A floating offshore platform including a horizontal member with a partitioned and integrated tank within two horizontal members.

Abstract

A floating offshore platform (2) including a support structure (4), comprising a transverse member (8) configured to extend between first and second structural elements (6, 7), the transverse member (8) being formed of a plurality of jointly connected pipes (10), and including a tank (12) partitioned inside at least two pipes (10) which are jointly connected such that the individual volumes of at least two pipes (10) are in a fluid-connected state; and at least three connections (16), each configured to mechanically connect the end of one pipe (10) of the transverse member (8) to one of the first and second structural elements (7), wherein each connection (16) with the first structural element (6) is a bolted flange connection (16), and / or each connection (16) with the second structural element (7) is a bolted flange connection (16).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of floating offshore platforms, particularly floating offshore platforms for wind turbines.

Background Art

[0002] A floating offshore platform includes a support structure configured to support facilities of an offshore platform, such as a wind turbine. The support structure includes structural elements, such as columns connected by cross-members extending transversely between the columns to maintain a transverse spacing between the columns, and a plurality of metal structural elements welded together. Each column can define a floater, i.e., provide buoyancy.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] It is possible to provide a tank integrated within the tube of a tubular cross-member. The tank is fluidly connected, for example, to a fluid component supported by the support structure.

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of the present invention is to propose a floating offshore platform that is easy to install, operate, and maintain, and has a simple, robust, compact, and lightweight marine structure.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To this end, the present invention proposes a floating offshore platform comprising a support structure, wherein the support structure is a transverse member configured to extend between a first structural element and a second structural element of the support structure, the transverse member being formed of a plurality of connected tubes, the transverse member including a tank for storing a fluid partitioned inside at least two of the tubes of the transverse member, the at least two tubes being connected such that the individual volumes of the at least two tubes are fluid-connected; and at least three connections, each connection configured to mechanically connect the end of one tube of the transverse member to one of the first structural element and the second structural element, the respective connection to the first structural element being a bolted flange connection, and / or the respective connection to the second structural element being a bolted flange connection.

[0006] The tubular crossbars that integrate the tanks provide a compact and lightweight offshore structure with a simple yet robust design, while being easy to install, operate, and maintain.

[0007] A tank partitioned within at least two tubes of a connected transverse member offers a large storage capacity and increases the possibility of fluid connection, on the one hand with the tank and on the other hand with the first and second structural elements.

[0008] The tank is connected to the fluid equipment, for example, via one end of one of the at least two pipes that partition the tank, and via one end of the other of the at least two pipes that partition the tank.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the floating offshore platform includes one or more of the following features, either individually or in any technically feasible combination: - A horizontal member comprises one or more primary tubes, each primary tube having one end to be connected to a first structural element and / or one end to be connected to a second structural element; - The tank is partitioned within at least one primary pipe; - The cross members include at least one primary pipe in which the tank is not partitioned internally; - The horizontal member includes two primary tubes positioned vertically relative to each other, each of which has one end connected to a first structural element and the other end connected to a second structural element; - Each crossbar includes at least one secondary tube, the two ends of each secondary tube connected to the other tubes of the crossbar; - The cross member includes at least one secondary pipe having an end connected to two primary pipes; - The tank is partitioned by at least one secondary pipe; - The tank is fluid-coupled to a first structural element via a coupling that connects the cross members to the first structural element, and / or the tank is fluid-coupled to a second structural element via a coupling that connects the cross members to the second structural element; - The connection includes an upper first connection and a lower first connection that connect the horizontal members to the first structural element; - The tank is fluidly connected to the first structural element via an upper first connection and / or a lower first connection; - The connection includes an upper second connection and a lower second connection that connect the horizontal member to the second structural element; - The tank is fluidly connected to the second structural element via an upper second connection and / or a lower second connection; Each bolted flange connection is equipped with a sealing assembly for sealing the bolted flange connection.

[0010] The present invention also relates to a wind turbine assembly, which includes a floating offshore platform as defined above and a wind turbine supported by the floating offshore platform.

[0011] The present invention and its advantages will be better understood by reading the following description, which is shown with reference to the accompanying drawings as merely non-limiting embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a partial side view of a floating offshore platform including a support structure having a transverse member extending between two structural elements relating to different embodiments. [Figure 2] This is a partial side view of a floating offshore platform including a support structure having a transverse member extending between two structural elements relating to different embodiments. [Figure 3] This is a partial side view of a floating offshore platform including a support structure having a transverse member extending between two structural elements relating to different embodiments. [Figure 4] This is a partial side view of a floating offshore platform including a support structure having a transverse member extending between two structural elements relating to different embodiments. [Figure 5] This is a partial side view of a floating offshore platform including a support structure having a transverse member extending between two structural elements relating to different embodiments. [Figure 6] This is a partial side view of a floating offshore platform including a support structure having a transverse member extending between two structural elements relating to different embodiments. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of a structural assembly component including a bolted flange connection between a structural element of a support structure and a transverse member tube, according to a different embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of a structural assembly component including a bolted flange connection between a structural element of a support structure and a transverse member tube, according to a different embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of a structural assembly component including a bolted flange connection between a structural element of a support structure and a transverse member tube, according to a different embodiment. [Figure 10]Cross-sectional view of a structural assembly part including a flange connection fastened by bolts between a structural element of a support structure and a pipe of a cross member according to different embodiments. [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view of a structural assembly part including a flange connection fastened by bolts between a structural element of a support structure and a pipe of a cross member according to different embodiments.

[0013] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the floating offshore platform 2 includes a support structure 4 including a first structural element 6 and a second structural element 7 spaced apart from each other, and a cross member 8 extending between the two structural elements 6 to connect them together.

[0014] The support structure 4 is configured to support the facilities of the floating offshore platform 2 and / or the upper deck of the floating offshore platform 2.

[0015] Each of the first structural element 6 and the second structural element 7 is, for example, a column. Each of the first structural element 6 and the second structural element 7 is preferably made of metal.

[0016] At least one or each of the first and second structural elements 6 defines, for example, a floater. Such a structural element has positive buoyancy.

[0017] The cross member 8 is a tubular structure. The cross member 8 is formed of a plurality of pipes 10 connected together. Each pipe 10 is preferably made of metal. The pipes 10 of the cross member 8 are preferably welded together. Each pipe 10 preferably extends along the axis A of the pipe.

[0018] The outer diameter of each pipe 10 of the cross member 8 is, for example, between 1 meter and 6 meters, particularly between 2 meters and 5 meters.

[0019] The cross member 8 is preferably submersible. "Submersible" means that the cross member 8 sinks partially or completely when the floating offshore platform 2 is operating offshore.

[0020] The support structure 4 includes a tank 12 for storing fluid, and the tank 12 is partitioned within at least two tubes 10 of the cross member 8. Thus, the tank 12 is "integrated" within the cross member 8. The fluid is, for example, a liquid or a gas, particularly a pressurized gas, such as pressurized air.

[0021] The pipes 10 that partition the tank 12 are connected together such that the individual volumes of the pipes 10 are connected to partition a single common volume that defines the tank 12. The pipes 10 that partition the tank 12 are connected together, for example, via groove-welded connections.

[0022] The two pipes 10, which are connected together and partition the tank 12, are connected to each other at a non-zero angle. The pipe axes A of the two pipes 10 define a non-zero angle between them.

[0023] The tank 12 is fluidly connected to a fluid component 14 supported by, for example, a support structure 4, the fluid component 14 being positioned, for example, on a first structural element 6 and / or a second structural element 7.

[0024] Each fluid component 14 is configured to supply fluid to the tank 12 and / or receive fluid from the tank.

[0025] Each fluid component 14 is, for example, a fluid circuit, pipe, pump, valve, pressure regulator, flow regulator, fluid storage tank, ballast, fluid inlet, or fluid outlet.

[0026] The tank 12 is partitioned inside the pipe 10, for example, by an internal partition wall 15 that extends along the pipe 10. Preferably, the internal partition wall 15 is distal to the connection of the pipe 10 to the first and second structural elements 6 and 7.

[0027] The horizontal members 8 include primary pipes 10, each primary pipe 10 having at least one end connected to a first structural element 6 or a second structural element 7. Each primary pipe 10 may have, for example, one end connected to the first structural element 6 and one end connected to the second structural element 7, or one end connected to one of the first and second structural elements 6, 7 and one end connected to another pipe 10 of the horizontal member 8.

[0028] The cross members 8 optionally include secondary pipes 10. The two ends of each secondary pipe 10 are connected to other pipes 10 of the cross members 8, and each of the pipes 10 is either a primary pipe 10 or another secondary pipe 10. Such secondary pipes 10 are also called “diagonal members”.

[0029] The horizontal members 8 are connected to the first and second structural elements 6 and 7 via connectors 16. Each connector 16 connects the end of the primary pipe 10 of the horizontal member 8 to one of the first and second structural elements 6 and 7.

[0030] The tank 12 is advantageously fluid-connected to the fluid component 14 via a connection 16 between the cross member 8 and the first and second structural elements 6 and 7.

[0031] Each connection 16 to the first structural element 6 is a bolted flange connection, and / or each connection 16 to the second structural element 7 is a bolted flange connection.

[0032] Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 1, each connection 16 with the first structural element 6 is a flange connection fastened with bolts, and each connection 16 with the second structural element 7 is a flange connection fastened with bolts.

[0033] In one modified form, each connection 16 with the first structural element 6 is a flanged connection fastened with bolts, and each connection 16 with the second structural element 7 is a welded connection.

[0034] In another variant, each connection 16 with the first structural element 6 is a welded connection, and each connection 16 with the second structural element 7 is a bolted flange connection.

[0035] The connection of the transverse members 8 to the first structural element 6 and / or the second structural element 7 via bolted flange connections 16 makes it possible to manufacture the support structure 4 as a separate component that is later assembled via bolted flange connections 16.

[0036] This design integrates the horizontal member 10 with the tank 12, which implies the presence of a fluid connection, thus facilitating manufacturing and maintenance.

[0037] The horizontal member 8 may have different arrangements of the pipes 10, various numbers of connections 16 with each of the first and second structural elements 6 and 7, and different arrangements of the tanks 12 within the pipes 10 of the horizontal member 8.

[0038] In some embodiments, the tank 12 is partitioned within at least one primary pipe 10 of the horizontal member 8. This allows for easy connection of the tank 12 to the fluid equipment 14 via connections of the end of the primary pipe 10 to one of the first structural element 6 and the second structural element 7.

[0039] The primary pipe 10 that demarcates the tank 12 has, for example, one end connected to a first structural element 6 and the other end connected to a second structural element 7, or one end connected to a first structural element 6 and the other end connected to another pipe 10, in particular another primary pipe 10 or secondary pipe 10.

[0040] In some embodiments, the crossbar 8 includes at least one primary pipe 10 in which the tank 12 is not partitioned. In particular, the crossbar 8 includes a primary pipe 10 having one end connected to a first structural element 6 and the other end connected to a second structural element 7, in which the tank 12 is not partitioned. This makes it possible to use such a primary pipe 10 as a pontoon for workers to move between the first structural element 6 and the second structural element 7 and walk inside the primary pipe 10.

[0041] In some embodiments, the tank 12 is defined within at least one secondary pipe 10 of the horizontal member 8. The tank 12 is partitioned, for example, within a single secondary pipe 10, or within two or more secondary pipes 10.

[0042] In some embodiments, the horizontal member 8 is connected to the first structural element 6 by one single connector 16 or two connectors 16, and / or the horizontal member 8 is connected to the second structural element 7 by one single connector 16 or two connectors 16. The horizontal member 8 is connected to the first and second structural elements 6 and 7, for example, via two, three, or four connectors 16.

[0043] In some embodiments, the horizontal member 8 includes two parallel and preferably horizontal primary pipes 10, each of which has one end connected to a first structural element 6 by a connector 16 and the other end connected to a second structural element 7 by a connector 16.

[0044] The horizontal members also include at least one secondary pipe 10, which connects both primary pipes 10. For example, at least one or each of the secondary pipes 10 extends between the two primary pipes 10 and has one end connected to one of the two primary pipes 10 and the other end connected to the other of the two primary pipes 10.

[0045] The two primary tubes 10 are positioned, for example, one above the other, thus defining the lower primary tube 10 and the upper primary tube 10.

[0046] Advantageously, the tank 12 is partitioned in at least one of the two primary pipes 10 and in at least one secondary pipe 10. For example, the tank 12 is partitioned in one of the two primary pipes 10 and in at least one secondary pipe 10, and the tank 12 is not partitioned in the other of the two primary pipes 10. The primary pipe 10 in which the tank 12 is not partitioned is preferably the upper primary pipe 10.

[0047] The horizontal member 8 includes, for example, two secondary pipes 10 extending between each of two primary pipes 10. At least one or each of the secondary pipes 10 extends diagonally in relation to the primary pipes 10, for example. It is advantageous that the distance between the ends of two secondary pipes 10 connected to one of the two primary pipes 10, in particular the lower primary pipe 10, is strictly shorter, for example, the distance between the ends of two secondary pipes 10 connected to the other primary pipe 10, in particular the upper primary pipe 10.

[0048] As illustrated in Figure 1, the horizontal member 8 preferably includes an upper and lower primary pipe 10, each having one end connected to a first structural element 6 via a connector 16 and one end connected to a second structural element 7 via a connector 16, and two secondary pipes 10, each extending between the two primary pipes 10.

[0049] Tank 12 is partitioned within the lower primary pipe 10, but not within the upper primary pipe 10. Tank 12 is also partitioned within the two secondary pipes 10.

[0050] The upper primary pipe 10 can be used as a pontoon, avoiding the need for workers to descend to the lower primary pipe 10. In one variant configuration, the tank 12 is partitioned within the upper primary pipe 10 but not within the lower primary pipe 10.

[0051] Tank 12 is connected to the first structural element 6, for example, via a connection 16 between the upper primary pipe 10 and the first structural element 6 and / or via a connection 16 between the lower primary pipe 10 and the first structural element 6, and / or via a connection 16 between the upper primary pipe 10 and the second structural element 7 and / or via a connection 16 between the lower primary pipe 10 and the second structural element 7.

[0052] As illustrated in Figure 1, the tank 12 is connected to the first structural element 6, for example, via a connection 16 between the upper primary pipe 10 and the first structural element 6, and / or to the second structural element 7, via a connection 16 between the upper primary pipe 10 and the second structural element 7.

[0053] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the upper end of the secondary pipe 10 is spaced apart and therefore closer to the first structural element 6 and the second structural element 7, thus limiting the length of pipe required to create the fluid connection.

[0054] In one modified form, as illustrated in Figure 2, the tank 12 is fluidly connected to, for example, the first and second structural elements 6 and 7 via their connection 16 to the first lower primary pipe 10, and there is no fluid connection between the tank 12 and the first and second structural elements 6 and 7 via their connection to the upper primary pipe 10.

[0055] In one modified form, as illustrated in Figure 3, the tank 12 is fluidly connected to the first structural element 6 via a connection to a lower primary pipe 10, without fluid connection between the tank 12 and the first structural element 6 via a connection to an upper primary pipe 10 16, and is fluidly connected to the second structural element 7 via a connection to an upper primary pipe 10, without fluid connection between the tank 12 and the second structural element 7 via a connection to a lower primary pipe 10.

[0056] In one modified form, as illustrated in Figure 4, the tank 12 is fluidly connected to the first structural element 6 via a connection to an upper primary pipe 10, without fluid connection between the tank 12 and the first structural element 6 via a connection to a lower primary pipe 10, and is fluidly connected to the second structural element 7 via a connection to a lower primary pipe 10, without fluid connection between the tank 12 and the second structural element 7 via a connection to an upper primary pipe 10.

[0057] The horizontal member 8 may represent a different shape.

[0058] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 5, the crossbar 8 differs from the crossbar 8 in Figures 1-4 in that it includes a single secondary pipe 10 that extends diagonally between two primary pipes 10. The tank 12 is partitioned within at least one of the secondary pipes 10 and primary pipes 10, for example, only one of the two primary pipes 10, preferably the lower primary pipe 10.

[0059] The secondary pipe 10 extends from the end of the lower primary pipe 10 connected to the first structural element 6 to the end of the upper primary pipe 10 connected to the second structural element 7.

[0060] The tank 12 is fluidly connected to the fluid component 14, for example, via a lower connection 16 to the first structural element 6 and via an upper connection 16 to the second structural element 7.

[0061] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 6, the horizontal member 8 differs from those in Figures 1-4 in that the horizontal member 8 includes a first primary pipe 10 that extends between the first and second structural elements 6 and 7.

[0062] The horizontal member 8 further includes a second primary pipe 10 extending between the first primary pipe 10 and the first structural element 6, and / or a third primary pipe 10 extending between the first primary pipe 10 and the second structural element 7.

[0063] The horizontal members 8 are connected to the first and second structural elements 6 and 7 via three or four connectors 16.

[0064] The tank 12 is partitioned within, for example, two or three of the first primary pipe 10, the second primary pipe 10, and the third primary pipe 10. The tank 12 is partitioned within, for example, the first primary pipe 10 and within the second primary pipe 10 and / or the third primary pipe 10.

[0065] Advantageously, at least one pipe 10, in which the tank 12 is partitioned, is configured to remain submerged at all times when the floating offshore platform 2 is operational.

[0066] Advantageously, at least one flange connection 16 provided at one end of the pipe 10 partitioning the tank 12 is configured to be submerged at all times when the floating offshore platform 2 is operational.

[0067] Each connection 16 is a welded connection or a bolted flange connection 16. Each connection 16 to the first structural element 6 is a bolted flange connection, and / or each connection to the second structural element 7 is a bolted flange connection. Preferably, each connection 16 between the cross member 8 and the first and second structural elements 6 and 7 is a bolted flange connection 16.

[0068] Examples of bolted flange connections 16 are illustrated in Figures 7-11, where corresponding or similar elements are designated by the same reference number. In this regard, while reference number 6 of the first structural member 6 in Figures 1-6 is used in Figures 7-11, it should be noted that the following considerations are applicable to either the first structural member 6 or the second structural member 7.

[0069] As illustrated in Figure 7, the bolted flange connection 16 includes a first flange 20 provided on the pipe 10 and a second flange 22 provided on the structural element 6, both of which are bolted together.

[0070] The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 are annular. The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 extend around the central axis A of the bolted flange connection 16. The first flange 20 has a front surface 20A, and the second flange 22 has a front surface 22A. The front surface 20A of the first flange 20 faces the front surface 22A of the second flange 22.

[0071] The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 abut each other axially and are bolted together via a plurality of bolts 24.

[0072] The bolts 24 are distributed circumferentially on the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 with respect to the central axis A. The bolts 24 are distributed along one or more virtual circles with respect to the central axis A.

[0073] In Figure 7, only two bolts 24 placed opposite each other are visible. In practice, a bolted flange connection 16 preferably includes more than two bolts 24. The number of bolts 24 is selected, for example, depending on the diameters of the first and second flanges 20, 22.

[0074] The first flange 20 is provided at the end 28 of the pipe 10. The second flange 22 is provided, for example, at the connecting opening 30 of the structural member 6. The end 28 of the pipe 10 and the connecting opening 30 are preferably coaxial and center on the central axis A of the bolted flange connection 16. The end 28 of the pipe 10 and the connecting opening 30 preferably have a circular cross-section and the same diameter.

[0075] The bolts 24 of the bolted flange connection 16 extend through the flanges of the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 to secure the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 together, and each bolt 24 is engaged with, for example, a corresponding nut 26.

[0076] The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 extend radially outward from the pipe 10 and the connecting opening 30, or radially inward from the pipe 10 and the connecting opening 30, as illustrated in Figure 7, for example.

[0077] The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 are, for example, in direct contact with each other, particularly in metal-to-metal contact. More specifically, the front surface 20A of the first flange 20 and the front surface 22A of the second flange 22 are in direct contact with each other. In this way, a reliable mechanical connection between the pipe 10 and the structural element 6 via the bolted flange connection 16 is ensured.

[0078] The bolted flange connection 16 includes a sealing assembly 32 configured to watertightly seal the bolted flange connection 16.

[0079] The sealing assembly 32 seals the joint between the pipe 10 and the structural element 6.

[0080] The sealing assembly 32 is configured to prevent liquid and / or gas from flowing into and / or out of the support structure 4 through the bolted flange connection 16.

[0081] The sealing assembly 32 is advantageously configured to prevent water from flowing into the support structure 4 via the bolted flange connection 16, and / or to prevent liquids and / or gases stored in the tank 12, particularly pressurized gases stored in the tank 12, from flowing out of the support structure 4 via the bolted flange connection 16.

[0082] The sealing assembly 32 includes one or more sealing members, such as one or more annular seals, one or more sealing washers, and / or one or more sealing sleeves.

[0083] The sealing assembly 32 includes, for example, an annular seal 34 that is inserted between a first flange 20 and a second flange 22 and is partially housed in a first groove 36 formed in the first flange 20 and partially housed in a second groove 38 formed in the second flange 22, or is fully housed in the first groove 36 formed in the first flange 20 and in contact with the second flange 10, or is fully housed in the second groove 38 formed in the second flange 22 and in contact with the first flange 20.

[0084] Each annular seal 34 is made of, for example, natural or synthetic rubber or elastomer.

[0085] As illustrated in Figure 7, the sealing assembly 32 includes at least one annular seal 34, each annular seal 34 of the sealing assembly 32 partially housed in a first groove 36 formed in the first flange 20 and partially housed in a second groove 38 formed in the second flange 22.

[0086] The sealing assembly 32 is preferably configured such that the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 are in contact with each other's respective front surfaces 20A and 22A. Each annular seal 34 housed in the first groove 36 and / or the second groove 38 allows contact between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 while efficiently sealing.

[0087] Preferably, the sealing assembly 32 is configured such that each annular seal 34 is compressed between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22.

[0088] In particular, the size and shape of each annular seal 34, as well as the size and shape of each groove (first groove 36 and / or second groove 38) that accommodates the annular seal 20, are configured to compress the annular seal 34 between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22.

[0089] Each annular seal 34, for example, in its free state, i.e., before compression between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22, has a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

[0090] The sealing assembly 32 includes, for example, two annular seals 34 arranged concentrically around a central axis A.

[0091] The sealing assembly 32 includes, for example, one annular seal 34 positioned radially outward in relation to the bolt 24 and / or one annular seal 34 positioned radially inward in relation to the bolt 24.

[0092] The cross-section of the groove formed in the front surface 20A of the first flange 20 or in the front surface 22A of the second flange 22 to accommodate the annular seal 34, at least partially or completely, may exhibit various cross-sectional shapes, such as a semicircular cross-sectional shape, a square cross-sectional shape, a rectangular cross-sectional shape, or a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

[0093] In one embodiment, the pipe 10 partitions the tank 12.

[0094] In such a case, the pipe 10 advantageously includes a bulkhead 15 extending along the pipe 10 to partition the tank 12 within a section of the pipe 10, the bulkhead 15 being positioned along the pipe 10 at a certain distance from the first flange 20. The pipe 10 includes a connecting section 42 extending between the end 28 and the bulkhead 15 and a tank section 44 extending from the bulkhead 15 on the opposite side of the end 28.

[0095] By providing a partition wall 15 at a certain distance from the end 28 of the pipe 10 connected to the structural element 6 by a bolted flange connection 16, the reliability of the bolted flange connection 16, which is stored inside the storage tank 30 and not exposed to fluid pressure, is improved.

[0096] The support structure 4 advantageously includes a connecting pipe 46 for fluidly connecting the tank 12 to the fluid component 14 (not shown in Figure 7).

[0097] The tank 12 is connected to the fluid component 14 via a flange connection 16 fastened with bolts.

[0098] As illustrated in Figure 7, the connecting pipe 46 extends from the bulkhead 15 toward the structural element 6 to connect the tank 12 to the fluid component 14.

[0099] The connecting pipe 46 is connected to the fluid component 14 by, for example, a bolted connection, a welded connection, or any other preferred type of connection.

[0100] The bolted flange connection 16 is not limited to the embodiments and variations discussed in relation to Figure 7.

[0101] As discussed below in relation to Figures 8-11, other embodiments and variations may also be considered.

[0102] In the bolted flange connection 16 shown in Figure 7, the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 protrude radially outward from the connecting opening 30 of the pipe 10 and the structural element 6.

[0103] The bolted flange connection 16 in Figure 8 differs from that in Figure 7 in that the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 protrude radially inward from the connecting opening 30 of the pipe 10 and the structural element 6. This configuration offers the advantage that the bolts 24 are positioned inside the bolted flange connection 16 and are therefore protected from external elements, namely water.

[0104] The arrangement of the bolts 24 in the bolted flange connection 16 may differ from that of the bolted flange connection 16 in Figure 7.

[0105] The bolts 24 of the bolted flange connection 16 are arranged in one row of bolts 24 extending along a virtual circle centered on the central axis A, or in multiple rows of bolts 24, each row extending along a virtual circle centered on the central axis A, and the rows being arranged concentrically with respect to the central axis A.

[0106] The bolted flange connection 16 in Figure 8 differs from that in Figure 7 in that the bolted flange connection 16 includes two rows of bolts 24 that extend concentrically around the central axis A.

[0107] The sealing assembly 32 of the bolted flange connection 16 of the bolted flange in Figure 7 includes one or more annular seals 34, each annular seal 34 housed in a first groove 36 and a second groove 38.

[0108] Alternatively or optionally, as illustrated in Figure 8, a bolted flange connection 16 includes a sealing washer 48 inserted between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 such that the first flange 20 and the second flange 22 support each other via the sealing washer 48 without contacting each other.

[0109] At least when compressed between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22, the sealing washer 48 preferably takes on a flat shape and extends radially in relation to the central axis A. The bolts 14 of the bolted flange connection 16 extend through the sealing washer 48, for example, through holes provided in the sealing washer 48.

[0110] The sealing washer 48 is made of, for example, metal, preferably a corrosion-resistant metal, in particular stainless steel or bronze, such as copper and even bronze and / or aluminum containing tin and zinc.

[0111] Alternatively or optionally, as illustrated in Figure 8, the sealing assembly 32 includes a sealing sleeve 50 positioned around a bolted flange connection 16.

[0112] The sealing sleeve 50 extends over the outer surface of the pipe 10 and the outer surface of the structural member 6, while covering the joint between the pipe 10 and the structural member 6.

[0113] The sealing sleeve 50 is made of, for example, a flexible material. The sealing sleeve 50 made of a flexible material is adaptable to a bolted flange connection 16. The sealing sleeve 50 is wrapped around, for example, the bolted flange connection 16.

[0114] The sealing sleeve 50, for example, if it consists of one or more layers, each layer may be made of rubber or a composite material including a base material and reinforcing fibers embedded within the base material.

[0115] The sealing sleeve 50 is obtained, for example, by wrapping TRENTON's Guard-Wrap® product around a bolted flange connection 16. Guard-Wrap® includes a spunbonded polyester mat saturated with microcrystalline wax, which is laminated onto a polyester film coated with microcrystalline wax.

[0116] Alternatively or optionally, as illustrated in Figure 9, the sealing assembly 32 includes an annular seal 34 that is fully housed in a groove provided in one of the first flanges 20 to create a sealing contact with the second flange 22, and / or an annular seal 34 that is fully housed in a groove provided in the second flange 22 to create a sealing contact with the first flange 20.

[0117] In particular, the sealing assembly 32 includes an annular seal 34 that is completely housed in a second groove 38 formed within the front surface 22A of the second flange 22 and makes sealing contact with the front surface 20A of the first flange 20A when the bolts 24 of the bolted flange connection 16 are tightened.

[0118] Alternatively or optionally, as illustrated in Figure 10, the sealing assembly 32 includes an annular projection 54 formed on one of the first flange 20 and the second flange 22, the annular projection 54 engaging in an annular groove 56 formed in the other of the first flange 20 and the second flange 22, and optionally at least one annular seal 34 is housed in the annular groove 56 and compressed by the annular projection 54.

[0119] In particular, two annular seals 34 are housed, for example, in an annular groove 56, and each annular seal 34 is compressed into its respective sealing seat 58 by an annular projection 54, and the two sealing seats 58 are preferably inclined in relation to the central axis A and / or in relation to each other.

[0120] The sealing assembly 32 includes, for example, an annular projection 54 provided on the second flange 22 and an annular groove 56 provided on the first flange 20, where two annular seals 34 are housed in the annular groove 56 and compressed within the annular groove 56 against their respective sealing seats 58 which are inclined relative to and inclined with respect to the central axis A.

[0121] Each sealing seat portion 58 is, for example, frustoconical in shape, with the central axis A as the center, one sealing seat portion 58 facing radially outward, and the other sealing seat portion 58 facing radially inward.

[0122] The semiconical angle of each sealing seat 58 is, for example, 30° to 60°, and is substantially equal to 45°.

[0123] Alternatively or optionally, as illustrated in Figure 11, the sealing assembly 32 includes, for example, an annular seal 34 that is partially or completely housed in a groove formed within the front surfaces 20A, 22A of one of the first flange 20 and the second flange 22, the groove being shaped such that the annular seal 34 is secured within the groove.

[0124] The groove is formed, for example, such that the opening of the groove is narrower than the bottom of the groove.

[0125] The groove, for example, has a trapezoidal cross-section, where two parallel sides of the trapezoidal cross-section define the bottom and opening of the first groove, and the converging sides of the trapezoidal cross-section define the side surface of the first groove.

[0126] As illustrated in Figure 11, the sealing assembly 32 includes, for example, an annular seal 34 which is completely housed in a first groove 36 formed within the front surface 20A of the first flange 20, which is in sealing contact with the front surface 22A of the second flange 22.

[0127] The first groove 38 has a trapezoidal cross-section, with two parallel sides of the trapezoidal cross-section defining the bottom 38 and the opening of the first groove, and the converging sides of the trapezoidal cross-section defining the side surface of the first groove 38.

[0128] Optionally, sealing of bolted flange connections 16 is achieved through the application of a sealing coating (not shown) such as polyester or epoxy resin, preferably a resin, paint, in the form of bulk, woven, or nonwoven fabric, optionally reinforced with glass and / or carbon fiber.

[0129] The sealing coating is applied, for example, to the first flange 20, the second flange 22, the joint between the pipe 10 and the structural element 6, and / or to the bolts 24.

[0130] As illustrated in Figure 11, the support structure 4 additionally or optionally includes a connecting pipe 46 for fluid connection of the tank 12 and a sealing arrangement 60 for creating a seal between the first flange 20 and the second flange 22.

[0131] The sealing arrangement 60 includes, for example, a sealing ring 62 wedge-fastened between the outer surface 46A of the connecting pipe 46 and the sealing seat 64 of one of the flanges, the first flange 20 and the second flange 22.

[0132] The sealing ring 62 includes, for example, a cylindrical inner surface 66 that is in contact with the outer surface of the connecting pipe 46, and / or a frustoconical outer surface 68 that is in contact with the sealing seat 64.

[0133] As illustrated in Figure 11, the connecting pipe 46 is attached to the second flange 22, the sealing arrangement 60 is provided between the connecting pipe 46 and the first flange 20, and the sealing ring 62 is fitted onto the connecting pipe 46 and wedge-fastened between the connecting pipe 46 and the first flange 20.

[0134] As illustrated in Figures 1-6, the fluid components 14 of the floating offshore platform 2 define, for example, an attitude control system 70 configured to control the attitude of the floating offshore platform 2.

[0135] The attitude control system 70 includes, for example, a ballast 72 located within a second structural element 7 defining the floater, having a water opening 74 that allows water to flow into or out of the ballast 72 depending on the amount of air contained within the ballast 72, and a fluid circuit 76 for controlling the amount of air contained within the ballast 72.

[0136] The tank 12 defines a pressurized air storage area for storing air to be supplied to the ballast 72 in order to increase the buoyancy of the second structural element 7, which is equipped with ballast 72, or for storing air drawn from the ballast 72 in order to decrease the buoyancy of the second structural element 7 equipped with ballast 72.

[0137] The fluid circuit 76 includes, for example, an inlet fluid line 78 configured to supply pressurized air to the tank 12.

[0138] The inlet fluid line 78 includes, for example, a pump 80 fluid-connected to the tank 12 to supply pressurized air to the tank 12.

[0139] The inlet fluid line 78 includes, for example, one or more inlet valves 82 arranged to control the circulation of air between the pump 80 and the tank 12.

[0140] The fluid circuit 76 includes, for example, a transfer line 84 configured to transfer air from the tank 12 to the ballast 62. The transfer fluid line 84 includes, for example, one or more transfer valves 86 for controlling the transfer of air from the tank 12 to the ballast 72.

[0141] During operation, if it is necessary to reduce the buoyancy of the second structural element 7, air is released from the ballast 72, thereby allowing water to enter the ballast 72 through the water opening 74. If it is necessary to increase the buoyancy of the second structural element 7, the fluid circuit 76 is controlled to supply air from the tank 12 to the ballast 72, thereby pushing the water contained within the ballast 72 out of the ballast 72 through the water opening 74. If it is necessary to fill the tank 12, the fluid circuit 66 is controlled to supply air to the tank 12 by operating the pump 80.

[0142] As illustrated in Figures 1-6, the inlet fluid line 78 is located in the first structural element 6, and the transfer fluid line 84 is located in the second structural element 7.

[0143] The first and second structural elements 6 and 7, connected by a horizontal member 8, are advantageously two columns of the floating offshore platform 2.

[0144] In some embodiments, the floating offshore platform 2 includes three columns, each column being connected to each of the other two columns by a transverse member 8.

[0145] In some embodiments, the floating offshore platform 2 includes two pairs of columns, with each pair of columns connected by a transverse member 8.

[0146] In some embodiments, the floating offshore platform 2 includes one central column and two, three, or more peripheral columns arranged circumferentially around the central column, with each peripheral column connected to the central floater by its respective crossbar 8.

[0147] In such a case, the attitude control system 60 advantageously includes a single pump 80 fluidly coupled to the tank 12, which is provided in the central column and integrated within each cross member 8, in order to supply pressurized air to the tank 12.

[0148] This limits the number of fluid components, thus facilitating the manufacture, inspection, and maintenance of the floating offshore platform 2.

[0149] The floating offshore platform 2 is preferably a floating offshore platform 2 of which a wind turbine assembly 90 including a wind turbine 92 is supported by a first structural element 6 of the floating offshore platform 2. The bottom end of the wind turbine mast 94 is shown in Figures 1-6.

[0150] As illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, each partition wall 15 that divides the tank 12 is preferably non-planar.

[0151] Each partition wall 15 that divides the tank 12 is, for example, dish-shaped.

[0152] The bulkhead 15 is dish-shaped, in particular, such that the surface of the bulkhead 15 facing the inside of the tank 12 is concave.

[0153] Alternatively, the bulkhead 15 is dish-shaped such that the surface of the bulkhead 15 facing the inside of the tank 12 is convex.

[0154] The partition wall 15 is, for example, a hemispherical disk, a trispherical disk, an elliptical disk, a conical disk, or a convex disk.

[0155] The dish-shaped partition 15 can provide the tank 12 with improved pressure resistance against internal and / or external pressure.

[0156] This invention makes it possible to propose a floating offshore platform, which is a compact and lightweight offshore structure with a simple and robust design, and is easy to install, operate, and maintain.

[0157] The tank 12, partitioned within at least two pipes 10 of the horizontal member 8, makes it possible to provide an integrated tank inside the horizontal member, which facilitates installation, inspection, and maintenance.

[0158] The tank 12 partitioned within at least two pipes 10 of the horizontal member 8 makes it possible to provide a tank 12 with a higher storage capacity. A tank 12 with a higher storage capacity makes it possible to store the same amount of pressurized gas as a tank 12 with a lower storage capacity at a lower storage pressure. Thus, it becomes possible to use a more economical and / or reliable fluid component 14. In particular, this makes it possible to use a lower-power pump to fill the tank 12.

[0159] The tank 12, partitioned within at least two pipes 10, increases the possibility of fluid connection between the tank 12 on one hand and between the first and second structural members 6 and 7 on the other.

[0160] A highly reliable support structure is provided by providing at least three connections 16 between the horizontal member 8 and the first and second structural elements 6 and 7.

[0161] The support structure 4 is provided with a prefabricated structure by providing one or more bolted flange connections 16 between the transverse member 8 and the first structural element 6 and / or between the transverse member 8 and the second structural element 7, thus making it easy and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0162] By providing sealing assemblies to the bolted flange connections 16, the ingress of fluid into the support structure 4 and / or leakage of fluid from the support structure 4 is prevented, especially when a tank 12 integrated with the support structure 4 is provided.

[0163] For example, it is possible to keep no part of the tank 12 in the primary pipe 10 in order to allow workers to inspect the support structure 4 without the need to empty the tank, or to use the primary pipe as a pontoon for walking from one of the first and second structural elements 6, 7 to the other.

[0164] The present invention is suitable for use with all types of floating offshore platforms, and in particular for floating offshore platforms for wind turbines. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0165] 2. Floating offshore platform 4 Support structure 6. First structural element 7. Second structural element 8 Crosspiece 10 tubes 12 tanks 16 bolted flange connection

Claims

1. A floating offshore platform (2) including a support structure (4), wherein the support structure (4) A transverse member (8) configured to extend between a first structural element (6) and a second structural element (7) of a support structure (4), wherein the transverse member (8) is formed of a plurality of connected tubes (10), and the transverse member (8) includes a tank (12) for storing fluid partitioned inside at least two of the tubes (10) of the transverse member (8), wherein the at least two tubes are connected such that the individual internal volumes of the at least two tubes (10) are in a fluid-connected state, The invention includes at least three connections (16), each of which is configured to mechanically connect the end of one tube (10) of a horizontal member (8) to one of the first structural element (6) and the second structural element (7), A floating offshore platform (2), wherein each connection (16) to a first structural element (6) is a bolted flange connection (16), and / or each connection (16) to a second structural element (7) is a bolted flange connection (16).

2. The floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 1, wherein the horizontal members (8) include one or more primary pipes (10), each primary pipe having one end to be connected to a first structural element (6) and / or one end to be connected to a second structural element (7).

3. The floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 2, wherein the tank (12) is partitioned within at least one primary pipe (10).

4. The floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the horizontal members (8) include at least one primary pipe (10) in which a tank (12) is not partitioned internally.

5. A floating offshore platform (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the horizontal member (8) includes two primary pipes (10) arranged vertically relative to each other, and each of the two primary pipes (10) has one end connected to a first structural element and one end connected to a second structural element.

6. A floating offshore platform (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the horizontal member (8) includes at least one secondary pipe (10), and the two ends of each secondary pipe (10) are connected to other pipes (10) of the horizontal member (8).

7. The floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 6, wherein the horizontal member (8) includes at least one secondary pipe (10) having ends connected to two primary pipes (10).

8. The floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the tank (12) is partitioned within at least one secondary pipe (10).

9. A floating offshore platform (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a tank (12) is fluidly connected to a first structural element (6) via a connection (16) that connects a horizontal member (8) to a first structural element (6), and / or a tank (12) is fluidly connected to a second structural element (7) via a connection (16) that connects a horizontal member (8) to a second structural element (7).

10. A floating offshore platform (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the connection (16) includes an upper first connection (16) and a lower first connection (16) that connect the horizontal members to the first structural element (6).

11. A floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 10, wherein a tank (12) is fluidly connected to a first structural element (16) via an upper first connection (16) and / or a lower first connection (16).

12. A floating offshore platform (2), wherein the connection (16) includes an upper second connection (16) and a lower second connection (16) that connect the horizontal members (8) to the second structural element (7).

13. The floating offshore platform (2) according to claim 12, wherein the tank (12) is fluidly connected to the second structural element (7) via an upper second connection (16) and / or a lower second connection (16).

14. A floating offshore platform (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each bolted flange connection (16) comprises a sealing assembly for sealing the bolted flange connection (16).

15. A wind turbine assembly comprising a floating offshore platform (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and a wind turbine supported by the floating offshore platform (2).

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