EP2333163A1 - Offshore structure - Google Patents

Abstract

The offshore structure has a base structure (10) with columns (18) and a transition piece (12) for connection with a building, particularly as a plant part of a wind energy plant, a tower or a substation. The columns of the base structure are connected with the transition piece of the base structure by plates (26).

Description

The invention relates to an offshore structure, such as an offshore wind turbine, an offshore substation or the like, according to the preamble of claim 1.

Offshore structures of the type mentioned here are usually installed and operated offshore in the open sea. Although the founding structure of an offshore structure is predominantly below the water surface, where it is firmly anchored to the seabed, but partly protrudes up out of the water, where a structure, such as a container or a tower of a wind turbine, is attached. The founding structures discussed here, for example so-called jacket structures, have a number of pillars extending from the seabed to above the water surface. Usually, three to six, usually four of these columns are present, which are connected by braces with each other such that the foundation structure tapers upwards, so the columns converge conically at a small angle. The cross-sectional shape of the foundation structure is typically square in a four pillar jacket structure.

At the upper end of the foundation structure, a so-called transition piece is arranged as part of the foundation structure. The transition piece is used to initiate the forces acting on the structure in the foundation structure. Because a stable transition must be created by the typically centrally arranged structure on several individual columns of the foundation structure, such transition pieces usually have a complicated geometry.

A common embodiment of a transition piece has the shape of a cone, to which additional pipe shells are welded for reinforcement and better force introduction. Another variant provides that a part of the transition piece is designed as a tube to which in turn are welded in the columns of the foundation structure connecting pipe ends. In another embodiment, a cross-shaped transition piece is used with a horizontally welded flat plate on which the structure is placed. The known transition pieces for offshore structures is a comparatively complicated production at the same time not optimal introduction of force in the columns of the foundation structure in common.

The invention is therefore an object of the invention to provide an offshore structure with a pillar having foundation structure and a transition piece for connection to a structure, the transition piece on the one hand should be easy to produce and on the other hand ensures improved application of force from the structure in the columns of the foundation structure.

An offshore structure for solving this problem has the features of claim 1. Accordingly, the pillars of the foundation structure are connected to the transition piece of the foundation structure by plates. These plates are fastened on the one hand to the pillars of the foundation structure and on the other hand to the transition piece of the foundation structure. The connection usually takes place by welding. While the joining of the plates to the transition piece preferably already takes place during production, the plates are usually connected to the pillars of the foundation structure only at the site of installation. Alternatively, the production of the connection between the plates and the transition piece can preferably be made only during the installation of the offshore structure.

The plates preferably have an at least substantially flat or flat shape. In particular, they can also be designed as stable sheets. Such flat plates are very easy to produce, since they can only be cut out of larger plate blanks without substantial further post-processing. In particular, no three-dimensional deformation of the plates, as for the production of pipes or shells necessary.

Particularly preferably, the plates are arranged such that they are arranged in almost parallel to a longitudinal central axis of the foundation structure and / or to a longitudinal central axis of the transition piece extending planes. The longitudinal center axis of the foundation structure and the longitudinal center axis of the transition piece are preferably aligned parallel to one another, in particular even identical. This has the advantage that the strongest forces of the construction placed on top of the transition piece in the plane of the plates used to connect the foundation structure and the transition piece are preferably introduced perpendicularly from the transition piece into the foundation structure. For such acting in the plane of the plate forces, the mentioned plates are very stable, so that a high load capacity and low material usage is made possible by the described type.

Preferably, each column, in particular with an end portion thereof, is connected to at least one of the plates. More preferably, each of the columns is connected to a plurality, in particular two plates, in order to increase the load capacity again. The plate connected to the column is used in particular in a preferably slot-shaped recess of the column. Preferably, the recess of the column is formed in a form-fitting manner with respect to the plate, wherein the recess is cut or inserted in particular into the end region of the column. In a preferred tubular design of the columns are for receiving the same plate in particular mutually corresponding, preferably identically formed recesses in essentially opposite walls of the column embedded. This ensures that the plates can be easily used with the transition piece, a durable connection can be produced by welding and an optimal force transmission from the plate is made possible in the column A secure support of the plates is achieved by a lateral and upper projection. But it is also a flush conclusion with the outer wall of the column or even a jumping back against the same possible. The recesses of the column for receiving the plates are preferably arranged symmetrically to the longitudinal center axis of the column. Thus, a uniform load distribution is achieved on the cross section of the column. In the case of one plate per column, this is preferably arranged centrically, with two or more plates per column, these are preferably distributed more or less uniformly over the cross section of the column. The plate is preferably at least with the majority of its circumference on the pillar in the recess.

In particular, a plurality of plates are preferably connected to the same column (s). As a result, a multiplication of the load and also a lateral stabilization of the plates is achieved. Preferably, a plurality, in particular in each case two of the plates are arranged at least substantially parallel to one another. Such an arrangement results in a uniformly distributed force application.

At least two of the plates are arranged at an angle to each other, preferably at least approximately at right angles. In particular, the plates intersect at least in an imaginary cutting axis, wherein the cutting axis is preferably parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the foundation structure and / or the transition piece in the vicinity of this longitudinal central axis.

Particularly preferably, the transition piece has a basic shape, which is cylindrical, that corresponds to the shape of a cylinder. Particularly preferably, the transition piece is designed as a hollow cylinder with a preferably comparatively thin wall, wherein the outer cylindrical wall surrounds a cavity. Such a design contributes to an easily manufactured and yet stable construction of the transition piece and at the same time preferably provides space inside the transition piece, for example, as a usable interior for inspection, for the arrangement of system parts and the like.

Particularly preferably, the plates are arranged on the outside of the wall of the transition piece projecting laterally. Particularly preferably, the plates on a flat and / or straight side surface or side edge, which is easy to manufacture and with a straight or flat surface of the transition piece is connectable. The plates can thus be easily adapted to an at least partially planar, preferably cylindrical outer wall of the transition piece. A cylindrical transition piece forms in the direction of the longitudinal central axis a flat surface, which is well suited for connection to a straight edge of the plate, in particular by welding.

At least one end-side cross-sectional area of the transition piece essentially corresponds to a corresponding end-side cross-sectional area of the construction, in particular of a tower of the construction. In this case, the central axis of symmetry of the transition piece, whose longitudinal center axis extends, preferably at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the foundation structure. The central axis of symmetry of the transition piece extends in a transition piece in a cylindrical shape along the Longitudinal central axis of this cylinder. Consequently, it is preferable that there is substantially a common longitudinal central axis of the foundation structure, the transition piece and the structure, in particular of the tower of the construction. Due to the corresponding design of the transition piece with an end region of the construction which is suitable for joining, a simple assembly with simultaneously good introduction of force from the structure into the foundation structure is ensured.

In particular, the transition piece on a flange which is particularly preferably used for releasable connection with a corresponding counterpart of the structure, in particular a tower of the structure. Particularly preferably, the flange is designed as a screw with in particular a plurality of preferably uniformly distributed openings, preferably screw openings. The flange may also be connectable to the structure by other suitable fastening means than screws. Alternatively, a fixed connection, for example by welding into consideration. With the help of the flange, the structure can be easily attached to the site after erection of the foundation structure at the same.

Particularly preferably, several of the plates and / or the wall of the transition piece serve as a boundary of a space enclosed by them, preferably an interior of the transition piece. There may also be additional sheets, plates, grids or the like for limitation. Thus, a space is preferably created within the transition piece, which is useful, for example, for committing or setting up technical units.

A wall, preferably a side surface of the transition piece, particularly preferably has at least one opening, in particular as an access opening. Preferably, the opening is formed sufficiently large, so that it can be walked, for example, by a worker. Particularly preferably, the opening is formed by a likewise accessible door closable. Thus, a central access to the transition piece, in particular to its interior and possibly also to the construction or tower of the offshore structure is provided. In particular, an additional opening, for example in the tower of a mounted wind turbine is no longer absolutely necessary, since this can already be entered from inside the transition piece out.

Particularly preferably, at least one reinforcing plate and / or stiffening plate is provided, which is preferably connected at an angle, in particular at least approximately at right angles, to at least one of the plates, preferably to two of the plates. In particular, the at least one stiffening plate is arranged in an end region of the plate and connected thereto. With the help of at least one stiffening plate, the stability of the plates and thus the transition piece and the entire offshore structure is increased. The at least one stiffening plate is preferably arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis of the foundation structure. Thus, the stiffening plates are preferably arranged in horizontal planes in a vertical installation of the foundation structure, since the plates are preferably arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the foundation structure and thus in vertical installation of the foundation structure substantially in vertical or vertical planes.

Fig. 1

ein Offshore-Bauwerk mit einer Gründungsstruktur, einem Übergangsstück, einer Plattform und einem darauf befestigten Turm,

Fig. 2

eine Gründungsstruktur mit einem Übergangsstück und einer Plattform ohne installierten Aufbau, und

Fig.3

eine Detailansicht eines mit der Gründungsstruktur verbundenen Übergangsstücks.

In the following, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. In the drawing show:

Fig. 1

an offshore structure with a foundation structure, a transition piece, a platform and a tower attached to it,

Fig. 2

a foundation structure with a transition piece and a platform without installed structure, and

Figure 3

a detailed view of a connected to the foundation structure transition piece.

The figures of the drawing show an embodiment of an offshore structure, such as an offshore wind turbine. The offshore structure has a foundation structure 12, which is usually anchored firmly to the seabed. For this purpose, usually not shown foundation piles, which are plugged into likewise not shown pile sleeves at a lower end portion of the foundation structure 10. At the upper end region, the foundation structure 10 has a transition piece 12 which is fixedly connected there to the foundation structure 10. A tower 14 of a wind turbine, not shown here is placed on top of the transition piece 12 and connected thereto. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a platform 16 is additionally arranged on the transition piece 12 such that the tower 14 can be reached from all sides by this platform 16.

The foundation structure 10 is formed as a grid-like support structure. It is also referred to as a "jacket structure". This has four columns 18, which at the four outer Corners of the foundation structure 10 form a square base. The columns 18 converge conically from the lower end region of the foundation structure 10 to its upper end region, on which the transition piece 12 is arranged, so that the foundation structure 10 tapers towards the top, that is, the cross-section decreases. In each case two adjacent columns 18 are interconnected by braces 20 extending at an angle to the columns 18. To stabilize the struts 20 intersect at an almost right angle in the area between two columns 18th

The connection of the transition piece 12 with the foundation structure 10 is particularly well in the representation of Fig. 3 to recognize. The transition piece 12 has a relative to its dimensions comparatively thin, annular or cylindrical wall 22 which extends within the upper end portions 24 of the columns 18. Between the transition piece 12 and the end portions 24 of the columns 18 plates 26 are arranged, which are welded to both the respective end portion 24 of the column 18 and with the wall 22 of the transition piece 12. With each column 18 two plates 26 are connected in the present case. The two plates 26 are aligned substantially parallel to each other. In the usual vertical installation of the foundation structure 10, the orientation of the plates 26 is thus substantially vertical. On the wall 22 of the transition piece 12, the plates 26 are mounted substantially perpendicular to the wall 22 projecting outwardly.

The tubular column 18 has a wall 22. In the end regions 24 of the columns 18 are each two parallel, slot-shaped recesses 28 embedded in the walls 22. Thus, a total of four recesses 28 per column 18 serve to receive two parallel plates 26, each two successively arranged in opposite walls of the column 18 recesses 28 form a pair for receiving a single plate 26 and are substantially identical in orientation and dimensions. In order to achieve a good durability and application of force, each recess 28 is designed for the positive reception of a respective plate 26. To ensure a secure support, the plates 26 protrude laterally and upwardly from the recesses 28 in the present case. But here is also a flush conclusion with the outer wall of the column 18 or a jump back against the same possible.

The recesses 28 are arranged such that they divide the column 18 in cross section into three substantially equal width sections. Again, a different distribution in case of need is easily conceivable. The plates 26 are each in the Recess 28 by welding firmly connected to the column 18. The long circumferential welds ensure great durability.

For further reinforcement and stabilization of the plates 26 additional, not shown here stiffening plates may be provided, which are preferably aligned perpendicular to the plates 26 and fixedly connected to the plates. In particular, these stiffening plates are perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis 52 of the foundation structure, that is aligned substantially horizontally.

For connection to a structure, in the present case with the tower 14 of a wind turbine, the transition piece 12 has a flange 30. This flange 30 is annular, corresponding to the likewise annular or cylindrical basic shape of the wall 22 of the transition piece 12. At the same time corresponds to the flange 30 with a corresponding, not visible in the drawing flange at the bottom of the tower placed thereon 14. For making the connection between the transition piece 12 and the tower 14, the flange 30 is formed as a screw. For this purpose, a plurality of screw holes 32 is inserted into the flange 30, which correspond with corresponding screw holes of the flange of the tower 14 and can be done by the example, a screw.

In the wall 22 of the transition piece 12, an opening 34 is inserted, through which the interior 36 of the transition piece 12 can be entered, for example, by maintenance personnel. The opening 34 can additionally be closed by a door 38. In the interior 36 of the transition piece 12, for example, a technical device not shown here can be arranged. The opening 34 thus serves as access to the interior 36, but possibly also as a central access, for example, to the tower 14.

To stabilize the transition piece 12 12 additional plates 40 are arranged in the interior 36 of the transition piece, which connect the extension of the outside of the transition piece 12 oppositely disposed plates 26 in the interior of the transition piece 12 together. The plates 40 almost cross at the center of the transition piece 12, taking into account a slight offset by the respective parallel spaced plates 40. Alternatively to the inside of the wall 22 of the transition piece 12 additionally welded plates 40 and one-piece, continuous plates 26, 40 may be used, which are the respective Passage 22 on both sides, so that two opposite columns 18 are connected by two continuous, parallel plates 26 with each other. In the intersection region in the interior 36 of the transition piece 12, however, the plates intersect with the plates 26 which are arranged perpendicular to them and connect the respective other pair of columns. Consequently, the plates 26 are to be welded together or arranged one above the other. The plates 26, 40 are all disposed substantially parallel to the common longitudinal central axis 52 of the foundation structure 10, the transition piece 12 and the tower 14.

The flange 30 is placed in the present case as a flat ring on the wall 22 of the transition piece 12 and welded thereto, so that the latter is additionally reinforced. In order to allow easy mounting of the tower 14 or other structure on the flange 30 of the transition piece 12, the platform 16 is located approximately at the level of the flange 30 and slightly below it, as is well in Fig. 2 is recognizable.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tower 14 as an access opening to the tower 14 also has an opening 42 with a door 44 which is accessible from the platform 16 from. For safety reasons, a fencing 46 is also provided at the edge of the platform 16. As access to the platform 16, two conductors 48 are arranged on the foundation structure 10. The ladders terminate in the upper area in the platform 16 and at the lower end of cargo webs 50, which serve as access for the ladders 48 and are arranged approximately at sea level. An additional exit of the conductor 48 may be arranged at the level of the opening 34 in the transition piece 12 to the same directly to the interior, the interior 36 to get. In order to allow accessibility of the interior 36, for example, not shown horizontally extending sheets, plates, grids, grates or ladder designs are provided.

As material for the production of the components of the offshore structure usually metallic materials, in particular steels are used. Preferred joining method for joining the components is welding, but other methods are also possible, provided the strength and stability is ensured.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

foundation structure

12

Transition piece

14

tower

16

platform

18

pillar

20

brace

22

wall

24

end

26

plate

28

recess

30

flange

32

screw opening

34

opening

36

inner space

38

door

40

plate

42

opening

44

door

46

fencing

48

ladder

50

pier

52

Longitudinal central axis

Claims (14)

Offshore structure, in particular offshore wind energy plant, offshore substation or the like, having a foundation structure (10) with columns (18) and having a transition piece (12) for connection to a structure, in particular a plant part of a wind energy plant, a tower (14 ), a substation or the like, characterized in that the columns (18) of the foundation structure (10) are connected to the transition piece (12) of the foundation structure (10) by plates (26). Offshore structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the plates (26) have an at least substantially flat or flat shape. Offshore structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the plates (26) are arranged at least in almost parallel to a longitudinal central axis (52) of the foundation structure (10) and / or to a longitudinal central axis of the transition piece (12) extending planes, wherein the longitudinal center axes of the foundation structure (10) and the transition piece (12) are preferably parallel, in particular identical. Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the columns (18), in particular all columns (18), preferably with an end region (24) with at least one, preferably with two plates (26) are connected. Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective plate (26) in particular in at least one preferably slot-shaped recess (28) of the column (18) is inserted, wherein in a tubular formation of the column (18) for receiving a single plate (26) corresponding recesses in opposite side surfaces of the column (18) are arranged and / or wherein the recess (28) is preferably at least substantially positive fit to the plate (26) and / or wherein a plurality of recesses (28) for different Plates (26) in a column (18) are preferably arranged symmetrically to the longitudinal center axis of the column (18) and / or wherein the recess (28) preferably at least almost over the entire circumference of the plate (26). Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of plates (26) are preferably connected to the same column (18), wherein a plurality, preferably in each case two of the plates (26) are arranged at least substantially parallel to each other. Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two of the plates (26) are arranged at an angle, preferably at least approximately at right angles to each other, wherein the plates (26) preferably intersect at least in an imaginary cutting axis, the cutting axis being particularly preferred is arranged parallel to and / or in the vicinity of the longitudinal central axis (52) of the foundation structure (10). Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transition piece (12) and / or in particular a wall (22) thereof has a basic shape which corresponds to the shape of a cylinder, in particular a hollow cylinder. Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at the transition piece (12) and / or on the wall (22) in particular laterally projecting the plates (26) are arranged and / or that the plates (26) has a flat side edge or Side face for connection to the transition piece (12). Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an end-side cross-sectional area of the transition piece (12) at least substantially with an end-side cross-sectional area, in particular a tower (14) of the structure corresponds, wherein the longitudinal center axis of the transition piece (12) preferably at least in Substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis (52) of the foundation structure (10). Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transition piece (12) has a flange (30), in particular a screw, for releasably releasable connection with a corresponding counterpart of the structure, in particular a tower (14). Offshore structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of plates (26) and / or the wall (22) of the transition piece (12) serve as a boundary of at least one of them enclosed space, preferably an interior (36), preferably for example suitable for the inspection and / or installation of technical equipment. Offshore construction according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a wall (22) and / or a side surface of the transition piece (12) has at least one opening (34) preferably as an access opening, wherein the opening (34) preferably by a walk-in door (38) is lockable. Offshore construction according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one stiffening plate is provided which is preferably angularly, more preferably at least approximately at right angles to at least one of the plates (26), preferably connected to two of the plates (26), wherein the at least one stiffening plate is arranged in particular in an end region of the plate (26) and / or wherein the at least one stiffening plate is preferably arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis (52) of the foundation structure (10).

Images