EP4211029A1

EP4211029A1 - Floating offshore structure

Info

Publication number: EP4211029A1
Application number: EP21763047.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jörn Runge
Original assignee: Rwe Offshore Wind GmbH
Current assignee: Rwe Offshore Wind GmbH
Priority date: 2020-09-08
Filing date: 2021-08-13
Publication date: 2023-07-19
Also published as: WO2022053259A1; KR20230070234A; JP2023551350A; AU2021340152A1; US20230192241A1; DE102020123374A1

Abstract

The invention 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), at least one floating body (106, 206, 306, 506, 606), and at least one anchor assembly (108, 208, 508) designed to secure the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) to an underwater floor (116, 216, 316, 516, 616) in an anchored state of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), said anchor assembly (108, 208, 508) comprising at least one anchor connection (109, 209, 509) which runs between an anchor (110, 210, 510) and the floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604), and at least one position stabilizing device (112, 212, 512, 612) designed 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 on the basis of at least one position parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) and at least one target position parameter.

Description

Floating offshore structure

The application relates to a buoyant offshore structure, in particular a buoyant offshore wind turbine, comprising at least one buoyant foundation, comprising at least one floating body, and at least one anchoring arrangement, set up for fastening the offshore structure to an underwater bed in an anchored state of the offshore structure, wherein the anchorage arrangement comprises at least one anchor connection extending between an anchor and the buoyant foundation. In addition, the application concerns an offshore system, a method and an offshore set.

Wind energy systems or wind farms with at least one wind turbine are increasingly being used to provide electrical energy from so-called renewable energy sources. A wind power plant is set up in particular to convert the kinetic wind energy into electrical energy.

In order to increase the energy yield in such systems, wind farms are increasingly being arranged at locations with a high probability of wind. Offshore locations in particular are usually characterized by relatively continuous wind conditions and high average wind speeds, so that so-called offshore wind energy systems or offshore wind farms are increasingly being erected.

As a rule, an offshore wind farm has a large number of offshore structures, such as a large number of offshore wind turbines and at least one offshore transformer station, via which the offshore wind farm is electrically connected, for example to an onshore transformer station or another offshore transformer station or offshore converter station, is connected. An onshore substation, in turn, can be connected to a public power grid. Energy 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.

While it has hitherto been customary for offshore wind turbines and offshore substations, but also for other offshore structures such as platforms for gas or oil exploration, these are supported by a foundation structure (e.g. monopile, tripod, tripile or jacket foundations ) to anchor on or in the underwater soil, in particular a seabed, there are increasing considerations to install floating offshore structures, such as floating offshore wind turbines, especially in areas with a great water depth, for example more than 150 m To install offshore structures, especially offshore wind farms.

A buoyant or floating offshore structure has at least one buoyant foundation with at least one floating body. A device such as a platform, transformer device, wind power device, etc. may be installed on the buoyant foundation.

For (permanent) stationary operation of the offshore structure, it is fastened to the underwater floor (usually a sea floor) by at least one anchoring arrangement. The at least one anchoring arrangement is set up to fasten the offshore structure to an underwater bed when the offshore wind turbine is in an anchored state. For this purpose, the anchoring arrangement has at least one anchor connection running between an anchor, which is at least partially buried in the underwater bed, and the buoyant foundation. Due to the floating configuration of such an offshore structure, the offshore structure can be moved by wind and/or waves. In particular, a considerable (periodic) tilting movement can occur in the case of floating offshore structures, in particular in the direction of the main wind and/or the direction of the main waves. In order to prevent damage in particular to the offshore device arranged on the buoyant foundation, the prior art involves a complex design of the buoyant foundation and, in particular, a relatively deep vertical positioning of an offshore structure during installation.

In particular, the relatively deep vertical positioning of an offshore structure during installation means that the power output from an offshore

Wind turbine, especially at low wind speeds, is reduced because the wind speeds are usually greater at higher altitudes.

In addition, even at medium wind speeds and/or medium wave heights, there is a tilting or swaying movement, which makes it at least considerably more difficult for an aircraft or watercraft to land on the offshore structure. Possibly even landing is not possible.

The application is therefore based on the object of providing an offshore structure in which the disadvantages of the prior art are at least reduced and, in particular, it is possible to land on the offshore structure even under unfavorable meteorological conditions.

According to a first aspect of the application, the object is achieved by a buoyant offshore structure, in particular a buoyant offshore wind turbine, according to claim 1. The offshore structure comprises at least one buoyant foundation, comprising at least one float. The offshore structure includes at least one anchoring arrangement configured to attach the offshore structure to an underwater bed in a Anchoring condition of the offshore structure. The anchoring arrangement comprises at least one anchor connection running between an anchor and the buoyant foundation. The offshore structure includes at least one position stabilization device, set up to change the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation in the anchored state, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure and at least one target position parameter.

In contrast to the prior art, a buoyant offshore structure is provided according to the application, in which the disadvantages of the prior art are at least reduced by having a position stabilization device that adjusts the position of the floating offshore structure by changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation. In particular, landing on the offshore structure can at least be made easier by changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation, in particular by shortening or lengthening it at least during the landing process. It has been recognized that in this way the tilting or swaying movement of an offshore structure can at least be reduced.

In a preferred offshore buoyant wind turbine, it is also possible to increase the power output by changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation.

The offshore structure according to the application is a buoyant offshore structure, such as an offshore wind turbine, an offshore substation, an offshore platform for gas or oil exploration and the like. An offshore structure includes at least one floatable foundation on which, in particular, an offshore device can be arranged. In a preferred embodiment, the offshore structure is an offshore

wind turbine. On the at least one foundation of an offshore wind power plant, a wind power device is arranged, in particular as an offshore device, comprising a tower, nacelle, rotor, generator, etc.

The at least one floating foundation comprises at least one floating body. A floating body or buoyant body is able to float independently, in particular due to its buoyancy by displacement according to the Archimedean principle. For example, floats can be hollow and filled with air or with a light solid. In particular, the buoyant foundation can essentially form the floating body.

The buoyant foundation can preferably be a so-called barge foundation, semi-submersible foundation, spar foundation and/or tension leg platform (TLP) foundation. It goes without saying that other types of buoyant foundations can also be provided in other variants of the application.

According to the application, a buoyant foundation is fastened or anchored to the underwater bed via at least one anchoring arrangement. In particular, a plurality (e.g. three or four) of anchoring arrangements may be provided for attachment.

An anchoring arrangement according to the application comprises an anchor connection, in particular in the form of an anchor cable or an anchor chain. One end of the anchor connection is attached to the foundation and the other end to at least one anchor (e.g. weight anchor, torpedo anchor, etc.). The anchor may be at least partially buried in the underwater bed.

The state in which the foundation and thus the offshore structure are fastened to the underwater bed by means of the at least one anchoring arrangement is present in particular anchoring condition of the foundation or the

called offshore wind turbine.

According to the application, it has been recognized that critical positions of the offshore structure, in which there is at least a risk of damage to the offshore structure, can at least be reduced if a possibility is created to change the length of an anchor connection of an anchoring arrangement in the anchored state, i.e. in the intended state Operation of the offshore structure.

In particular, by shortening (but possibly also by lengthening) the length, a tilting or swaying movement of the offshore structure is at least reduced in comparison to a longer length (or shorter length).

In order to change the length, it is proposed according to the application to provide a position stabilization device. This can be arranged at least partially in and/or on the buoyant foundation. In the case of variants of the application, this can also be arranged at least partially in the offshore device, such as a tower of an offshore wind turbine.

According to the application, the at least one position stabilization device is set up to change the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation (in particular the point at which the anchor connection reaches the foundation) in the anchoring state, based on at least one (providable) position parameter of the offshore structure and at least one (predetermined) target position parameter.

In the present case, a position parameter (value) of the offshore structure is in particular a position parameter that directly and indirectly describes the (current and/or predicted future) vertical position and/or horizontal position of the offshore structure. The at least one target position parameter specifies in particular a vertical position and/or horizontal position of the offshore structure to be set. In particular, two or more position parameters and/or (corresponding to the position parameters) two or more position setpoint parameters can be provided. A plurality of different position parameters, for example in the form of a position parameter data set, and a corresponding plurality of (predetermined) position target parameters, for example in the form of a corresponding position target parameter data set, can preferably be provided.

The position stabilization device can preferably include at least one control module set up to control the changing of the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation, based on the at least one position parameter of the offshore structure and at least one target position parameter. For example, the control module can be provided with at least one suitable controller.

This means in particular that the length is changed in such a way that the (instantaneous and/or predicted future) position parameter (substantially) corresponds to the position setpoint parameter, and any difference that may be present is minimized.

In the event that the position setpoint parameter is a limit value of an impermissible or permissible position range, it can be provided in variants of the application that the length is changed in such a way that the (current and/or predicted future) position parameter is at least in the permissible position range, i.e. does not exceed (or fall below) the position setpoint (limit) parameter.

According to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, the position stabilization device can comprise at least one winch device coupled to the anchor connection. The winch device can be arranged to change the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation. In particular, the winch device comprises a substantially cylindrical and rotatable drum. In the present context, coupled means in particular that the at least one anchor connection in the form of an anchor cable or an anchor chain can be wound up and unwound on the drum (in particular between a minimum and maximum length). One end of the articulated connection can be firmly attached to the drum or another attachment point of the winch device.

The winch device can preferably include at least one controllable and motor-based drive, in particular an electric motor that can be supplied with electrical energy from the offshore structure. In particular, the drive can be controlled by the control module in such a way that the length is changed in such a way that the at least one (current and/or predicted future) position parameter (substantially) corresponds to the at least one position setpoint parameter or is at least in the permissible position range.

According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, the winch device can comprise at least one parking brake. The parking brake may be releasable (and lockable once changed) to change the length of the anchor linkage. If the length of the anchor connection is to be changed, the control module can, for example, activate the parking brake so that it is released. The length of the anchor connection can then be changed, in particular by the drive, as has been described. The parking brake can then be locked (again) either automatically or by being activated again, e.g. by the control module. The load on the drive can be reduced as a result.

The at least one position parameter can be provided to the position stabilization device by a device not included in the offshore structure. In addition, according to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, the offshore structure can comprise at least one position detection device, set up to detect the at least one Location parameters of the offshore structure. In other words, in this embodiment the offshore structure, in particular an actual position parameter of the offshore structure, can be determined by the position detection device itself. In particular, a winch device or another device (e.g. ballast medium conveyor arrangement, lifting device), in particular the at least one drive, can be activated as a function of a difference between the detected position parameter or actual position parameter and the (specified) position setpoint parameter.

The at least one position parameter can in particular be at least one position angle (also called Euler angle) of the offshore structure. The at least one position parameter can be, for example, a yaw angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure and the vertical axis (also called the z-axis)), a roll angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure and a longitudinal axis (also called the x-axis). called)) and/or a heave or pitch angle (angle between the current alignment of the offshore structure and a longitudinal axis (also called the y-axis)).

The position detection device can preferably be a tilt angle detection device set up to detect the tilt angle of the offshore structure. The tilt angle is based in particular on. a vertical axis or directional (maximum) angles (in a reversal position) in a tilting or swaying movement of the offshore structure. For example, a (maximum) tilt angle, preferably a permissible tilt angle range, can be provided as the position setpoint parameter. If the actual tilting angle is outside the permissible tilting angle range, in particular the length can be changed (in particular for so long) that (until) the detected tilting angle is again in the permissible range.

Alternatively or additionally, the position detection device

Be sweep frequency detection device, set up to detect the sweep frequency of the offshore structure. It goes without saying that the detection of the tilt frequency includes a detection of the tilt period duration. Regulation can be carried out analogously to the explanations regarding the tilt angle.

In a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, at least a first selectable position oil parameter can be provided for a first (desired) position of the offshore structure and a second selectable position setpoint parameter for a second (desired) position of the offshore structure. The first positional state can differ from the second positional state.

A first situation can be, for example, a (normal) operating situation and a second situation can be a landing situation. During normal operation, a stronger tilting or swaying movement can be permissible (corresponding to a predefined first position state or first desired position parameter (data set)). In the case of a landing process, on the other hand, only a slight tilting or swaying movement can be permissible (corresponding to a predetermined second position state or second position setpoint parameter (data set)). In particular, the respective at least one target position parameter can be selected (for example by the user who wants to land) and in particular can be specified for the control module.

In further variants of the application, further or other selectable target position parameters can be provided for further or other position states. For example, a maintenance status can be provided with at least one corresponding target position parameter that can be selected (after a landing) for a maintenance operation.

For example, it can be provided that at least one minimum position setpoint parameter (data record) is stored locally in an offshore structure. This can ensure that a certain minimum stable position (or condition) of the offshore structure is always maintained. The actual position of the offshore structure can then be be set within the permissible range, in particular in such a way (in the case of offshore wind turbines) that the energy yield of the offshore wind farm is maximized.

According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, at least one vertical anchor connection running essentially in the vertical direction can be fastened to the buoyant foundation. At least one angle anchor connection running at an angle to the vertical direction of at least 2°, preferably at least 5° (and at most 45°) can be attached to the floating foundation. The position stabilization device can be set up to change the length of the vertical anchor connection and/or the angle anchor connection, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure. In particular depending on the at least one position parameter and the at least one position setpoint parameter, it can be advantageous if the respective length of the

Vertical anchor connection(s) and the angle anchor connection(s) can be changed differently.

In particular, if the vertical plane in which the angle of the angle anchor connection lies to the vertical direction (vertical axis) extends in a direction parallel to the prevailing wind direction and/or main wave direction (or within a range of ±20°) (and in particular the anchor of this angle anchor connection itself located on the side hitting the wind and/or waves), it can be specified in particular by the at least one target position parameter that the anchor connection of the said angle anchor connection is shortened more (e.g. 2 to 10 m more) than the at least one vertical anchor connection, in particular in such a way that without wind and waves, there would be a tilt in the direction of the main wind direction and/or main wave direction. In addition or as an alternative, it could be provided that the length of at least one further angle anchor connection, in which the anchor is located on the side facing away from the wind and/or waves, is left unchanged or lengthened so that without wind and waves there would be a tilt in the direction of the main wind direction and/or main wave direction.

As has already been described, the position parameter (and position setpoint parameter) can be a position parameter directly indicating the position of the offshore structure, like the position parameters previously described. Alternatively or additionally, the position parameter can be a parameter from which the (probable) (instantaneous and/or predicted) position of the offshore structure can be inferred. In particular, these position parameters can be position parameters that directly influence the position of the offshore structure. According to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, the location parameter can be a meteorological environment parameter (from which the actual current or future location parameter can be determined). The at least one meteorological environmental parameter can be selected from the. Group comprising: - wind direction (measured or forecast), - wind force (measured or forecast), - wave height (measured or forecast), - wave direction (measured or forecast).

These meteorological environmental parameters are particularly relevant for the location of an offshore structure.

In particular, it has been recognized that the aforementioned meteorological environmental parameters can influence the tilting angle (and thus the tilting movement) of the buoyant offshore structure. For example, in the case of a (instantaneous or predicted) swell or a wave height above a certain corresponding position parameter target value (eg limit value with xm wave height), the length can be changed. It would be conceivable to increase the length in order to raise the offshore structure in such a way that the waves can roll under the structure. Also it would be conceivable to shorten the length to the location improved by increasing the depth of the floating foundation. This allows the tilt angle to be reduced. This in turn can increase the power yield.

Preferably, at least two, preferably all, of the mentioned meteorological environmental parameters can be determined and in particular made available. In particular, this at least one location parameter can be provided by at least one meteorological measuring device (e.g. measuring mast) of the offshore wind farm and/or a meteorological service. For more . Variants of the registration can, alternatively or additionally, provide at least one further meteorological environmental parameter (e.g. precipitation, solar radiation, etc.).

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

If two or more foundations or foundation elements are provided, each foundation can have a ballast tank. The at least one ballast tank can be arranged in particular in such a way that filling/emptying leads to a specific vertical and/or horizontal orientation of the foundation. In the case of a plurality of ballast tanks, the filling/emptying can in particular be controlled so that the at least two ballast tanks can be filled/emptied in a specific manner.

The attitude stabilization device can have at least one

Ballast medium conveying arrangement comprise, set up for changing the Level of the ballast tank, in particular to stabilize the position of the offshore structure.

The ballast medium conveying arrangement can be arranged in or on the foundation. A change in the fill level changes, in particular, a vertical distance from the water line or from the underwater bottom surface. This allows the position of the offshore structure to be stabilized. In this embodiment, a target position parameter may be a target fill level (e.g., full, half full, empty, x liters, etc.). The ballast medium conveying arrangement can change the filling level of the ballast tank in accordance with a predetermined position setpoint parameter of this type in order to change the said vertical distance.

Particularly preferably, the ballast medium conveying arrangement can comprise at least one pumping device configured to change the level of the ballast tank by actively conveying the ballast medium into the ballast tank and/or by actively conveying the ballast medium out of the ballast tank. In particular, if an active delivery of the ballast medium out of the ballast tank is provided, filling can take place passively by opening a tank opening. In particular, if active delivery of the ballast medium into the ballast tank is provided, emptying can take place passively by opening a tank opening. Preferably, however, at least one pump device can be provided both for filling and for emptying.

The setting of a specific fill level can be controlled or regulated by the control module. A level measuring element can be used to monitor the level. As a result, a predefined target position parameter can be set in a reliable manner in the form of a target filling quantity.

Alternatively or additionally, according to a further embodiment of the offshore structure according to the application, the position stabilization device can have at least one connected to the floatable foundation Weight arrangement comprising, which is changeable at least between a lowered state on the underwater bottom surface and a raised state from the underwater bottom surface, for example by a suitable lifting device.

In particular, the weight arrangement may include a weight connection (e.g. an anchor cable and/or anchor chain) which may be connected to the foundation. The other end of the weight connection can be connected to a weight element of the weight assembly. In a lowered state, the weight element can at least be placed or lowered on the underwater floor surface. In this state, in particular almost no weight can be exerted on the foundation by the at least one weight element of the weight arrangement.

In a lifted state, the weight element can be lifted off the underwater bottom surface, that is to say no longer (almost) contact it. In this state, in particular, a weight force (corresponding to the weight of the weight element of the weight arrangement) is exerted on the foundation by the at least one weight element of the weight arrangement. An adjustment between the stated states can bring about a change in the stated vertical distance and thereby (positively) influence the position of the offshore device.

Particularly in the event that a ballast tank as described above is/are provided with a ballast conveyor arrangement and/or a weight arrangement as described above, according to a preferred embodiment of the offshore structure, the position stabilization device can comprise at least one tracking module, set up for tracking the anchor connection (i.e. changing the length of the anchor connection), in particular with a change in the vertical distance between an underwater bottom surface and the underwater bottom the buoyant foundation (or between the foundation and the water line or water surface).

In order to prevent a desired (minimum and/or maximum) voltage between anchor and foundation from being undershot or exceeded, each anchor connection can in particular be coupled to a tracking module in order to track the anchor connection accordingly. In other variants, a tracking device can also be dispensed with.

The at least one target position parameter can also be determined in such a way that the power output is increased, in particular without the offshore structure being able to get into an impermissible position. As has been described, at least one minimum target position parameter can be specified, for example. The actual position of the offshore structure can then be set within the permissible range, in particular in such a way (in the case of offshore wind turbines) that the energy yield of the offshore wind farm is maximized.

Another aspect of the application is an offshore system, in particular an offshore wind farm. The offshore system includes a plurality of offshore structures described above. The offshore system includes at least one control device set up to specify at least one position setpoint parameter for the plurality of offshore structures.

In particular, in an offshore wind farm, it can be provided that the plurality of offshore wind power plants are at least partially different

Position setpoint parameters can be specified. The target position parameters can in particular be determined in such a way that on the one hand they ensure a (specified) sufficiently safe and stable position and on the other hand they increase the total energy yield of the offshore wind farm. In particular, a (central) control device (eg implemented as a software module in a central control of the offshore wind farm) can be provided. The plurality of offshore wind power plants can be controlled via a communication network, for example by transmitting at least one control command containing at least one (previously described) target position parameter.

According to a preferred embodiment of the offshore wind farm according to the application, the position setpoint parameters can also be derived from the. Depend position of a first offshore wind turbine in relation to at least one other offshore wind turbine of the offshore wind farm. In other words, a target position parameter can then be dependent on the parking position.

The position setpoint parameter used when controlling a specific offshore wind power plant can preferably depend on the position of this offshore wind power plant within the offshore wind farm. For example, each offshore wind turbine can be associated with a park position attribute (e.g., a geographical indication of the offshore wind turbine, an indication of which row the offshore wind turbine is located in with respect to a particular direction (e.g., prevailing wind direction), and/or the like). . For example, the plant identifier of the offshore wind turbine together with the at least one

park position attribute (indicating a park position) may be stored in a data storage arrangement accessible by the controller.

In particular, it has been recognized that the electrical energy yield can be reduced if an offshore wind turbine is in the lee of another offshore wind turbine at a certain meteorological

Ambient condition is. By taking into account the respective parking position of an offshore wind turbine in accordance with the application, the energy yield, in particular in addition to ensuring a sufficiently safe location, be increased. For example, for two offshore wind turbines arranged one behind the other (seen in the current or predicted main wind direction), different vertical distances can be set by corresponding position setpoint parameters and thus hub heights. As a result, the total yield of these two offshore wind turbines can be increased.

According to a further embodiment of the offshore system according to the application, in particular wind farms, at least a first meteorological environmental condition and a second meteorological environmental condition that differs from the first environmental condition can be specified. A meteorological environmental condition (or criterion) includes in particular at least one meteorological environmental parameter range. During the evaluation, it can be checked whether a provided (previously described) meteorological environmental parameter is in the at least one environmental parameter range or not. In other words, it can be checked whether the at least one meteorological environmental parameter (value) satisfies the at least one environmental condition or not.

A target position parameter can be assigned (precisely) to each offshore wind turbine (or the corresponding system identifier) in particular for each ambient condition in an assignment table (selectable target position parameters can also be provided for special situations, as described above). As stated, the target position parameters can depend on the parking position or the respective parking position attribute (and additionally specify a minimum level of stable position). In particular, the allocation table can be stored in the data storage arrangement.

When a specific meteorological environmental condition is detected

(especially when detecting a changed meteorological

Ambient condition (e.g. from the first to the second meteorological Ambient condition or vice versa)), the control device can access the stored assignment table and, in particular, control at least some of the offshore wind turbines of the offshore wind farm, preferably all offshore wind turbines of the offshore wind farm, according to the respectively stored setpoint parameters.

The set position parameters that can be used for control can be determined in advance. In the present case, a preliminary determination means in particular that the target position parameters, in particular in the form of target altitude values, are not only determined when a specific meteorological environmental condition is detected (in particular when a changed meteorological environmental condition is detected (e.g. from the first to the second meteorological environmental condition or vice versa)). , but earlier in time.

In particular before the installation of the offshore wind farm (e.g. with the help of a simulation model) and/or immediately after the installation (e.g. by tests) the plurality of target position parameters can be determined.

Preferably, the target position parameters can be stored variably, so that in particular an optimization can take place during operation of the offshore wind farm, in particular by evaluating the actual power yield (compared, for example, with a power yield determined by a simulation process).

According to a further embodiment of the offshore wind farm according to the application, the majority of the offshore wind turbines can be divided into at least a first subgroup of offshore wind turbines each with the same first park position attribute (corresponding to the respective park position, as explained above) and a second subgroup of offshore - Wind turbines with the same second park position attribute (corresponding to the respective park position, as explained above) can be divided. The control device can be set up to control the first subgroup of offshore Wind turbines with target position parameters that differ from the target position parameters with which a second subgroup of offshore wind turbines is controlled. It goes without saying that a division into three or more subgroups can take place. The classification can be (inherently) mapped in the allocation table mentioned. It goes without saying that the actuation takes place in particular when a specific environmental condition is detected. In addition, the classification may depend on the environmental condition. In other words, a dynamic (rather than static) division into subgroups can be made.

A classification or height adjustment strategy (which can be depicted and is preferred in the at least one assignment table) can preferably be to always raise the first row of offshore wind turbines (seen in the wind direction) to a maximum height at which a sufficiently stable position is still ensured is. The second row can be adjusted to the minimum height and then the third row to the maximum height again, etc. It would also be conceivable to always move the first row of offshore wind turbines (seen downwind) to a minimum height, the second row to the maximum height and then again the third row to the minimum height and so on.

If further intermediate heights and/or a continuous adjustment of the distance or the heights are possible, other classification or height adjustment strategies can also be provided and in particular mapped in an allocation table or database.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the offshore wind farm according to the application, the offshore wind farm can include at least one position setpoint determination device, set up for (in advance) determining the position setpoint parameters (to be used for control, in particular in the form of height setpoints) for controlling the plurality of offshore wind turbines at least one measured or forecast meteorological environmental condition. The. The position setpoint determination device can be set up to carry out a number of simulation steps, based in particular on a simulation model of the number of wind turbines in the offshore wind farm.

In particular, a (mathematical) simulation model of the offshore wind farm can be created during planning and before installation, with which at least the total electrical power generated can be simulated under different meteorological environmental conditions and in particular with differently set vertical distances. It can also be simulated which maximum or minimum height can be set without damage occurring, for example due to the tilting movement. In this way, in particular, the at least one minimum position target parameter can be determined. For other variants, the

Set position setpoint determination device alternatively or additionally to carry out tests.

In each simulation step (or test step), different target position values can preferably be set for the plurality of offshore wind turbines and the total electrical power generated in each case for the target position values can be determined. For example, the previously mentioned adjustment strategies can be simulated.

As position setpoints for (actual) controlling the majority of offshore wind turbines in a specific meteorological environmental condition, the position setpoints can be determined (and in particular stored in the assignment table) at which the specific (simulated or tested) generated total electrical power is maximum (and a sufficient stability of the respective offshore wind turbines is guaranteed). In other words, the respective position setpoint values can be determined for preferably at least two different meteorological environmental conditions by means of a simulation process (with a plurality of simulation steps), in which at least the simulated (or tested) total electrical power generated is maximized.

An optimization process can preferably be carried out during operation of the offshore wind farm. In particular, the total electrical power actually generated and the simulated (or tested) total electrical power generated can be evaluated. In particular, if the total electrical power actually generated is lower than the simulated total electrical power generated (for example using artificial intelligence), the position setpoint values can be at least partially adjusted in order to increase the yield. Historical data and/or data from other offshore wind farms can be taken into account here.

A further aspect of the application is a method for stabilizing the position of a buoyant offshore structure, in particular a previously described buoyant offshore structure, the offshore structure comprising at least one anchoring arrangement set up to fasten the offshore structure to an underwater bed in an anchored state of the offshore structure, wherein the anchoring arrangement comprises at least one anchor connection running between an anchor and the floating foundation. The procedure includes:

providing at least one target position parameter and at least one position parameter of the offshore structure, and

Changing the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation in the anchored state based on the

Position parameters of the offshore structure and the target position parameter.

The method can be used in particular to operate, in particular to control, a plurality of buoyant offshore wind turbines, ie in particular for operating, in particular controlling, an offshore wind farm as described above.

Yet another aspect of the application is a buoyant offshore set, comprising: - at least one buoyant foundation for an offshore structure, in particular an offshore structure as described above, - at least one anchoring arrangement with at least one anchor connection that can be fastened to the buoyant foundation, and - at least one position stabilization device in the form of a winch device that can be coupled to the anchor connection, set up for winding and/or unwinding an anchor connection coupled to the winch device, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure and at least one target position parameter.

It should be noted that a module, a device etc. can be formed at least partially by software elements (in particular in the form of computer code executable by a processor) and/or at least partially by hardware elements (processor, storage means, actuator etc.).

The features of offshore structures, offshore systems (particularly offshore wind farms), processes and offshore sets can be freely combined with one another. In particular, features of the description and/or the dependent claims, even if features of the independent claims are completely or partially bypassed, can be independently inventive on their own or freely combined with one another.

There are now a large number of possibilities for designing and further developing the offshore structure according to the application, the offshore system according to the application, the method according to the application and the offshore set according to the application. On the one hand, reference is made to the independent Patent claims subordinate to patent claims, on the other hand to the description of exemplary embodiments in connection with the drawing. In the

Drawing shows:

1a shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application,

1b shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application,

1c shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application,

1d shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application,

2 shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application,

3 shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application,

4 shows an exemplary tilting movement of a buoyant offshore structure plotted over time, 5a shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application with a first set distance,

5b shows a schematic view of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 5a with a further set distance,

6a shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure according to the present application with a first set distance,

6b shows a schematic view of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 6a with a further set distance,

7 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of an offshore system according to the present application, and

8 is a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application.

In the figures, the same reference numbers are used for the same elements.

Figures la to ld show schematic views of embodiments of buoyant offshore structures 100 according to the present application.

Offshore wind turbines 100 are shown as offshore structures 100 by way of example. However, the following explanations can be transferred to other offshore structures.

The offshore wind turbines 100 shown differ in the respective buoyant foundations 104, each comprising at least one Floating body 106. In particular, a buoyant foundation 104 at least essentially forms the floating body 106.

A barge foundation 104 (FIG. 1a), a semi-submersible foundation 104 (FIG. 1b), a spar foundation 104 (FIG. 1c) and a tension leg platform foundation 104 (FIG. 1d) are shown in particular. It goes without saying that other buoyant foundations can be provided in other variants of the application.

As can be seen, a wind power device 102, comprising a tower, nacelle, rotor, generator, etc., is arranged on the at least one buoyant foundation 104.

In the present case, a floating foundation 104 is fastened or anchored to the underwater bed 116 via a plurality of anchoring arrangements 108 . An illustrated anchoring arrangement 108 has an anchor connection 109, in particular in the form of an anchor cable 109 or an anchor chain 109. One end of the anchor connection 109 is attached to the foundation 104 and the other end to at least one anchor 110 (e.g. weight anchor, torpedo anchor, etc.). The anchor 100 can be at least partially buried in the underwater floor 116, as can be seen from FIGS.

Furthermore, in FIGS. 1 a to 1 d , the underwater ground surface is denoted by reference numeral 118 and the water surface or water line is denoted by reference numeral 114 .

In addition, an offshore structure 100 according to the application comprises at least one position stabilization device 112, set up to change the length 111, 113, 115 of an anchor connection 109 between the anchor 110 and the buoyant foundation 104 in the (represented) anchored state, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure 100 and at least one target position parameter. As can be seen, the length 111 , 113 , 115 here runs from the point of attachment of the anchor connection 109 to the anchor 110 and the point at which the anchor connection 109 enters the foundation 104 .

A plurality of different position parameters, e.g. in the form of a position parameter data set, and a corresponding plurality of (specified) position setpoint parameters, e.g. in the form of a corresponding position setpoint parameter data set, can preferably be provided.

The position stabilization device 112 can preferably include at least one control module set up to control the changing of the length 111, 113, 115 of the anchor connection 109 between the anchor 110 and the buoyant foundation 104, based on the at least one position parameter of the offshore structure 100 and at least one target position parameter . This means in particular that at least one of the lengths 111, 113, 115 is changed in such a way that the (instantaneous and/or predicted future) position parameter (substantially) corresponds to the position setpoint parameter. In the event that the at least one target position parameter is a limit value of an inadmissible position range, variants of the application can provide for at least one of the lengths 111, 113, 115 to be changed in such a way that the (current and/or predicted future) position parameter at least is in the permissible position range, i.e. does not exceed (or fall below) the position setpoint (limit) parameter.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure 200 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences from the previous exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 1a to 1d are described. Otherwise, reference is made to the previous statements. The offshore structure 200 includes a position stabilization device 212. In the present case, the position 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. In particular, each anchoring arrangement 208.1, 208.2, 208.3 can be assigned a winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3. Each anchor connection 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 can preferably be coupled to a respective winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3. In particular, an anchor link 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 may be coupled to a cylindrical drum (winch) of a winch assembly 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 for winding and unwinding the anchor link 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 between a minimum and a maximum length.

Each winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 can have a drive 226 and a parking brake 221 for this purpose. To change a length 211, 213, 215, a control module 228 of the position stabilization device 212 can first control the corresponding parking brake 221 in order to cause this parking brake 221 to be released. The control module 228 can then control the appropriate drive 226 (preferably an electric motor 226) to cause winding or unwinding by a certain length. The parking brake can then be locked again, controlled by the control module 228.

At least one target position parameter (value), preferably a set of target position parameters, can be provided to the control module 228 via an input 230 . Correspondingly, at least one position parameter (value), in particular a position parameter set, of the offshore structure 200 can be provided. For example, an actual location parameter can be provided. The control module 228 can then change the length 211, 213, 215 of at least one anchoring arrangement 208.1, 208.2, 208.3 in such a way that the at least one target position parameter is met by the at least one actual position parameter.

In FIG. 2, reference number 234 denotes the (current) main wind direction and reference number 232 the (current) Main shaft direction (usually these directions 232, 234 can be almost identical).

As can also be seen from FIG. 2, at least one vertical anchor connection 209.2 running essentially in the vertical direction can be fastened to the buoyant foundation 204. At least one angle anchor connection 208.1, 208.3 running at an angle 229 to the vertical direction of at least 2°, preferably at least 5° (and at most 45°), can be fastened to the floating foundation 204. The position stabilization device 212 can be set up to change the length of the vertical anchor connection 208.2 and/or the angle anchor connection 208.1, 208.3, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure 200. Depending on the at least one position parameter and the at least one target position parameter, it can be advantageous if the respective lengths of the vertical anchor connection 208.2 and the at least one angle anchor connection 208.1, 208.3 can be changed differently.

In particular, if the vertical plane in which the angle 229 of the angle anchor connection 208.1, 208.3 lies to the vertical direction extends in a direction parallel (±20°) to the main wind direction (±20°) and/or main wave direction (±20°) and in particular the anchor 210 of this angled anchor connection 208.1 is on the wind and/or wave impact side, it can be specified in particular by the at least one target position parameter that the anchor connection of said angled anchor connection 208.1 is shortened more (e.g. 2 to 10 m more) than the at least one Vertical anchor connection 208.2, in particular such that without wind and waves there would be an inclination in the direction of the main wind direction 234 and/or main wave direction 232. In addition or as an alternative, it can be provided that at least one further angle anchor connection 208.3, in which the anchor 210 is located on the side facing away from the wind and/or waves, is left unchanged or is extended, so that without wind and waves, there would be an inclination in the direction of the main wind direction 234 and/or main wave direction 232.

As can also be seen from Figure 2, an offshore set is provided, in particular, comprising at least one buoyant foundation 204 for an offshore structure 200, at least one anchoring arrangement 208 with at least one anchor connection 209 that can be fastened to the buoyant foundation 204, and at least one position stabilization device 212 in the form of a winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3 that can be coupled to the anchor connection, set up for winding and/or unwinding an anchor connection 209.1, 209.2, 209.3 that is coupled to the winch device 224.1, 224.2, 224.3, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure 200 and at least one target position parameter.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic view of a further exemplary embodiment of an offshore structure 300 according to the present application. In order to avoid repetition, essentially only the differences from the previous exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 1a to 2 are described below and otherwise reference is made to the previous explanations. It should be noted that the entire offshore device, anchoring arrangements, control modules, etc. were not shown for the sake of a better overview.

In particular, a tilting or swaying movement (indicated by the arrow 338) of the floating offshore structure 300 is indicated in FIG. In the dashed version, the offshore structure 300 is shown at the reversal point of the tilting movement, ie when the tilting angle 342 is at its maximum. In addition, the offshore structure 300 is shown in the vertical state The time profile of the tilt angle α between the maximum tilt angles -442, 442 is shown in FIG. As can be seen from FIG. 4, an essentially sinusoidal curve results.

The offshore structure 300 comprises at least one position detection device 319 (with at least one suitable position sensor), set up to detect the at least one position parameter of the offshore structure 300. In other words, in this exemplary embodiment, the offshore structure 300 can, in particular, record at least one actual position parameter of the Offshore structure 300, determined by the position detection device 319 itself. In particular, a winch device or another device (e.g. ballast medium conveyor arrangement, lifting device), in particular the at least one drive, can be activated as a function of a difference between the detected position parameter or actual position parameter and the (specified) position setpoint parameter. It goes without saying that an actual position parameter data record and a corresponding position setpoint parameter data record can be provided.

The at least one position parameter can in particular be at least one position angle (also called Euler angle) of the offshore structure 300 . The at least one position parameter can be, for example, a yaw angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure 300 and the vertical axis (also called the z-axis)), a roll angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure 300 and a longitudinal axis (also called the x axis)) and/or a pitching or pitching angle (angle between the current orientation of the offshore structure 300 and a longitudinal axis (also called the y-axis)).

The position detection device 319 can preferably be a tilt angle detection device 319, set up to detect the (maximum) tilt angle 342 of the offshore structure 300. As shown, the tilt angle 342 is in particular the (maximum) angle 342 related to a vertical axis 340 or direction z with a tilting or swaying movement 338 des Offshore structure 300. For example, a (maximum) tilt angle 342, preferably a permissible tilt angle range, can be provided as the position setpoint parameter. If the actual tilt angle 342 is outside the permissible tilt angle range, the length in particular can be changed in such a way (in particular for so long) that (until) the detected tilt angle 342 is again in the permissible range.

As an alternative or in addition, the position detection device 319 can be a tilt frequency detection device 319, set up to detect the tilt frequency (f _tilt =1/T _tilt , see FIG. 4) of the offshore structure 300. It is understood that detecting the tilt frequency f _{tilt is} a detection the tipping period duration T _tipping includes. Regulation can be carried out analogously to the explanations regarding the tilt angle.

FIGS. 5a and 5b show another exemplary embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure 500 with differently set vertical distances 547.1, 547.2. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences from the previous exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 1a to 4 are described below and otherwise reference is made to the previous statements. It should be noted that the entire wind power device is not shown for the sake of a better overview.

The difference between the distances 547.1, 547.2 in FIGS. 5a and 5b is denoted by reference numeral 522. The adjustable difference can preferably be between 10 m and 40 m.

In the present case, a position stabilization device 512 is provided for adjusting the vertical distance 547.1, 547.2 (to the underwater bottom surface (or to the waterline)). The position stabilization device 512 shown comprises at least one ballast tank 539 which can be filled with a ballast medium 525 and is preferably arranged in the foundation 504 . The position stabilization device also includes 512 at least one ballast medium delivery arrangement 531. This is set up in particular to change the fill level 527 of the ballast tank 539.

In the present case, the ballast medium delivery arrangement 531 comprises in particular two pumping devices 545. A pumping device 545 is set up in particular to change the level 527 of the ballast tank 539 by actively delivering the ballast medium 525 (in particular water) into the ballast tank 539 (indicated by the arrow 541). In particular, an opening 543 can be arranged in the foundation 504 through which the ballast medium 525 can be pumped into the ballast tank 539 .

The additional pumping device 230 is set up in particular to change the fill level 527 of the ballast tank 539 by actively conveying the ballast medium 525 out of the ballast tank 539 (indicated by the arrow 537). In particular, a further opening 533 can be arranged in the foundation 504 through which the ballast medium 525 can be pumped out of the ballast tank 539 .

A control module 528 can preferably be provided. The (local) control module 528 of the position stabilization device 512 can be controlled, for example, by a control device (not shown) with a position setpoint parameter (e.g. a specific filling quantity (e.g. full, half full, empty, x liters etc.) or the like). A minimum target position parameter can preferably be stored locally.

Depending on an instantaneous level 527 measurable by a level measuring element (not shown) of the control module 528 and a target height value obtained, a pump device 545 can be controlled in such a way that the level 527 is changed according to the target position parameter. In particular, the position of an offshore structure 500 can be stabilized by changing the vertical distance 547.1, 557.2. In addition, the power yield in particular can be increased as a result. The position stabilization device 512 can also include at least one tracking module 551, set up for tracking (i.e. changing the length) of the anchor connection 509, in particular when there is a change in the vertical distance 547.1, 547.2 between an underwater bottom surface 518 of the underwater bottom 516 and the buoyant foundation 504. In order to prevent that a desired (minimum and/or maximum) voltage between the anchor 510 and the foundation 504 is not reached or exceeded, each anchor connection 509 can in particular be coupled to a tracking module 551 in order to track the anchor connection 509 accordingly.

Figures 6a and 6b show another embodiment of a buoyant offshore structure 600 with differently set vertical distances 647.1, 647.2. To avoid repetition, essentially only the differences from the previous exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 1a to 5b are described below and otherwise reference is made to the previous statements. It should be noted that the entire wind power device and the anchoring arrangements (and tracking modules) are not shown for the sake of a better overview.

The position stabilization device 612 presently comprises at least one weight arrangement 612 connected to the buoyant foundation 604. In particular, the weight arrangement 612 can comprise a weight connection 654 (e.g. an anchor cable 654 and/or an anchor chain 654) which can be connected to the foundation 604. The other end of the weight linkage 654 can be connected to a weight member 656 of the weight assembly 612 .

In a lowered state of the weight arrangement 612, in particular almost no weight force is exerted on the foundation 640 by the at least one weight element 656 of the weight arrangement 612

State of the weight assembly 612, for example caused by a

Lifting device 658 (eg a winch 658), in particular a weight g (corresponding to the weight of the weight element 656 of the weight assembly) exerted by the at least one weight element 656 of the weight assembly 612 on the foundation 604. By adjusting the lifting device 658 between the mentioned states of the weight arrangement 612, the mentioned vertical distance 647.1, 647.2 can be changed at least between two discrete values. A control module (not shown) can also be provided here, which can control the lifting device 658 as a function of a desired position parameter received (eg lowering or not lowering).

It goes without saying that the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 2, 5a, 5b and/or 6a, 6b can be combined with one another.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of an offshore system 760. An offshore wind farm 760 is shown as an example. In the following explanations, at least one target position parameter can be provided and in particular specified by a control device 762. The at least one target position parameter, preferably at least two selectable different target position parameters (data sets), can be stored locally and in advance in an offshore structure 700.1-700.4. For example, it can be provided that at least one minimum target position parameter (data set) is stored locally in each offshore structure 700.1-700.4. This can ensure that a certain minimum stable position of the offshore structure 700.1-700.4 is always maintained. The actual position of the offshore structure 700.1-700.4 can then be set in the permissible range (variable, in particular yield-optimized), in particular such (for offshore wind turbines 700.1-700.4) that the energy yield of the offshore wind farm is maximized. Due to the minimum desired position parameter - (data set) it is ensured here that a sufficiently stable position of each offshore wind power plant 700.1-700.4 is always maintained. In the following it is assumed that a minimum target position parameter (data set) is fixed and additionally dependent on meteorological

Ambient conditions, position setpoint parameters, in particular in the form of height setpoints, is specified by the control device 762 of the offshore wind farm 760. This specification is described in more detail below.

The control device 762 can be implemented, for example, in a farm controller (not shown) (provided anyway) of the offshore wind farm 760 .

In the present case, the control device 762 comprises a communication module 764, a height control module 768, a detection device 770, a height setpoint determination device 772 and a data storage arrangement 774.

It goes without saying that in other variants further or fewer modules/devices can be provided.

The height setpoint determination device 772, which can alternatively also be implemented in another computing device, can be set up to determine at least the height setpoints, depending on at least one meteorological environmental condition (at the installation site of the offshore wind farm 760).

The determination can preferably take place before the installation of the offshore wind farm 760, but also during the installation and/or (immediately) after the installation of the offshore wind farm 760. As already stated, an optimization process can take place (continuously) during operation.

Desired position parameters can preferably be determined in the form of desired height values for preferably all offshore wind power plants 700.1 to 700.4.

In particular, the height setpoint determined in each case can depend on the (parking) position of the respective offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4, in particular in Relation to at least one other offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4 of the offshore wind farm 760. For example, a plan and/or a model of the offshore wind farm 760 can be stored (for example in the data storage arrangement 774 or another storage arrangement), in which each offshore - Wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4 is assigned a parking position attribute. The parking position can at least be derived from the respective parking position attribute.

In particular, the respective parking position attribute can be used to (dynamically) form at least two subgroups of offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4. This means, in particular, that the offshore wind power plants 700.1 to 700.4 of a subgroup are essentially set to the same vertical distance, that is to say are driven essentially with the same desired height value. The classification can be (inherently) mapped in particular in an assignment table or database.

The at least one altitude setpoint determination device 772 can be set up to (in advance) determine the altitude setpoints for controlling the plurality of offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 given at least one measured or predicted meteorological environmental condition. The height setpoint determination device 772 can be set up to carry out a plurality of simulation steps, based in particular on a simulation model of the plurality of wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 of the offshore wind farm 760. In other variants of the application, tests to determine the power yield can actually be carried out, as already described became.

In particular, a (mathematical) simulation model of the offshore wind farm 760 can be created during planning and before installation, with which at least the total electrical power generated can be simulated and in particular determined under different meteorological environmental conditions and in particular with differently set vertical distances/positions. In each simulation step, different desired height values can preferably be set for the plurality of offshore wind power plants 700.1 to 700.4 and the total electrical power generated in each case for the desired height values can be determined.

The height setpoints can be determined as height setpoints, i.e. position setpoint parameters (values), for (actually) controlling the plurality of offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 in the meteorological ambient conditions and, in particular, stored in an allocation table in the data storage arrangement 774, in which the determined total electrical power generated is maximum

For preferably at least two different meteorological environmental conditions, the respective height setpoints can be determined by a simulation process (with a plurality of simulation steps), at which at least the simulated generated total electrical power is maximized. In the assignment table, each (specified) environmental condition for each offshore wind turbine 700.1 to 700.4 a height setpoint can be assigned.

In particular, a classification or height adjustment strategy can be specified and mapped by determining the desired height values. For example, the first row of offshore wind turbines 700.1, 700.2 in the wind direction (ie with a specific detected environmental condition) can always be controlled in such a way that the vertical distance is maximized (ie the hub height is maximized). The second row of offshore wind power plants 700.3, 700.4 in the direction of the wind (that is to say with a specific detected environmental condition) can be controlled in such a way that the vertical distance is minimized (that is to say the hub height is minimized). In other variants, the setting can also be made exactly the other way round. If further intermediate heights and/or a continuous adjustment of the Distances or heights are possible, other classification or height adjustment strategies can also be provided.

When the offshore wind farm 760 is in operation, at least one specific meteorological environmental parameter of the offshore wind farm 760 can be provided. In particular, the at least one meteorological environmental parameter can be made available to the control device 762 via the communication module 764 . The at least one specific meteorological environmental parameter can be an instantaneous meteorological environmental parameter measured by at least one measuring device and/or a predicted meteorological environmental parameter. Preferably, a plurality of meteorological environmental parameters (measured and forecast) can be provided, such as wind direction (measured and / or forecast), wind force (measured and / or forecast), wave height (measured and / or forecast) and wave direction (measured and / or forecast ).

The detection device 770 can in particular detect whether at least one of the (specified) meteorological environmental conditions is fulfilled by the at least one determined and provided meteorological environmental parameter. A meteorological environmental condition (or criterion) includes in particular at least one meteorological environmental parameter range. During the detection, it can be checked whether the meteorological environmental parameter is in the at least one environmental parameter range or not. In other words, it can be checked whether the at least one meteorological environmental parameter (value) satisfies the at least one environmental condition or not.

This can be detected in particular, whether the meteorological

Ambient condition has changed, causing a change in vertical

distances/positions should take place. Is found that the meteorological Ambient condition has not changed, in particular no change in the vertical distances is required.

In particular, if it is determined that the meteorological environmental condition has changed from a previously detected meteorological environmental condition, for example from a first to a second meteorological environmental condition (e.g. the wind speed and/or wind direction may have changed to an extent specified by the defined environmental conditions or is changed), the height control module 768 can control at least one

Position stabilization device of an offshore wind power plant 700.1 to 700.4 with a height setpoint or position setpoint parameter for effecting a change, in particular a vertical distance of the buoyant foundation of the offshore wind power plant 700.1 to 700.4 to the underwater ground surface according to the height setpoint. In particular, at least every offshore wind power installation 700.1 to 700.4 in which the vertical distance is to be changed can be controlled.

Height control module 768 can preferably access the assignment table described and stored in data storage system 774 in order to determine or read out the desired height values (or desired position parameters) to be used for control. Then, height control module 768 can cause corresponding control commands to be sent, each containing at least a height setpoint (previously described). The control commands can be transmitted to the respective offshore wind power plants 700.1 to 700.4 via the communication module 764 and the communication network 756. the respective

Position stabilization devices can then - adjust the vertical distance or the vertical position - in the manner described above.

In particular, depending on the wind direction, the individual heights of the wind turbine hubs can be adjusted in such a way that the yield is maximized. how has already been described, conceivable height adjustments are continuous or discrete, for example by means of two or three preset heights.

Provision can also be made for all offshore wind turbines 700.1 to 700.4 to reduce, in particular minimize, their vertical distance when the wind and/or waves are too strong (predetermined by, for example, a third meteorological environmental condition), since the nominal power has been reached and/or damage is avoided to avoid.

Figure 8 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application for stabilizing the position of a buoyant offshore structure, in particular a buoyant offshore structure according to one of the previous embodiments, wherein the offshore structure comprises at least one anchoring arrangement, set up for fastening the Offshore structure on an underwater bed in an anchoring state of the offshore structure, wherein the anchoring arrangement comprises at least one anchor connection running between an anchor and the buoyant foundation.

In a step 801, at least one target position parameter and at least one position parameter of the offshore structure are provided. In step 802, the length of the anchor connection between the anchor and the buoyant foundation in the anchored state is changed, based on the position parameter of the offshore structure and the position target parameter.

It will be appreciated that when a winch facility is used, it may be necessary to tie an anchor deeper into the underwater bed and/or increase the weight of the anchor (compared to the case where no winch facility is provided).

Claims

P atentClaims

1. Floatable offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), in particular a buoyant offshore wind turbine (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), comprising: - at least one buoyant foundation (104, 204 , 304, 504, 604), comprising at least one floating body (106, 206, 306, 506, 606), and - at least one anchoring arrangement (108, 208, 508), set up for fastening the offshore structure (100, 200, 300 , 500, 600, 700) on a . Underwater bottom (116, 216, 316, 516, 616) in an anchoring state of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), - wherein the anchoring arrangement (108, 208, 508) has at least one between an anchor ( 110, 210, 510) and the buoyant foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) running anchor connection (109, 209, 509), characterized in that the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600 , 700) comprises: - at least one position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612), set up to change the length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) between the anchor (110, 210, 510) and the buoyant foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) in the anchoring state, based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) and at least one target position parameter.

2. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to claim 1, characterized in that - the position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) has at least one with the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) coupled winch means (224) arranged to change the length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) between the anchor (110, 210, 510) and the buoyant foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604).

3. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to claim 2, characterized in that - the winch device (224) comprises at least one parking brake (221), - the parking brake (221) for changing the Length of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) is detachable.

4. 0 ffshore building (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the offshore building (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) at least a position detection device (319), set up to detect the at least one position parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

5. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to claim 4, characterized in that "- the position detection device (319) is a tilt angle detection device (319) set up to detect the tilt angle of the offshore structure ( 100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), and/or - the position detection device (319) is a tilt frequency detection device (319), set up to detect the tilt frequency of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700 ).

6. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - at least a first selectable position setpoint parameter for a first position of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500 , 600, 700) and a second selectable target position parameters are provided for a second positional state of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), · - the first positional state differing from the second positional state.

7. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - at least one vertical anchor connection (108, 208, 508) running essentially in the vertical direction on the buoyant foundation ( 104, 204, 304, 504, 604), and - at least one angle anchor connection (108, 208, 508) running at an angle to the vertical direction of at least 2°, preferably at least 5°, on the floatable foundation (104, 204 , 304, 504, 604) is fixed, - the position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) being set up to change the length of the vertical anchor connection (108, 208, 508) and/or the angle anchor connection (108, 208, 508) , based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

8. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the location parameter is a location parameter that can be determined from a meteorological environment parameter, and - the at least one meteorological environment parameter is selected from of the group comprising: - wind direction, - wind force, - wave height, - wave direction.

9. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one ballast tank (539) that can be filled with a ballast medium (525), and - the position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one ballast medium delivery arrangement (531), set up for Changing the filling level (525) of the ballast tank (539).

10. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) has at least one with the buoyant foundation (104, 204 , 304, 504, 604) associated weight assembly (612) changeable at least between a state lowered onto the underwater bottom surface (118, 218, 518, 618) and a state raised off the underwater bottom surface (118, 218, 518, 618). .

11. Offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) comprises at least one tracking module (550), set up for Tracking of the anchor connection (109, 209, 509), in particular when there is a change in a vertical distance between an underwater bottom surface (118, 218, 518, 618) of the underwater bottom (116, 216, 516, 616) and the buoyant foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604).

12. Offshore system (760), in particular offshore wind farm (760), comprising: - a plurality of offshore structures (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to any one of the preceding claims, and - at least one control Ervorri direction (762), set up to specify at least one target position parameter for the plurality of offshore structures (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700).

13. Method for stabilizing the position of a buoyant offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), in particular a buoyant offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the above. Claims 1 to 12, wherein the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) comprises at least one anchoring arrangement (108, 208, 508) set up for fastening the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500 , 600, 700) on an underwater bed (116, 2126, 516, 616) in an anchoring state of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), wherein the anchoring arrangement (109, 208, 508) at least one anchor connection (109, 209, 509) running between an anchor (110, 210, 510) and a floating foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700). ), the method comprising: - providing at least one target position parameter and at least one • position parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), and -* changing 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 location pa rameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) and the target position parameter.

14. Buoyant offshore set, comprising: - at least one buoyant foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) for an offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700), in particular an offshore structure ( 100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, - at least one anchoring arrangement (108, 208, 508) with at least one on the buoyant foundation (104, 204, 304, 504, 604) attachable anchor connection (109, 209, 509), and - at least one position stabilization device (112, 212, 512, 612) in the form of a winch device (224) that can be coupled to the anchor connection (109, 209, 509), set up for winding up and/or unwinding the anchor connection (109, 209, 509) coupled to the winch device (224), based on at least one position parameter of the offshore structure (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700) and at least one target position parameter.