Multi-Directional U-Tube Damping for Floating Support Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing floating support structures for offshore wind turbines and other applications are inefficient in damping wave motion across multiple directions, as traditional damping solutions like U-shaped tubes only effectively dampen motion in one direction, and stability issues persist in both floating and bottom-fixed structures subjected to wave and seismic stresses.

Innovation Solution

A stabilization system comprising multiple U-shaped damping devices arranged in a star or polygon configuration, with non-parallel liquid reserves and connecting tubes, allowing dynamic liquid flow to dampen wave motion in various directions, and optionally incorporating gas passage lines and restriction means for enhanced performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single U-shaped damping device is used, then damping in one direction is achieved, but multi-directional damping capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedamping direction coverageVSAvoidnumber of damping devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The damping system is segmented into multiple independent U-shaped damping devices, each responsible for damping in a specific direction. By dividing the single damping function into multiple directional components, the system achieves comprehensive multi-directional damping coverage while maintaining the simplicity of individual device design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple U-shaped damping devices are merged into a single stabilization system, where each device contributes to damping in a specific direction. The combination of these devices creates a unified system that provides omnidirectional damping capability, resolving the contradiction between directional coverage and system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple non-parallel damping devices are arranged, then multi-directional wave motion damping is achieved, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability under variable wave conditionsVSAvoidarrangement configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The damping devices are arranged in non-parallel, asymmetric configurations rather than uniform parallel alignment. This asymmetric arrangement allows each device to target specific directional wave motions, improving reliability under variable wave conditions while the modular nature keeps individual device complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

Each U-shaped damping device is designed with universal functionality to dampen wave motions in its specific direction, and the collective arrangement provides multi-functionality for handling various wave directions. This approach enhances reliability across different sea conditions without requiring fundamentally different device designs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If damping devices are added to existing structures, then wave motion damping is improved, but adaptation to different geometries becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewave-induced motionVSAvoidgeometric adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The damping device arrangement is designed to be dynamic and adaptable, allowing configuration adjustments based on the specific geometry of the supported structure. Each U-shaped device can be independently positioned and oriented to match the structural characteristics, enabling effective damping adaptation across different geometric configurations while maintaining simplicity of individual devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 system provides effective multi-directional damping, reducing wave-induced motion amplitude by up to 40% and enhancing stability across a range of wave incidence angles, while being adaptable to different structural geometries and environments.

Implementation Method 1

damping can be achieved using a ballast system with a 'U-shaped tube' comprising a liquid that can move between the two vertical branches of the U

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectViscous damping: Viscous Damping

Implementation Method 2

The purpose of the floating support is to provide wind turbine buoyancy and stability so as to take up the stresses exerted thereon while limiting motion of the assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydrodynamic damping: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS11267543B2Stabilisation system, in particular for a floating support, comprising multiple u-shaped damping devices

Publication Date: 2022.03.08 IFP ENERGIES NOUVELLES

AI summary

Stabilization system for a system subjected to external stresses, in particular for a floating support structure, the stabilization system comprising at least three damping devices (1), in form of U-shaped tubes, made up of liquid reserves (2) and a connecting tube (3). At least two of the damping devices are not parallel to one another. The invention further relates to a floating support structure comprising such a stabilization system.