Triangular Floating Wind Platform With Modular Hull Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Floating offshore wind energy converters face challenges in construction and installation due to large forces from waves, tides, and winds, requiring a platform that provides buoyancy and structural support while being easy to construct.
Innovation Solution
A floating wind turbine platform with a substantially triangular hull composed of interconnected columns and pontoon members, featuring irregular polygonal cross-sections for enhanced structural integrity and ease of construction, along with adjustable ballast compartments for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a large structure is constructed onshore and then moved to offshore location, then construction is easier, but transportation and installation become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The floating platform is divided into multiple modular components including pontoon members, column structures, and connector elements that can be assembled in a triangular configuration. This segmentation allows for easier onshore construction of individual modules followed by straightforward offshore assembly, resolving the contradiction between construction ease and transportation complexity.
2Strength
If the platform is designed to withstand large wave and tidal forces, then structural strength is improved, but construction difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The platform structure is segmented into standardized modular components with simplified connection interfaces. This allows complex structural requirements to be met through precise modular assembly rather than monolithic construction, maintaining strength while improving ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple structural functions are merged into integrated connector elements that simultaneously provide mechanical connection, structural reinforcement, and alignment features. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining the required structural strength to withstand wave and tidal forces.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional pontoon connections are used, then construction is simple, but structural soundness under large forces is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Connection elements are pre-assembled and pre-positioned on the pontoon members before final platform assembly. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and structural integrity are achieved before the platform is subjected to operational forces, combining construction simplicity with structural reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The platform provides robust support and buoyancy for wind turbines, facilitating easier construction and improved stability under harsh marine conditions, while allowing for controlled weight distribution and reduced material use.
Implementation Method 1
a platform of a floating wind energy converted must be constructed to be able to provide buoyancy
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a floating wind turbine platform, comprising: a substantially triangular hull configurable to support a wind turbine tower; the hull comprising a first, second and third column, the first, second and third columns being connected by a first, second and third pontoon member, as well as by a first, second and third connector.