Floating offshore structures

Abstract

The present application relates to a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), in particular a floating offshore wind turbine (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), comprising at least one floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) with at least one floating body (106, 206, 306, 506, 606) and an offshore structure (1 and at least one anchoring mechanism (108, 208, 508) configured to fix the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) to the underwater ground (116, 216, 316, 516, 616) in an anchoring state of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), wherein the anchoring mechanism (108, 208, 508) is The present invention relates to a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) comprising at least one anchor connection (109, 209, 509) extending between the car (110, 210, 510) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), and at least one attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) configured to change a length of said anchor connection (109, 209, 509) between the anchor (110, 210, 510) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) in an anchored state based on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a floating offshore structure, in particular a floating offshore wind turbine, comprising at least one floating foundation with at least one floating body and at least one anchoring arrangement (German: Verankerungsanordnung, English: anchoring arrangement) configured to fix the offshore structure to an underwater ground in an anchored state of the offshore structure, the anchoring arrangement comprising at least one anchor connection (German: Ankerverbindung, English: anchor connection) extending between the anchor and the floating foundation. Furthermore, the present application relates to an offshore system, a method and an offshore set. [Background technology]

[0002] To provide electrical energy from so-called renewable energy sources, wind energy systems and wind farms, respectively, having at least one wind turbine, are increasingly being used, which are specifically configured to convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy.

[0003] To increase the energy production of such systems, wind power plants are increasingly being located at locations where winds are likely to be strong, in particular offshore locations which are typically characterized by relatively uninterrupted wind conditions and high average wind speeds, and so so-called offshore wind energy systems and offshore wind farms, respectively, are increasingly being installed.

[0004] Typically, an offshore wind farm comprises a number of offshore structures, such as a number of offshore wind turbines, and at least one offshore substation, by means of which the offshore wind farm is electrically connected, for example, to an onshore substation or to a further offshore substation and an offshore converter station, respectively.

[0005] Furthermore, onshore substations can be connected to the public power grid. Power cables are laid in the form of submarine cables to transmit electrical energy between two offshore structures or between an offshore structure and an onshore structure.

[0006] It has been common practice to anchor not only offshore wind turbines and offshore substations, but also other offshore structures such as platforms for gas or oil exploration, by underwater foundations, specifically by foundation structures on the seabed (e.g., monopiles, tripods, tripiles or jacket foundations). However, in order to install offshore structures, specifically offshore wind power plants, in areas with large water depths, e.g., greater than 150 meters, there is an increasing interest in installing floating offshore structures, e.g., floating offshore wind turbines.

[0007] A floating offshore structure or floating offshore structure comprises at least one floating foundation with at least one floating body. Devices such as platforms, substations, wind power generation devices, etc. can be installed on the floating foundation.

[0008] For (permanent) stationary operation of the offshore structure, the offshore structure is anchored to an underwater ground (usually the seabed) by at least one anchoring mechanism configured to anchor the offshore structure to the underwater ground in the anchored state of the offshore wind turbine, whereby the anchoring mechanism comprises at least one anchor connection extending between an anchor at least partially buried in the underwater ground and the floating foundation.

[0009] The floating design of such offshore structures allows them to move due to wind and / or waves. In particular, floating offshore structures may be subject to significant (periodic) tilting movements, in particular in the predominant wind and / or wave directions. In order to prevent damage to offshore equipment, in particular located on floating foundations, the prior art involves careful design of floating foundations, in particular the placement of offshore structures at relatively deep vertical positions during installation.

[0010] In particular, if the offshore structure is placed at a relatively deep vertical position during installation, wind speeds generally increase at higher altitudes, which reduces the electricity production of the offshore wind turbine, particularly at low wind speeds.

[0011] Furthermore, even moderate wind speeds and / or moderate wave heights can cause pitching or rolling motions that can make landing an aircraft or vessel on an offshore structure at the very least very difficult, and may even make landing impossible.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present application to provide an offshore structure in which the drawbacks of the prior art are at least alleviated, in particular in which landing on the offshore structure is possible even under unfavorable weather conditions. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The problem is solved according to a first aspect of the present application by a floating offshore structure, in particular a floating offshore wind turbine, as set forth in claim 1. The offshore structure comprises at least one floating foundation comprising at least one floating body. The offshore structure comprises at least one anchoring mechanism configured to fix the offshore structure to an underwater ground in an anchored state of the offshore structure. The anchoring mechanism comprises at least one anchor connection extending between the anchor and the floating foundation. The offshore structure comprises at least one attitude stabilization device (German: Lagestabilisierungseinrichtung, English: attitude stabilization device) configured to change the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation in the anchored state based on at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure and at least one attitude setpoint parameter.

[0014] Unlike the prior art, the present application provides a floating offshore structure in which the drawbacks of the prior art are at least alleviated by providing an attitude stabilization device that stabilizes the position of the floating offshore structure by changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation. Specifically, landing on the offshore structure can be at least facilitated by changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation, specifically by shortening or lengthening said length at least during the landing process. It has been determined that changing the length can at least reduce the tilting or swaying motion of the offshore structure.

[0015] In a preferred floating offshore wind turbine, it is also possible to increase the electricity production and energy production, respectively, by varying the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation.

[0016] The offshore structure according to the present application is a floating offshore structure such as an offshore wind turbine, an offshore substation, an offshore platform for gas or oil exploration, etc. The offshore structure comprises at least one floating foundation, in particular on which offshore equipment can be arranged.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the offshore structure is an offshore wind turbine, on at least one foundation of which is arranged a wind power generating device, in particular an offshore device, including a tower, a nacelle, a rotor, a generator, etc.

[0018] At least one floating foundation comprises at least one floating body. A floating body or floating body is specifically an object that is independently buoyant due to the buoyancy of a 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 essentially form a floating body.

[0019] The floating foundation may preferably be a so-called barge foundation, semi-submersible foundation, spar foundation and / or tension-tethered platform (TLP) foundation, it being understood that other types of floating foundation may be provided in other variations of the present application.

[0020] According to the present application, the floating foundation is fixed to and anchored to the underwater ground by at least one anchoring mechanism, and specifically, multiple (e.g., three or four) anchoring mechanisms can be provided for fixing.

[0021] The anchoring mechanism according to the present application comprises an anchor connection, in particular in the form of an anchor rope or anchor chain, one end of which is attached to the foundation and the other end of which is attached to at least one anchor (e.g., a weight anchor, a torpedo anchor, etc.), which can be at least partially buried in the underwater ground.

[0022] The situation where the foundation, and therefore the offshore structure, is fixed to the underwater ground by at least one anchoring mechanism is specifically referred to herein as an anchoring state of the foundation and the offshore wind turbine, respectively.

[0023] According to the present application, it has been confirmed that at least critical locations of the offshore structure, where damage to the offshore structure is imminent, can be at least mitigated if the anchoring condition, i.e. the intended operation of the offshore structure, provides the possibility of changing the length of the anchor connection of the anchoring mechanism: in particular, by shortening the length (but also possibly by lengthening), the tilting or swaying movements of the offshore structure are at least mitigated compared to the case of a larger length (and a smaller length, respectively).

[0024] To change the length, it is proposed according to the present application to provide an attitude stabilization device, which can be arranged at least partially in and / or on the floating foundation. In a variant of the present application, this device can also be arranged at least partially on an offshore installation, such as the tower of an offshore wind turbine.

[0025] According to the present application, the at least one attitude stabilization device is configured to change the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation (specifically, the point where the anchor connection reaches the foundation) in the anchoring state based on at least one (providable) attitude parameter of the offshore structure and at least one (predefined) attitude setpoint parameter.

[0026] The attitude parameters (values) of the offshore structure are specifically attitude parameters that directly and indirectly describe the (current and / or predicted future) vertical and / or horizontal position of the offshore structure. At least one attitude parameter specifically specifies the vertical and / or horizontal position of the offshore structure to be set.

[0027] In particular, two or more attitude parameters and / or two or more attitude setpoint parameters (corresponding to the attitude parameters) may be provided. Preferably, a plurality of different attitude parameters, e.g. in the form of attitude parameter data sets, and a corresponding plurality of (predefined) attitude setpoint parameters, e.g. in the form of corresponding attitude setpoint parameter data sets, may be provided.

[0028] Preferably, the attitude stabilization device may comprise at least one control module configured to control a change in the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation based on at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure and at least one attitude setpoint parameter. For example, the control module may comprise at least one suitable controller.

[0029] This means in particular that the length is changed so that the (current and / or predicted future) attitude parameters correspond (essentially) to the attitude setpoint parameters, minimizing any possible differences.

[0030] If the attitude setpoint parameter is at the limit of an unacceptable attitude range or an acceptable attitude range, a variant of the present application can provide that the length is changed so that the (current and / or predicted future) attitude parameter is at least within the acceptable attitude range, i.e., not above (or below) the attitude setpoint (limit) parameter.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure of the present application, the attitude stabilization device may comprise at least one winch device connected to the anchor connection. The winch device may be configured to change the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation. Specifically, the winch device comprises a substantially cylindrical rotatable drum.

[0032] In this case, coupled (Gekoppelt) specifically means that at least one anchor connection in the form of an anchor rope or anchor chain can be wound on and unwound from the drum (specifically between a minimum and a maximum length), one end of which can be securely attached to the drum or another attachment point of the winch device.

[0033] Preferably, the winch device may comprise at least one controllable motorized drive, in particular an electric motor, which may be supplied with electrical energy from the offshore structure, and the drive may in particular be controlled by the control module such that its length is varied such that at least one (current and / or predicted future) attitude parameter (substantially) corresponds to at least one attitude setpoint parameter or at least lies within an acceptable attitude range.

[0034] According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, the winch device may comprise at least one parking brake. The parking brake may be releasable (and lockable after the change) to change the length of the anchor connection. When a change in the length of the anchor connection is made, for example, the control module may control the parking brake so that it is released. The length of the anchor connection can then be changed as described, in particular by the drive. The parking brake can then be (re)locked automatically or by new control, for example by the control module. This may reduce the load on the drive.

[0035] At least one attitude parameter can be provided by an apparatus not provided by the offshore structure, and the attitude stabilization device can be provided with the at least one attitude detection device configured to detect at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure. Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, the offshore structure can be provided with at least one attitude detection device configured to detect at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure. In other words, in this embodiment, the offshore structure, specifically the actual attitude parameter of the offshore structure, can be determined by the attitude detection device itself. In particular, the control of at least one drive of a winch device or another device (e.g., a ballast medium transport mechanism, a lifting device) can be performed according to the difference between the detected attitude parameter, the actual attitude parameter, and a (predetermined) attitude setpoint parameter.

[0036] The at least one attitude parameter may specifically be at least one attitude angle (also referred to as Euler angle) of the offshore structure. For example, the at least one attitude parameter may be a yaw angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure and a vertical axis (also referred to as z-axis)), a roll angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure and a longitudinal axis (also referred to as x-axis)), and / or a pitch angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure and a longitudinal axis (also referred to as y-axis)).

[0037] Preferably, the attitude detection device may be a tilt angle detection device configured to detect the tilt angle of the offshore structure. Specifically, the tilt angle is the (maximum) angle with respect to the vertical axis or vertical direction (at the inverted position) during the tilting or swinging movement of the offshore structure. For example, the (maximum) tilt angle, preferably an acceptable tilt angle range, may be provided as an attitude setpoint parameter. Specifically, if the actual tilt angle is outside the acceptable tilt angle range, the length may be changed (until) the detected tilt angle falls within the acceptable range again (specifically, for a long period of time).

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the attitude detection device may be a tilt frequency detection device configured to detect the tilt frequency of the offshore structure. It is understood that detecting the tilt frequency includes detecting the tilt duration. Control can be performed in a similar manner as described for the tilt angle.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, at least a first selectable attitude setpoint parameter for a first (desired) attitude state of the offshore structure and a second selectable attitude setpoint parameter for a second (desired) attitude state of the offshore structure may be provided, the first attitude state being different from the second attitude state.

[0040] For example, the first attitude state may be a (normal) operating state, and the second attitude state may be a landing state. During normal operation, stronger tilting or rocking movements may be tolerated (corresponding to a predetermined first attitude state and a first attitude setpoint parameter (data set) respectively). On the other hand, during the landing process, only slight tilting or rocking movements may be tolerated (corresponding to a predetermined second attitude state and a second attitude setpoint parameter, respectively). In particular, each at least one attitude setpoint parameter may be selectable (e.g., by a user desiring to land) and in particular may be predefined for the control module.

[0041] In further variations of the present application, additional or other selectable attitude setpoint parameters may be provided for additional or other attitude states, for example, a maintenance state may be provided having at least one respective attitude setpoint parameter that may be selected (after landing) for maintenance operations.

[0042] For example, it can be provided that at least one minimum attitude parameter (dataset) is stored locally on the offshore structure, which ensures that a certain minimum stable position (and situation, respectively) of the offshore structure is maintained at all times. The actual position of the offshore structure can then be set within an acceptable range, specifically (for offshore wind turbines) to maximize the energy production of the offshore wind farm.

[0043] According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, at least one vertical anchor connection extending substantially vertically may be attached to the floating foundation. At least one angular anchor connection extending at an angle of at least 2°, preferably at least 5° (maximum 45°) to the vertical may be attached to the floating foundation. The attitude stabilization device may be configured to change the length of the vertical anchor connection and / or the angular anchor connection based on at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure. In particular, it may be advantageous if the lengths of the vertical anchor connection and the angular anchor connection are changed differently depending on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter.

[0044] In particular, it can be predetermined by at least one attitude setpoint parameter that if the vertical plane in which the angle of an angle anchor connection lies relative to the vertical direction (vertical axis) extends in a direction parallel to (or within a range of ±20°) the prevailing wind and / or wave direction (in particular, the anchor of this angle anchor connection is located on the side where the wind and / or waves impinge), the anchor connection of said angle anchor connection is shortened (for example by 2 to 10 m) more than at least one vertical anchor connection, in particular, so that in the absence of wind and waves, a tilt towards the prevailing wind and / or wave direction would occur. Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that the length of at least one further angle anchor connection, whose anchor is on the side facing away from the wind and / or waves, remains unchanged or is extended, in order that in the absence of wind and waves, a tilt towards the prevailing wind and / or wave direction would occur.

[0045] As already mentioned above, the attitude parameters (and attitude setpoint parameters) may be attitude parameters that directly indicate the attitude of the offshore structure, such as the attitude parameters described above. Alternatively or additionally, the attitude parameters may be parameters from which the (possible) (current and / or predicted) attitude of the offshore structure can be derived. In particular, they may be attitude parameters that directly influence the attitude of the offshore structure. According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, the attitude parameters may be meteorological environment parameters (from which the actual current or future attitude parameters can be determined). At least one meteorological environment parameter may be: - Wind direction (measured or predicted), - Wind power (measured or forecasted), - Wave height (measured or predicted), - Wave direction (measured or predicted) can be selected from the group including:

[0046] These meteorological and environmental parameters are particularly relevant to the attitude of offshore structures.

[0047] Specifically, it was confirmed that the aforementioned meteorological environmental parameters can affect the tilt angle (and therefore tilting motion) of the floating offshore structure. For example, the length can be changed in the presence of (current and / or predicted) swell and wave heights, respectively, that exceed certain corresponding attitude parameter set points (e.g., threshold wave height xm). The length can also be extended to lift the offshore structure so that waves can travel underneath it. The length can also be shortened to improve attitude by increasing the depth of the floating foundation, which can reduce the tilt angle. This, in turn, can increase electricity generation.

[0048] Preferably, at least two, preferably all, of said meteorological environment parameters can be determined and in particular provided. In particular, the at least one attitude parameter can be provided by at least one meteorological measurement device (e.g., a measurement mast) of the offshore wind farm and / or meteorological service. In a further variant of the present application, alternatively or additionally, at least one further meteorological environment parameter (e.g., precipitation, solar radiation, etc.) can be provided.

[0049] According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, the attitude stabilization device may (alternatively or additionally) comprise at least one ballast tank that can be filled with a ballast medium (preferably water, in particular seawater). Preferably, the at least one ballast tank may be integrated into the at least one foundation. The ballast tank may also be attached to the outside of the foundation.

[0050] If two or more foundations and foundation elements are provided, each foundation can have a ballast tank. At least one ballast tank can be specifically positioned to allow filling / discharging to occur at a specific vertical and / or horizontal alignment of the foundation. If there are multiple ballast tanks, filling / discharging can be specifically controlled to allow specific filling / discharging of at least two ballast tanks.

[0051] The attitude stabilization device may comprise at least one ballast medium transport mechanism configured to change the fill level of the ballast tanks, particularly to stabilize the attitude of the offshore structure.

[0052] The ballast medium transport mechanism can be disposed in or on the foundation. By changing the filling level, specifically, the vertical distance to the water line or the underwater ground surface is changed, which can stabilize the attitude of the offshore structure. In this embodiment, the attitude setpoint parameter can be a setpoint filling amount (e.g., full, half, empty, x liters, etc.). According to such a predetermined attitude setpoint parameter, the ballast medium transport mechanism can change the filling level of the ballast tank to change the vertical distance.

[0053] Particularly preferably, the ballast medium transport mechanism may include at least one pump device configured to change the fill level of the ballast tank by actively transporting the ballast medium into the ballast tank and / or by actively transporting the ballast medium out of the ballast tank. Specifically, if active transport of the ballast medium out of the ballast tank is performed, filling may be performed passively by opening the tank opening. Specifically, if active transport of the ballast medium into the ballast tank is performed, discharging may be performed passively by opening the tank opening. However, preferably, at least one pump device may be provided for performing both filling and discharging.

[0054] The setting of a specific fill level can be controlled by a control module. A level measuring element can be used to monitor the fill level, which allows a predetermined attitude setpoint parameter in the form of a setpoint fill amount to be reliably set.

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, according to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the present application, the attitude stabilization device may comprise at least one weight mechanism connected to the floating foundation, which weight mechanism is changeable at least between a state lowered to the underwater ground surface and a state raised from the underwater ground surface, for example by a suitable lifting device.

[0056] Specifically, the weight mechanism may include a weight connection (e.g., an anchor rope and / or an anchor chain) that can be connected to the foundation. The other end of the weight connection may be connected to a weight element of the weight mechanism. In the lowered state, the weight element can be lowered at least downward and lowered to the underwater ground surface, respectively. In this state, specifically, almost no weight force can be applied to the foundation by the at least one weight element of the weight mechanism.

[0057] In the raised state, the weight element can be raised away from the underwater ground surface, i.e., (almost) out of contact with the underwater ground surface. In that state, specifically, a weight force (corresponding to the weight of the weight element of the weight mechanism) is applied to the foundation by at least one weight element of the weight mechanism. By adjusting between said states, a change in said vertical distance can be made, which can (positively) influence the attitude of the offshore device.

[0058] Specifically, when the above-described ballast tank having a ballast transport mechanism and / or the above-described weight mechanism is provided, according to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure, the attitude stabilization device may include at least one tracking module configured to track the anchor connection (i.e., a change in the length of the anchor connection) when the vertical distance between the underwater ground surface of the underwater ground and the floating foundation (or between the foundation and the water line and the water surface, respectively) is changed.

[0059] Thus, to prevent the desired (minimum and / or maximum) tension between the anchor and the foundation from being exceeded or exceeded, each anchor connection can be specifically coupled with a tracking module for tracking the anchor connection. In other variations, the tracking device can be eliminated.

[0060] The at least one attitude setpoint parameter may also be determined, specifically to increase electricity production without the offshore structure assuming an unacceptable attitude. For example, as described, at least one minimum attitude setpoint parameter may be specified. The actual attitude of the offshore structure may then be set within an acceptable range, specifically (for the offshore wind turbines) to maximize energy production of the offshore wind farm.

[0061] A further aspect of the present application is an offshore system, in particular an offshore wind farm, comprising a plurality of the offshore structures described above, the offshore system comprising at least one controller configured to pre-set at least one attitude setpoint parameter for the plurality of offshore structures.

[0062] In particular, it can be provided that in an offshore wind farm, a plurality of offshore wind turbines can be at least partially preconfigured with different attitude setpoint parameters, in particular the attitude setpoint parameters can be determined to, on the one hand, ensure a (predefined) sufficiently safe stable position and, on the other hand, increase the total energy production of the offshore wind farm.

[0063] In particular, a (central) control device (e.g., implemented as a software module in a central controller of an offshore wind farm) may be provided, and the multiple offshore wind turbines may be controlled by transmitting at least one control command, including at least one attitude setpoint parameter (as described above), via a communication network.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment of the offshore wind farm according to the present application, the attitude setpoint parameter may additionally depend on the position of the first offshore wind turbine relative to at least one further offshore wind turbine of the offshore wind farm, in other words the attitude setpoint parameter may then be park-position dependent.

[0065] Preferably, the attitude setpoint parameters used to control a particular offshore wind turbine may depend on the location of that offshore wind turbine within the offshore wind farm. For example, each offshore wind turbine may be associated with a park location attribute (e.g., a geographical representation of the offshore wind turbine, a representation of the row of offshore wind turbines that are located relative to a particular direction (e.g., prevailing wind direction), and / or the like). A data memory mechanism accessible by the control device may, for example, store a turbine identifier for the offshore wind turbine together with at least one park location attribute (indicative of the park location).

[0066] Specifically, it has been determined that when an offshore wind turbine is located downwind of another offshore wind turbine under certain weather and environmental conditions, the amount of electrical energy produced may be reduced. By taking into account the respective park positions of the offshore wind turbines according to the present application, the amount of energy produced can be increased, in addition to specifically ensuring a sufficiently safe attitude. For example, for two offshore wind turbines located one behind the other (in terms of the current or predicted prevailing wind direction), different vertical distances can be set by the corresponding attitude setpoint parameters, and therefore the hub heights, which can increase the total production of these two offshore wind turbines.

[0067] According to a further embodiment of the offshore system, in particular the wind farm, according to the present application, at least a first meteorological environmental condition and a second meteorological environmental condition different from the first environmental condition can be specified. The meteorological environmental condition (and the criterion, respectively) in particular comprises at least one meteorological environmental parameter range. During the evaluation, it can be checked whether the provided meteorological environmental parameter (as explained above) is within at least one environmental parameter range. In other words, it can be checked whether at least one meteorological environmental parameter (value) satisfies at least one environmental condition.

[0068] In the assignment table, in particular for each environmental condition, each offshore wind turbine (and each corresponding turbine identifier) ​​can be assigned (exactly) one attitude setpoint parameter (and further, as explained above, selectable attitude setpoint parameters can be provided for special situations). The attitude setpoint parameters may depend on the park position and each respective park position attribute (additionally defining a minimum stable attitude), as explained. In particular, the assignment table can be stored in a data memory mechanism.

[0069] Upon detecting a particular meteorological environmental condition (specifically, upon detecting a change in the meteorological environmental condition (e.g., from a first meteorological environmental condition to a second meteorological environmental condition, or vice versa)), the controller may access the stored assignment table and, specifically, control at least some of the offshore wind turbines of the offshore wind farm, preferably all of the offshore wind turbines of the offshore wind farm, in accordance with their respective stored attitude setpoint parameters.

[0070] The attitude setpoint parameters that can be used for control can be predetermined, specifically by predetermined is meant that the attitude setpoint parameters, specifically in the form of height setpoints, are determined not only when a particular weather environmental condition is detected (specifically when a change in weather environmental condition (e.g., from a first weather environmental condition to a second weather environmental condition, or vice versa) is detected), but also in advance in time.

[0071] In particular, a plurality of attitude setpoint parameters may be determined prior to installation of the offshore wind farm (e.g., by a simulation model) and / or shortly thereafter (e.g., by testing). Preferably, the attitude setpoint parameters may be variably stored such that optimization may be performed during operation of the offshore wind farm, in particular by evaluating actual electricity production (e.g., compared to electricity production determined by a simulation process).

[0072] According to a further embodiment of the offshore wind farm according to the present application, the offshore wind turbines may be grouped into at least a first subgroup of offshore wind turbines, each subgroup comprising the same first park location attribute (corresponding to a respective park location, as described above), and a second subgroup of offshore wind turbines, each subgroup comprising the same second park location attribute (corresponding to a respective park location, as described above). The controller may be configured to control the first subgroup of offshore wind turbines using an attitude setpoint parameter that is different from the attitude setpoint parameter by which the second subgroup of offshore wind turbines is controlled. It is understood that the grouping may be performed into more than two subgroups. The grouping may be (essentially) mapped to said allocation table. It is understood that control is performed, in particular, upon detection of a particular environmental condition. Furthermore, the grouping may depend on the environmental condition. In other words, a dynamic (rather than static) grouping into subgroups may be performed.

[0073] The grouping strategy and height adjustment strategy (which are mappable and preferred in at least one allocation table), respectively, can preferably always increase the first row of offshore wind turbines (in the wind direction) to a maximum height that still guarantees a sufficiently stable position. The second row can be set to a minimum height, then the third row can also be set to a maximum height, etc. It is also conceivable to always move the first row of offshore wind turbines (in the wind direction) to a minimum height, set the second row to a maximum height, then also set the third row to a minimum height, etc.

[0074] If further intermediate heights and / or continuous adjustment of distance and height, respectively, are possible, other grouping strategies and height adjustment strategies, respectively, may also be provided and may in particular be mapped to an assignment table or database.

[0075] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the offshore wind farm according to the present application, the offshore wind farm may comprise at least one attitude setpoint determination device configured to (pre-)determine attitude setpoint parameters (to be used for the control, in particular in the form of height setpoints) for controlling the plurality of offshore wind turbines in response to at least one measured or predicted meteorological environmental condition.

[0076] The attitude setpoint determination device can be configured to perform multiple simulation steps, particularly based on a simulation model of multiple wind turbines of an offshore wind farm. Specifically, a (mathematical) simulation model of the offshore wind farm can be created during planning and before installation, and this model can be used to at least simulate, in principle, the total power generation under different meteorological and environmental conditions, particularly with different vertical distance settings. Here, it is also possible to simulate, for example, the maximum or minimum height that can be set without causing damage due to tilting movements. In this way, particularly, at least one minimum attitude setpoint parameter can be determined. In another variant, the attitude setpoint determination device can alternatively or additionally be configured to perform tests.

[0077] In each simulation step (or test step), different attitude set points can preferably be set for a number of offshore wind turbines, and in each case the total power production can be determined for the attitude set points. For example, the setting strategies mentioned above can be simulated.

[0078] As attitude setpoints for (actually) controlling a plurality of offshore wind turbines under specific meteorological and environmental conditions, attitude setpoints that maximize the determined (simulated or tested) total power generation (and ensure sufficient stability of each offshore wind turbine) can be determined (specifically, stored in an allocation table). In other words, for preferably at least two different meteorological and environmental conditions, each attitude setpoint that maximizes at least the simulated (or tested) total power generation can be determined by a simulation process (having multiple simulation steps).

[0079] Preferably, the optimization process can be performed while the offshore wind farm is in operation. In particular, actual total power generation and simulated (or tested) total power generation can be evaluated. In particular, if the actual total power generation is lower than the simulated total power generation, the attitude setpoint can be adjusted (e.g., using artificial intelligence) at least in part to increase production. Here, historical data and / or data from other offshore wind farms can be taken into account.

[0080] A further aspect of the present application is a method for stabilizing the attitude of a floating offshore structure, particularly the floating offshore structure described above, wherein the offshore structure comprises at least one anchoring mechanism configured to fix the offshore structure to an underwater ground in an anchored state of the offshore structure, and the anchoring mechanism comprises at least one anchor connection extending between an anchor and a floating foundation. - providing at least one attitude setpoint parameter and at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure; - changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation in the anchoring state based on the attitude parameters and the attitude set point parameters of the offshore structure; Includes.

[0081] The method can be used in particular for operating, in particular for controlling, a plurality of floating offshore wind turbines, i.e. in particular for operating, in particular for controlling, the above-mentioned offshore wind farm.

[0082] A further aspect of the present application is - at least one floating foundation for an offshore structure, in particular for an offshore structure as described above; - at least one anchoring mechanism comprising at least one anchor connection fixable to the floating foundation; - at least one attitude stabilization device in the form of a winch device, the at least one attitude stabilization device being tetherable to the anchor connection and configured to reel in and / or pay out the anchor connection tethered to the winch device based on at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure and at least one attitude setpoint parameter; It is a floating offshore set equipped with:

[0083] It should be noted that modules, devices, etc. may be formed at least in part by software elements (particularly in the form of computer code executable by a processor) and / or at least in part by hardware elements (processors, memory means, actuators, etc.).

[0084] The features of the offshore structure, the offshore system (particularly the offshore wind farm), the method and the offshore set may be freely combined with each other. In particular, the features of this specification and / or the dependent claims may be used alone or in free combination with each other, and may independently be inventive even if the features of the independent claims are wholly or partially avoided.

[0085] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and further developing the offshore structure according to the present application, the offshore system according to the present application, the process according to the present application and the offshore set 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 relation to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0086] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application. [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application; [Figure 1C] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application; [Figure 1D] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application; [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application; [Figure 4] 1 is an exemplary tilt motion of a floating offshore structure plotted over time. [Figure 5A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application, having a first set distance; [Figure 5B] 5B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment according to FIG. 5A with an additional set distance. [Figure 6A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure according to the present application, having a first set distance; [Figure 6B] 6B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment according to FIG. 6A with an additional set distance. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an offshore system according to the present application. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram of one embodiment of a method according to the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0087] In the figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements.

[0088] 1A-1D show schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a floating offshore structure 100 according to the present application. The exemplary offshore structure 100 is shown as an offshore wind turbine 100. However, the following embodiments are applicable to other offshore structures.

[0089] The illustrated offshore wind turbines 100 differ in that each floating foundation 104 comprises at least one floating body 106. In particular, the floating foundations 104 at least substantially form the floating body 106.

[0090] Specifically shown are a barge foundation 104 (FIG. 1A), a semi-submersible foundation 104 (FIG. 1B), a spar foundation 104 (FIG. 1C), and a tension-moored platform foundation 104 (FIG. 1D). It is understood that other floating foundations may be provided in other variations of the present application.

[0091] As can be seen, a wind power generating device 102 including a tower, a nacelle, a rotor, a generator, etc. is disposed on at least one floating foundation 104 .

[0092] In this embodiment, the floating foundation 104 is fixed and anchored to the underwater ground 116 by a plurality of anchoring mechanisms 108. The illustrated anchoring mechanisms 108 include anchor connections 109, specifically in the form of anchor ropes 109 or anchor chains 109. One end of the anchor connections 109 is attached to the foundation 104, and the other end is attached to at least one anchor 110 (e.g., a weight anchor, a torpedo anchor, etc.). The anchors 110 can be at least partially buried in the underwater ground 116, as can be seen in Figures 1A to 1D.

[0093] Additionally, in Figures 1A to 1D, the underwater ground surface is designated by reference numeral 118, and the water surface and waterline are designated by reference numeral 114, respectively.

[0094] Additionally, the offshore structure 100 according to the present application comprises at least one attitude stabilization device 112 configured to vary the length 111, 113, 115 of the anchor connection 109 between the anchor 110 and the floating foundation 104 in the anchored state (as shown) based on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter of the offshore structure 100. As can be seen, the lengths 111, 113, 115 here extend from the attachment point of the anchor connection 109 with the anchor 110 to the point where the anchor connection 109 enters the foundation 104.

[0095] Preferably, a plurality of different attitude parameters, for example in the form of attitude parameter data sets, and a corresponding plurality of (predefined) attitude setpoint parameters, for example in the form of corresponding attitude setpoint parameter data sets, may be provided.

[0096] Preferably, the attitude stabilization device 112 may comprise at least one control module configured to control changes in the lengths 111, 113, 115 of the anchor connection 109 between the anchor 110 and the floating foundation 104 based on at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure 100 and at least one attitude setpoint parameter. Specifically, this means that at least one of the lengths 111, 113, 115 is changed so that the (current and / or predicted future) attitude parameter (substantially) corresponds to the attitude setpoint parameter. If at least one attitude setpoint parameter is at the limit of an unacceptable attitude range, a variant of the present application may provide that at least one of the lengths 111, 113, 115 is changed so that the (current and / or predicted future) attitude parameter is at least within an acceptable attitude range, i.e., not above (or below) the attitude setpoint (limit) parameter.

[0097] 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 with the previous embodiment according to Figures 1A to 1D will be described, otherwise reference is made to the previous description.

[0098] The offshore structure 200 includes an attitude stabilization device 212. In this embodiment, the attitude stabilization device 212 includes at least one winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 and three winch devices 224.1, 224.2, 224.3. Specifically, each anchoring mechanism 208.1, 208.2, 208.3 may be associated with a winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3. Preferably, each anchor connection 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 may be connected to a respective winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3. In particular, the anchor connections 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 may be connected to cylindrical drums (winches) of winch devices 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 for winding and unwinding the anchor connections 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 between a minimum length and a maximum length.

[0099] To that end, each winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 may be provided with a drive 226 and a parking brake 221. To change the length 211, 213, 215, the control module 228 of the attitude stabilization device 212 may first control the corresponding parking brake 221 to release the parking brake 221. Next, the control module 228 may control the corresponding drive 226 (preferably an electric motor 226) to reel in or unreel in a specified length. The parking brake may then be relocked under control of the control module 228.

[0100] At least one attitude setpoint parameter (value), preferably an attitude setpoint parameter set, can be provided to the control module 228 via the input 230. Correspondingly, at least one attitude parameter (value), specifically an attitude parameter set, of the offshore structure 200 can be provided. For example, an actual attitude parameter can be provided. The control module 228 can then change the length 211, 213, 215 of the at least one anchoring mechanism 208.1, 208.2, 208.3 such that the at least one attitude setpoint parameter is satisfied by the at least one actual attitude parameter.

[0101] In FIG. 2, reference number 234 represents the (current) main wind direction, and reference number 232 represents the (current) main wave direction (usually, these directions 232, 234 may be approximately the same).

[0102] 2, at least one vertical anchor connection 209.2 extending in a substantially vertical direction may be attached to the floating foundation 204. At least one angular anchor connection 208.1, 208.3 extending at an angle 229 of at least 2°, preferably at least 5° (maximum 45°) to the vertical may be attached to the floating foundation 204. The attitude stabilization device 212 may be configured to vary the length of the vertical anchor connection 208.2 and / or the angular anchor connections 208.1, 208.3 based on at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure 200. In particular, it may be advantageous if the respective lengths of the vertical anchor connection 208.2 and the at least one angular anchor connection 208.1, 208.3 are varied differently depending on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter.

[0103] In particular, it can be predefined by at least one attitude setpoint parameter that the anchor connection of said angle anchor connection 208.1 is shorter (for example by 2 to 10 m) than at least one vertical anchor connection 208.2 so that the vertical plane in which the angle 229 of the angle anchor connection 208.1, 208.3 lies relative to the vertical direction extends in a direction (±20°) parallel to the main wind direction (±20°) and / or the main wave direction (±20°), in particular when the anchor 210 of said angle anchor connection 208.1 is located on the side where the wind and / or waves impinge, in particular in the absence of wind and waves, an inclination towards the main wind direction 234 and / or the main wave direction 232 would occur. Additionally or alternatively, at least one further angle anchor connection 208.3 located on the side of the anchor 210 facing away from the wind and / or waves can be provided to remain unchanged or extended so that in the absence of wind and waves a tilt towards the main wind direction 234 and / or main wave direction 232 would occur.

[0104] As can be further seen in Figure 2, in particular, an offshore set is provided, which comprises at least one floating foundation 204 for the offshore structure 200, at least one anchoring mechanism 208 having at least one anchor connection 209 attachable to the floating foundation 204, and at least one attitude stabilization device 212 in the form of a winch device 224 connectable to the anchor connections 224.1, 224.2, 224.3, configured to reel in and / or pay out the anchor connections 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 connected to the winch devices 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 based on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter of the offshore structure 200.

[0105] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of an offshore structure 300 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, in the following, essentially only the differences from the previous embodiment according to Figures 1A to 2 will be described, and reference will be made to the previous description otherwise. Please note that in order to provide an overview only, illustrations of the entire offshore device, anchoring mechanisms, control modules, etc. have been omitted.

[0106] Specifically, Figure 3 illustrates the tilting and swaying motions (indicated by arrows 338) of the floating offshore structure 300. Thus, in dashed line form, the offshore structure 300 is shown at the point of reversal of the tilting motion, i.e., when the tilt angle 342 is at its maximum. Additionally, the offshore structure 300 is shown in a vertical position.

[0107] The time course of the tilt angle α between the maximum tilt angles −442 and 442 is shown in Figure 4. As can be seen in Figure 4, the curve is essentially sinusoidal.

[0108] The offshore structure 300 comprises at least one attitude detection device 319 (having at least one suitable attitude sensor) configured to detect at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure 300. In other words, in this embodiment, the offshore structure 300 itself, specifically by means of the attitude detection device 319, can determine at least one actual attitude parameter of the offshore structure 300. Control of at least one drive, specifically of a winch device or another device (e.g., ballast media transport mechanism, lifting device), can be performed specifically according to the difference between the detected attitude parameter, the actual attitude parameter, and a (predetermined) attitude setpoint parameter, respectively. It is to be understood that an actual attitude parameter data set and a corresponding attitude setpoint parameter data set can be provided.

[0109] Specifically, the at least one attitude parameter may be at least one attitude angle (also referred to as Euler angle) of the offshore structure 300. For example, the at least one attitude parameter may be a yaw angle (the angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure 300 and a vertical axis (also referred to as the z-axis)), a roll angle (the angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure 300 and a longitudinal axis (also referred to as the x-axis)), and / or a pitch or pitch angle (the angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure 300 and a longitudinal axis (also referred to as the y-axis)).

[0110] Preferably, the attitude detection device 319 may be a tilt angle detection device 319 configured to detect a (maximum) tilt angle 342 of the offshore structure 300. As shown, the tilt angle 342 is specifically a (maximum) angle 342 with respect to a vertical axis 340 and direction z during the tilting or swinging movement 338 of the offshore structure 300. For example, the (maximum) tilt angle 342, preferably an acceptable tilt angle range, may be provided as an attitude setpoint parameter. If the actual tilt angle 342 is outside the acceptable tilt angle range, specifically, the length may be changed (until) the detected tilt angle 342 falls within the acceptable range again (specifically, for a long period of time).

[0111] Alternatively or additionally, the attitude detection device 319 may detect the tilt frequency (f kipp =1 / T kipp , see FIG. 4). kipp Detecting the gradient duration T kipp It is to be understood that this includes detecting the tilt angle. Control can be performed in a similar manner as discussed for the tilt angle.

[0112] Figures 5A and 5B show a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure 500, in which the vertical distances 547.1 and 547.2 are set to be different. To avoid repetition, in the following, essentially only the differences from the previous embodiment according to Figures 1A to 4 will be described, and reference will otherwise be made to the previous description. It should be noted that a diagram of the entire wind power generation device has been omitted, in order to provide an overview only.

[0113] The difference between distances 547.1 and 547.2 in Figures 5A and 5B is represented by reference number 522. The configurable difference may preferably be between 10 m and 40 m.

[0114] To set the vertical distances 547.1, 547.2 (to the underwater ground surface (and to the waterline, respectively)), an attitude stabilization device 512 is provided in this case. The illustrated attitude stabilization device 512 comprises at least one ballast tank 539, which can be filled with ballast medium 525 and is preferably arranged on the foundation 504. Furthermore, the attitude stabilization device 512 comprises at least one ballast medium transport mechanism 531, which is configured in particular to change the fill level 527 of the ballast tank 539.

[0115] Specifically, the ballast medium transport mechanism 531 includes two pump devices 545. Specifically, one pump device 545 is configured to actively pump (indicated by arrow 541) the ballast medium 525 (specifically, water) into the ballast tank 539, thereby changing the fill level 527 of the ballast tank 539. Specifically, an opening 543 may be arranged in the foundation 504, through which the ballast medium 525 can be pumped into the ballast tank 539.

[0116] In particular, the further pump device 230 is configured to change the fill level 527 of the ballast tank 539 by actively pumping (indicated by arrow 537) the ballast medium 525 out of the ballast tank 539. In particular, a further opening 533 may be arranged in the foundation 504, through which the ballast medium 525 is pumped out of the ballast tank 539.

[0117] Preferably, a control module 528 may be provided. The (local) control module 528 of the attitude stabilization device 512 may be controllable by a controller (not shown), for example, with attitude setpoint parameters (e.g., a particular fill volume (e.g., full, half, x liters, etc.)). Preferably, a minimum attitude setpoint parameter may be stored locally.

[0118] Depending on the current filling level 527, which can be measured by a filling level measuring element (not shown) of the control module 528, and the received height set point, the pump device 545 can be controlled such that the filling level 527 is changed according to the attitude set point parameter. In particular, by changing the vertical distances 547.1, 557.2, the attitude of the offshore structure 500 can be stabilized. This in turn can in particular increase the amount of electricity produced.

[0119] The attitude stabilization device 512 may further comprise at least one tracking module 551 configured to track (i.e., change the length of) the anchor connections 509, particularly when the vertical distance 547.1, 547.2 between the underwater ground surface 518 of the underwater ground 516 and the floating foundation 504 changes. Accordingly, each anchor connection 509 may be coupled to the tracking module 551 to track the anchor connection 509, particularly to prevent a desired (minimum and / or maximum) tension between the anchor 510 and the foundation 504 from being exceeded or exceeded.

[0120] 6A and 6B show a further embodiment of a floating offshore structure 600, in which the vertical distances 647.1 and 647.2 are set to be different. To avoid repetition, in the following, essentially only the differences from the previous embodiment according to Figures 1A to 5B will be described, and reference will otherwise be made to the previous description. Note that, to provide an overview only, illustrations of the entire wind power generation device and of the anchoring mechanism (and tracking module) have been omitted.

[0121] In this embodiment, the attitude stabilization device 612 includes at least one weight mechanism 612 connected to the floating foundation 604. Specifically, the weight mechanism 612 may include a weight connection 654 (e.g., an anchor cable 654 and / or an anchor chain 654) that may be connected to the foundation 604. The other end of the weight connection 654 may be connected to a weight element 656 of the weight mechanism 612.

[0122] In the lowered state of the weight mechanism 612, in particular, almost no gravitational force is applied to the base 640 by the at least one weight element 656 of the weight mechanism 612. In the raised state of the weight mechanism 612, for example caused by a lifting device 658 (e.g., a winch 658), in particular a gravitational force g (corresponding to the weight of the weight element 656 of the weight mechanism) is applied to the base 604 by the at least one weight element 656 of the weight mechanism 612. Setting the weight mechanism 612 between said states by the lifting device 658 can cause a change of said vertical distances 647.1, 647.2 between at least two discrete values.

[0123] Again, a control module (not shown) may be provided that may control the lifting device 658 in response to the received attitude setpoint parameters (eg, lower or not lower).

[0124] It is to be understood that the embodiments according to Figures 2, 5A, 5B and / or 6A, 6B can be combined with one another.

[0125] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an offshore system 760. An offshore wind farm 760 is shown as an example. In the following embodiment, at least one attitude setpoint parameter can be provided, specifically, predetermined by a control device 762. At least one attitude setpoint parameter, preferably at least two selectable different attitude setpoint parameters (data sets), can be pre-stored locally in the offshore structures 700.1-700.4. For example, at least one minimum attitude setpoint parameter (data set) can be pre-stored locally in each of the offshore structures 700.1-700.4. This ensures that a specific minimum stable position of each of the offshore structures 700.1-700.4 can be maintained at all times. The actual attitude of the offshore structures 700.1-700.4 can then be set within an acceptable (variable, specifically production-optimized) range, specifically (with respect to the offshore wind turbines 700.1-700.4) to maximize the energy production at the offshore wind farm. A minimum set of attitude parameters (dataset) ensures that a sufficiently stable position of each offshore wind turbine 700.1-700.4 is maintained at all times.

[0126] In the following, it is assumed that a minimum set of attitude setpoint parameters (dataset) have been predefined, and additionally, depending on meteorological and environmental conditions, attitude setpoint parameters, in particular in the form of height setpoints, have been predefined by the controller 762 of the offshore wind farm 760. Such pre-configuration is explained in more detail below.

[0127] For example, the controller 762 may be implemented in a park control system (not shown) of the offshore wind farm 760 (provided in some manner).

[0128] In this embodiment, the control device 762 includes a communications module 764, an advanced control module 768, a detection device 770, an advanced set point determination device 772, and a data memory mechanism 774. It is understood that other variations can provide additional or fewer modules / devices.

[0129] The height set point determination device 772 may alternatively be implemented in a separate computing device and may be configured to determine at least the height set point in response to at least one meteorological environmental condition (at the installation location of the offshore wind farm 760).

[0130] Preferably, the determination may be made before installation of the offshore wind farm 760, but may also be made during and / or (shortly after) installation of the offshore wind farm 760. As explained, the optimization process can be performed (continuously) during operation.

[0131] Preferably, the determination of the attitude setpoint parameters in the form of height setpoint values ​​may be performed for preferably all offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4.

[0132] In particular, each determined height setpoint may depend on the (park) location of each offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4, in particular on the location of at least one further offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4 of the offshore wind farm 760. For example, a plan and / or model of the offshore wind farm 760 may be stored (e.g., in the data memory mechanism 774 or another memory mechanism) in which each offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4 is assigned a park location attribute. From the respective park location attributes, at least the park location may be derived. In particular, the respective park location attributes may be used to (dynamically) form at least two subgroups of the offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4. In particular, this means that the offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 of the subgroups are set at essentially the same vertical distance, i.e., are controlled using essentially the same height setpoint. Specifically, the groupings can be (essentially) mapped to allocation tables and databases, respectively.

[0133] The at least one height set point determination device 772 may be configured to (pre-)determine height set points for controlling the plurality of offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 in response to at least one measured or predicted meteorological environmental condition. The height set point determination device 772 may be configured to perform a plurality of simulation steps, in particular based on a simulation model of the plurality of wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 of the offshore wind farm 760. In another variant of the present application, actual tests may be performed to determine the amount of electricity production, as described above.

[0134] In particular, a (mathematical) simulation model of the offshore wind power plant 760 can be created during planning and before installation, and using this model it is possible, in principle, to simulate and in particular determine at least the total power generation according to different meteorological and environmental conditions, in particular using differently set vertical distances / locations.

[0135] At each simulation step, different height set points can preferably be set for the multiple offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4, and the total power generation can be determined for each of the height set points.

[0136] As a height set point, i.e., an attitude set point parameter, for (actually) controlling the multiple offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 in their respective weather and environmental conditions, a height set point that maximizes the determined total power generation can be determined and specifically stored in an allocation table in the data memory mechanism 774.

[0137] The respective height set points that maximize the total simulated power production, preferably for at least two different meteorological environmental conditions, can be determined by a simulation process (having multiple simulation steps). In an allocation table, height set points can be allocated to each (given) environmental condition for each offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4.

[0138] Specifically, by determining height setpoints, the grouping strategies and height adjustment strategies, respectively, can be specified and mapped. For example, the first row of offshore wind turbines 700.1, 700.2 can be controlled to always maximize vertical distance (i.e., maximize hub height) in that wind direction (i.e., at specific detected environmental conditions). The second row of offshore wind turbines 700.3, 700.4 can be controlled to minimize vertical distance (i.e., minimize hub height) in that wind direction (i.e., at specific detected environmental conditions). In other variations, the settings can be exactly the opposite. Other grouping strategies and height adjustment strategies, respectively, can be provided when additional intermediate heights and / or continuous distance or height adjustments are possible.

[0139] During operation, the offshore wind farm 760 may provide at least one specific meteorological environmental parameter of the offshore wind farm 760. Specifically, the at least one meteorological environmental parameter may be provided to the controller 762 via the communication module 764. The at least one specific meteorological environmental parameter may be a current meteorological environmental parameter and / or a predicted meteorological environmental parameter measured by at least one measurement device. Preferably, multiple meteorological environmental parameters (measured and / or predicted values) may be provided, such as wind direction (measured and / or predicted value), wind force (measured and / or predicted value), wave height (measured and / or predicted value), and wave direction (measured and / or predicted value).

[0140] The detection device 770 can specifically detect whether at least one (predetermined) meteorological environmental condition is fulfilled by at least one specific provided meteorological environmental parameter. Specifically, the meteorological environmental condition (and criterion, respectively) includes at least one meteorological environmental parameter range. During detection, it can be verified whether the meteorological environmental parameter is within at least one environmental parameter range. In other words, it can be checked whether at least one meteorological environmental parameter (value) fulfills at least one environmental condition.

[0141] Specifically, it can detect whether the weather and environmental conditions have changed such that a change in vertical distance / attitude should be made. If it is determined that the weather and environmental conditions have not changed, then specifically, no change in vertical distance is required.

[0142] Specifically, when it is detected that a meteorological environmental condition has changed from a previously detected meteorological environmental condition, e.g., from a first meteorological environmental condition to a second meteorological environmental condition (e.g., wind force and / or wind direction may have changed or has changed within a range specified by a defined environmental condition), the height control module 768 controls at least one attitude stabilization device of the offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 using the height setpoint and attitude setpoint parameters, respectively, to effect a corresponding change in height setpoint, specifically, a change in vertical distance, from the floating foundations of the offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 to the underwater ground surface. Specifically, at least each of the offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 for which a change in vertical distance is to be effected can be controlled.

[0143] Preferably, the height control module 768 can access the described assignment table stored in the data memory mechanism 774 to determine and read the respective height setpoints (and attitude setpoints, respectively) to be used for control. The height control module 768 can then send respective control commands, each including at least one height setpoint (described above). The control commands can be sent to each of the offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 via the communications module 764 and communications network 756. Each attitude stabilization device can then adjust its vertical distance and vertical attitude, respectively, as described above.

[0144] Specifically, depending on the wind direction, the individual heights of the wind turbine hub can be set to maximize production. As already mentioned, possible height settings are continuous or discontinuous, for example with two or three preset heights.

[0145] Furthermore, it may be provided that all offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 reduce, in particular minimize, their vertical distance when wind and / or waves (e.g., caused by a third meteorological environmental condition) are too strong because the reference power has been reached and / or to avoid damage.

[0146] Figure 8 shows a diagram of one embodiment of a method according to the present application for stabilizing the position of a floating offshore structure, in particular a floating offshore structure according to the previous embodiment, wherein the offshore structure comprises at least one anchoring mechanism configured to fix the offshore structure to the underwater ground in the anchored state of the offshore structure, and the anchoring mechanism comprises at least one anchor connection extending between the anchor and the floating foundation.

[0147] At least one attitude setpoint parameter and at least one attitude parameter of the offshore structure are provided in step 801. In step 802, a length of an anchor connection between the anchor and the floating foundation is changed in an anchoring state based on the attitude parameter of the offshore structure and the attitude setpoint parameter.

[0148] It is to be understood that when a winch device is used, it may be necessary to embed the anchor deeper into the underwater ground and / or increase the weight of the anchor (compared to when the winch device is not provided).

Claims

1. A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), at least one floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) comprising at least one floating body (106, 206, 306, 506, 606); at least one anchoring mechanism (108, 208, 508) configured to fix the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) to an underwater ground (116, 216, 316, 516, 616) in an anchored state of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); Equipped with a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) wherein said anchoring mechanism (108, 208, 508) comprises at least one anchor connection (109, 209, 509) extending between an anchor (110, 210, 510) and said floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) is at least one attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) configured to change the length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) between the anchor (110, 210, 510) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) in the anchored state based on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); at least one substantially vertically extending vertical anchor connection (108, 208, 508) is attached to said floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), the length of said vertical anchor connection being variable; - at least one angle anchor connection (108, 208, 508) extending at an angle of at least 2° to the vertical is attached to said floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), the length of said angle anchor connection being variable; the attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) is configured to vary the lengths of the vertical anchor connections (108, 208, 508) and the angular anchor connections (108, 208, 508) based on at least one attitude parameter of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), characterized in that the lengths of each of the vertical anchor connections (108, 208, 508) and the angular anchor connections (108, 208, 508) can be varied differently.

2. 2. The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to claim 1, characterized in that the attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one winch device (224) connected to the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) between the anchor (110, 210, 510) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), and configured to change the length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509).

3. - said winch device (224) comprises at least one parking brake (221); A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to claim 2, characterized in that the parking brake (221) is releasable to change the length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509).

4. The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) comprises at least one attitude detection device (319) configured to detect the at least one attitude parameter of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

5. - the attitude detection device (319) is an inclination angle detection device (319) configured to detect the inclination angle of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); and / or A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to claim 4, characterized in that the attitude detection device (319) is a tilt frequency detection device (319) configured to detect the tilt frequency of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

6. at least a first selectable attitude setpoint parameter for a first attitude state of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) and a second selectable attitude setpoint parameter for a second attitude state of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) are provided; A floating structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first attitude state is different from the second attitude state.

7. - the attitude parameters are determinable from meteorological environment parameters, said at least one meteorological environmental parameter being - Wind direction, - wind power, - wave height, - wave direction The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it is selected from the group comprising:

8. - said attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one ballast tank (539) that can be filled with a ballast medium (525); - A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one ballast medium transport mechanism (531) configured to change the filling level (525) of the ballast tank (539).

9. The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one weight mechanism (612) connected to the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), and the weight mechanism (612) is changeable at least between a state lowered to an underwater ground surface (118, 218, 518, 618) and a state raised from the underwater ground surface (118, 218, 518, 618).

10. The floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one tracking module (550) configured to track the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) when the vertical distance between the underwater ground surface (118, 218, 518, 618) of the underwater ground (116, 216, 516, 616) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) changes.

11. a plurality of floating structures (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 10; at least one control device (762) configured to pre-set at least one attitude setpoint parameter for said plurality of floating offshore structures (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); An offshore system (760) comprising:

12. A method for stabilizing the attitude of a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) is in an anchored state of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700). at least one anchoring mechanism (108, 208, 508) configured to secure the floating structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) to an underwater ground (116, 2126, 516, 616), the anchoring mechanism (109, 208, 508) comprising at least one anchor (110, 210, 510) and a floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); - providing at least one attitude setpoint parameter and at least one attitude parameter of said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); - varying the length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) between the anchor (110, 210, 510) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) in the anchored state based on the attitude parameters and the attitude setpoint parameters of the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); A method comprising:

13. - at least one floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) for a floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 10; at least one anchoring mechanism (108, 208, 508) comprising at least one anchor connection (109, 209, 509) attachable to said floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604); at least one attitude stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) in the form of a winch device (224), which can be connected to said anchor connection (109, 209, 509) and which is configured to reel in and / or pay out said anchor connection (109, 209, 509) connected to said winch device (224) based on at least one attitude parameter and at least one attitude setpoint parameter of said floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700); A floating offshore set comprising:

14. A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) as described in claim 1, characterized in that the floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) is a floating offshore wind turbine (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

15. A floating offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) as described in claim 1, characterized in that at least one angle anchor connection (108, 208, 508) extends at an angle of at least 5° to the vertical direction.

16. The offshore system (760) described in claim 11, characterized in that the offshore system (760) is an offshore wind power plant (760).

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