of said anchor connection failure (122, 322, 422, 522, 622); A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600), comprising:

2. said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprising a foundation (104, 204, 304, 404, 504, 604) having at least one floating body (132); said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprising at least one device (102, 202, 302, 402, 402, 602) arranged on said foundation and having said subsea power cable connector (106, 606); said device (102, 202, 302, 402, 402, 602) is in particular a power generating device (102, 202, 302, 402, 402, 602) A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to claim 1.

3. said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one position sensor (240) configured to detect the position of said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600); said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one position assessment module (242) configured to detect an indication of a failure of said anchor connection based on the detected position and a predefined range of acceptable positions; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one anchor connection structure sensor configured to detect at least one anchor connection structure parameter of said anchor connection; said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one anchor connection structural evaluation module configured to detect an indication of said anchor connection failure based on at least one detected anchor connection structural parameter and at least one predefined acceptable anchor connection structural parameter range; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one electrical sensor device (351) configured to detect at least one electrical parameter of an electrical conductor (356) guided at least partially along said anchor connection (122, 322, 422, 522, 622); said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one electrical evaluation module (354) configured to detect an indication of said anchor connection failure based on at least one detected electrical parameter and at least one predetermined tolerance parameter range; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one optical sensor device (461) configured to detect at least one optical parameter of an optical waveguide (462) guided at least partially along said anchor connection (122, 322, 422, 522, 622), said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one optical evaluation module (468) configured to detect an indication of said anchor connection failure based on at least one detected optical parameter and at least one predetermined tolerance optical parameter range; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one mechanical sensor device (575) configured to detect at least one mechanical parameter of a measuring rope (572) guided at least partially along said anchor connection (122, 322, 422, 522, 622); said detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) comprises at least one mechanical evaluation module (574) configured to detect an indication of said anchor connection failure based on at least one detected mechanical parameter and at least one predetermined acceptable mechanical parameter range; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. said floating structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprises at least one interface (134, 234, 334, 434, 534, 634) arranged between said detection mechanism and said switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612); said at least one interface (134, 234, 334, 434, 534, 634) being an analog interface (134, 234, 334, 434, 534, 634), and / or a digital interface (134, 234, 334, 434, 534, 634), and / or a mechanical interface (134, 234, 334, 434, 534, 634); A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. said switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) comprises at least one load interrupt switch A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. said switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) is configured to mechanically disconnect said subsea power cable (116, 616); A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprises at least one communication device (682) configured to transmit a warning message upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure to at least one further structure (600.2) connected to said offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) via said subsea power cable (116, 616); said warning message comprises an instruction to electrically disconnect the electrical connection to said subsea power cable (116, 616) in said further structure (600.2); A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. said switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) comprises at least one receiving module (680) configured to receive at least one warning message comprising a command to electrically disconnect said subsea power cable (116, 616); said switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) is configured to at least electrically disconnect an electrical connection to said connected subsea power cable (116, 616) upon receipt of said warning message; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. said floating structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprises at least one activation mechanism configured to activate at least one consumer and / or at least one energy source upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure; said at least one consumer is an actuator for closing a door and / or an actuator for interrupting the flow of a fluid and / or a light source; and / or said at least one energy source being a battery and / or a fuel-powered generator; A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) comprises at least one deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate at least one consumer and / or at least one energy source upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure; said at least one consumer is at least one component of an electrolysis system, and / or said at least one energy source is a wind turbine and / or a photovoltaic system A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. - at least one floating structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, at least one subsea power cable (116, 616); at least one further structure (600.2) electrically connected to said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) via said subsea power cable (116, 616); A power generation system (684).

16. - detecting an indication of anchor connection failure by at least one detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608); electrically disconnecting, by at least one switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612), an electrical connection to said subsea power cable (116, 616) connected to a subsea power cable connector (106, 606) of said offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) upon or after detection of an indication of said anchor connection failure; A method comprising:

17. Use of a detection mechanism (108, 208, 308, 408, 508, 608) configured to detect an indication of anchor connection failure, and at least one switching device (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) configured to at least electrically disconnect an electrical connection to a subsea power cable connected to a subsea power cable connector of a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) upon or after detection of an indication of anchor connection failure in the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600).

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