GB2548965A

GB2548965A - Gripping apparatus and associated systems

Info

Publication number: GB2548965A
Application number: GB1702101.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: West Alan; s giles John; Whyte Charles
Original assignee: W3G MARINE Ltd
Current assignee: W3G MARINE LTD
Priority date: 2016-02-08
Filing date: 2017-02-08
Publication date: 2017-10-04
Anticipated expiration: 2037-02-08
Also published as: GB201702101D0; GB201602227D0; GB2548965B

Abstract

A gripping apparatus 14, such as an offshore gripping apparatus for securing a support structure 8, such as a wind turbine to a foundation 4 which may be a tubular pile into the seabed 6. The gripping apparatus 14 comprises a gripping arrangement 16, the gripping arrangement comprising a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein when the gripping arrangement is in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to secure at least one portion of the support structure 8 to at least one portion of the foundation 4. The gripping arrangement may comprise a plurality of gripping members 22 which may be inflatable elements 24 inflated by a fluid from an actuation system 18 through one or more inlets 20. The inflatable elements may be placed in an annular space formed between the foundation and the support structure.

Description

GRIPPING APPARATUS AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS

FIELD

The present invention relates to a gripping apparatus and associated system and method. The gripping apparatus, system and/or method may find utility offshore.

BACKGROUND

Offshore structures, such as offshore wind turbines, may be supported and/or mounted by a support structure, such as for example a jacket. The jacket may typically have three or four legs, which may be arranged to form a lattice structure. Jackets can be lowered onto pre-installed piles. The piles may be installed by driving them into the seabed using a piling hammer and/or a piling template.

Once the jacket has been lowered onto the piles, the jacket may be permanently fixed to the piles, for example by forming a cemented or grouted connection between the jacket and the piles. The cemented or grouted connection may transfer the loads between the jacket and the piles.

It is desirable to minimise or prevent any movement between the jacket and piles, until the cement is fully cured, to form a strong and robust connection between the jacket and the piles. This is often achieved by waiting for sufficiently calm weather conditions, which may lead to increased costs for installing the jackets on the piles.

Subsea grippers, which may be used in the offshore industry, range from sacrificial to reusable. Such subsea grippers can be expensive and designed for a single jacket structure installation which makes them unsuitable for the offshore wind industry requirements where hundreds of structures have to be installed.

Pile grippers may be used to lock the jacket to the piles. Such pile gripper may comprise one or more hydraulic cylinders mounted on a steel ring, which may be welded to the jacket leg. A mechanical lock between the jacket leg and a respective pile may be achieved by applying a substantial force on the pile through the extended hydraulic cylinders.

Alternatively, a mechanical lock may be be achieved using gripper wedges, which may be driven into the pile by a hydraulic cylinder and forced towards the pile.

It is an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to obviate or at least mitigate one or more problems or disadvantages in the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a gripping apparatus for securing a support structure to a foundation. The gripping apparatus may be or comprise an offshore gripping apparatus. The support structure may be, be comprised in or be part of a first structure. The terms “support structure” and “first structure” may be interchangeably used. The foundation may be, be comprised in or be part of a second structure. The terms “foundation” and “second structure” may be interchangeably used.

The gripping apparatus may comprise a gripping arrangement. The gripping arrangement may comprise a retracted configuration. The gripping arrangement may comprise an expanded configuration. For example when the gripping arrangement is in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement may be configured to secure at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation.

The at least one portion of the support structure may comprise or define an inner or outer periphery or circumference. The at least one portion of the foundation may comprise or define an inner or outer periphery or circumference.

For example when the gripping arrangement is the in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement may be configured to position and/or align the at least one portion of the support structure relative to the at least one portion of the foundation.

For example when in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement may be configured to minimise or substantially prevent movement of the at least one portion of the support structure relative to the at least one portion of the foundation, e.g. to allow for fixation of the at least one portion of the support structure to the foundation.

The gripping arrangement may configured for actuation between the retracted configuration and the expanded configuration. For example, the gripping arrangement may be configured to be actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration by a fluid, such as a pressurised fluid, supplied to gripping arrangement.

For example when the gripping arrangement is actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement may be configured to exert a force and/or load, e.g. to allow for securing of the at least one portion of the support to the at least one portion of the foundation. The force exerted by the gripping arrangement may comprise a radial force and/or load.

The gripping arrangement may be configured for arrangement in an annular space. The annular space may be formed between the at least one portion of the support structure and the at least one portion of the foundation. For example when the gripping arrangement is actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement may be configured to expand radially into the annular space, e.g. to secure the at least one portion of the support structure to the at least one portion of the foundation.

The gripping arrangement may be configured to conform to a space available in the annular space.

The gripping apparatus may be configured for arrangement at a position or predetermined position on the at least one portion of the support structure and/or of the at least one portion of the foundation.

The gripping arrangement comprises at least one gripping member or a plurality of gripping members. The at least one gripping member or the plurality of gripping members may be configured for peripheral or radial arrangement in the annular space, e.g. formed between the portion of the support structure and the portion of the foundation. The plurality gripping members may be configured for arrangement on and/or around an inner or outer periphery or circumference of the at least one portion of the support structure. The plurality gripping members may be configured for arrangement on and/or around an inner or outer periphery or circumference of the at least one portion of the foundation.

Each gripping member may comprise at least one inflatable element or a plurality of inflatable elements. The at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable element may comprise a deformable element. The at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable element may comprise or define a chamber for receiving a fluid, e.g. a pressurised fluid.

The at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable element may be configured to conform to a space available in the annular space.

For example when a fluid is supplied to the at least one inflatable element, at least one inflatable element or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements, the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements may be configured to expand in a transverse (e.g. substantially transverse) direction.

The at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements may comprise a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration.

For example when each gripping member comprises a/the plurality of inflatable elements, the plurality of inflatable elements may be arranged to form a stack of inflatable elements.

The at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements may be made of a sheet material or sheet-like material. The sheet material may have a thickness of about 1 to 5mm, such as for example about 3mm. The sheet material may be or comprise a metal, such as for example steel or a steel alloy, e.g. stainless steel, or another iron alloy.

The apparatus may comprise a connection arrangement. The connection arrangement may be configured to supply a fluid to the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements. The connection arrangement may be configured to connect or interconnect at least two inflatable elements of the plurality of inflatable element. The connection arrangement may be configured to allow for a fluid to be supplied from one of the two inflatable elements to another one of the two inflatable elements.

The apparatus may comprise a connection element. The connection element may be comprised in or part of the connection arrangement. The connection element may be configured for connecting or interconnecting at least two inflatable elements. The connection element may comprise a resiiient connection element.

The apparatus may comprise an inlet. The inlet may be for supplying a fluid to the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements. The inlet may be arranged to extend or protrude from the apparatus, e.g. to allow for ease of access.

The gripping apparatus may be, comprise or be considered as a sacrificial gripping apparatus.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a first structure, such as a support structure, for supporting a wind turbine structure. The first structure may comprise a gripping apparatus according to the first aspect.

The first structure may be configured for attachment to a second structure, such as a foundation. The first structure may be or comprise a jacket, tripod, or gravity base.

The first structure may be or comprise a transition piece. The transition piece may comprise one or more levelling actuators. The one or more levelling actuators may be configured to allow for orienting or levelling of the transition piece relative to a second structure, such as a foundation.

The first structure may be or comprise an offshore structure.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a second structure, such as a foundation, for mounting a first structure, such as a support structure. The second structure may comprise a gripping apparatus according to the first aspect.

The second structure may comprise a monopile or one or more seafastening sockets. The second structure may be configured for arrangement and/or installation on a seabed.

The second structure may be or comprise an offshore structure.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a system, such as an offshore system, for securing a support structure to a foundation.

The system may comprise a foundation arranged or arrangeable on a seabed. The system may comprise a support structure for supporting a wind turbine structure. The support structure may be configured for attachment to the foundation.

The system may comprise a gripping apparatus. The gripping apparatus may comprise a gripping arrangement. The gripping arrangement may comprise a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration. For example when the gripping arrangement is in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement may be configured to secure at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation.

The gripping apparatus may be or comprise the gripping apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for securing a support structure to a foundation.

The method may comprise arranging a foundation on a seabed. The method may comprise arranging a support structure for supporting a wind turbine on the foundation. The method may comprise securing at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation, e.g. by actuating a gripping arrangement of a gripping apparatus from a retracted configuration to an expanded configuration.

The method may comprise injecting a curable, fixable or settable material into an annular space formed between the at least one portion of the support structure and the at least one portion of the foundation.

The method may comprise setting, fixing or curing the curable, fixable or settable material the annular space, e.g. to allow the at least one portion of the support structure to become permanently fixed to the at least one portion of the foundation.

The method may comprise leaving or maintaining the gripping apparatus in the annular space, e.g. after curing, setting or fixing of the curable, fixable or settable material.

It should be understood that the features defined above in accordance with any aspect of the present invention or below in relation to any specific embodiment of the invention may be utilised, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 schematically depicts a system for securing a support structure to a foundation;

Figure 2 schematically depicts a portion of the support structure fixed to a portion of the foundation of Figure 1;

Figure 3 schematically depicts a gripping apparatus for use with the system of Figure 1;

Figures 4a and 4b schematically depict a gripping member of the gripping apparatus of Figure 3 in a retracted configuration;

Figures 4c, 4d and 4e schematically depict a gripping member of the gripping apparatus of Figure 3 in an expanded configuration;

Figures 5a and 5b schematically depict a plan view and a front view of an inflatable element for use with the gripping member of Figures 4a to 4e;

Figure 5c schematically depicts an inlet for use with the inflatable element of Figures 5a and 5b or for use with the gripping apparatus of Figure 3;

Figures 6a and 6b schematically depicts the gripping apparatus of Figure 3 in an annular space between the portion of the support structure fixed to the portion of the foundation in the expanded configuration (left) and in the retracted configuration (right); and

Figure 7 schematically depicts another system for securing a support structure to a foundation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of a system 2 for securing a support structure to a foundation. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 1, the foundation is provided in the form of seafastening sockets 4, which are arranged on a seabed 6. The seafastening sockets 4 can be secured to the seabed 6. For example, each seafastening socket 4a, 4b may be provided in the form of a tubular or tubular pile, pile structure or the like that is has been driven into the seabed 6, for example by a pile hammer or the like. The seafastening sockets 4 may be arranged or pre-installed on the seabed 6. Although in this embodiment the foundation is described as being provided in the form of seafastening sockets, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments foundation may be provided in the form of a monopile or the like.

The exemplary system 2 depicted in Figure 1 comprises a support structure for supporting a wind turbine structure (not shown). The support structure may be configured to allow for attachment of a wind turbine structure, e.g. a tower for supporting a turbine, to the support structure. The support structure may be configured for attachment to the seafastening sockets 4. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 1, the support structure is provided in the form of a jacket 8. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the support structure may be provided in the form of tripod or gravity base and/or may comprise a transition piece.

The jacket 8 depicted in Figure 1 comprises a plurality of legs 8a, 8b (only two legs of the jacket 8 are depicted in Figure 1 for clarity purposes). Each leg 8a, 8b of the jacket 8 may be provided in form of a tubular portion, which may be configured to be received in a respective seafastening socket 4a, 4b.

Figure 2 depicts a leg 8a of the jacket 8 being received in the respective seafastening socket 4a. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 2, the leg 8a of the jacket 8 comprises a tapered portion 9, which is provided on a free end of the leg 8a. The tapered portion 9 may be provided on the leg 8a to facilitate insertion of the leg 8a into the seafastening socket 4a. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, no tapered portion may be provided on the free end of the leg.

In the embodiment depicted in Figure 2, an annular space 10 is formed between the leg 8a of the jacket 8 and a portion of the seafastening socket 4a. A curable, fixable or settable material, which may be provided in the form of cement 12, may be injected into the annular space 10 to permanently fix the leg 8a of the jacket 8 to the seafastening socket 4a. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the curable, fixable or settable material may comprise an epoxy, concrete, grout and/or the like. Although Figure 2 only depicts one leg 8a of the jacket 8 as being fixed to the seafastening socket 4a, it will be appreciated that all legs of the jacket may be fixed to their respective seafastening sockets in the same manner.

In order to achieve a robust connection between the jacket and the seafastening sockets, it is desirable to minimise any movement between the legs of the jacket relative to the respective seafastening sockets prior to injection of the cement into the annular space and/or until the cement is fully cured.

Figure 3 depicts an exemplary gripping apparatus 14 for use with the system depicted in Figures 1 and 2. The gripping apparatus 14 comprises a gripping arrangement 16. The gripping arrangement 16 comprises a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration, which is depicted in Figure 3. When the gripping arrangement 16 is in the expanded configuration, e.g. in use, the gripping arrangement 16 is configured to secure at least one portion of the jacket 8 to at least one portion of the seafastening sockets 4. The gripping apparatus 14 may be configured to provide a lock or mechanical lock between the at least one portion of the jacket 8 and the at least one portion of the seafastening sockets 4

In this embodiment, the gripping arrangement 16 is configured to secure the leg 8a (or a portion thereof) of the jacket 8 to the respective seafastening socket 4a (or a portion thereof). For example, when in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement 16 is configured to minimise or prevent movement of the leg 8a of the jacket 8 relative to seafastening socket 4a to allow for fixation, e.g. permanent fixation, of the leg 8a to the seafastening socket 4a. This may allow cement 12 to be injected into the annular space 10, while movement of the leg of the jacket relative to the seafastening socket may be prevented or minimised to provide for a connection of increased strength between the leg 8a and the seafastening socket 4a.

For example, in use, when the gripping arrangement 16 is the in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement 16 is configured to position the leg 8a of the jacket 8 relative to the seafastening socket 4a. For example, when the gripping arrangement is in the expanded configuration, the leg 8a may be positioned in a centre or centre region of the seafastening socket 4a.

The gripping arrangement 16 can be actuated between the retracted configuration and the expanded configuration. For example, the gripping arrangement 16 may configured to be actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration by a fluid supplied to gripping arrangement 16. The fluid may be supplied to the gripping arrangement 16 at a pressure of about 50 to 200 bar (5x10® to 20x10® Pa), e.g. about 30 to 75 bar (3x10® to 7.5x10® Pa). The fluid may comprise a fluid that is compatible with sea water, e.g. a fluid that does not cause any contamination to sea water. The fluid may comprise pressurised air, pressurised water or sea water, a hydraulic liquid, such as a hydraulic oil, and/or a curable, settable or fixable material, such as an epoxy, concrete, cement, grout and/or the like.

The system 2 may comprise an actuation system 18, which is configured to supply the fluid to the gripping arrangement 16 to actuate the gripping arrangement 16 from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration. For example, the gripping apparatus 14 may comprise one or more inlet 20 (which will be described in more detail below). The one or more inlets 20 may be arranged such as to allow for connection of the inlets 20 to the actuation system 18. For example, the inlets 20 of the gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged so that, for example in use, the inlets 20 extend or protrude from the seafastening socket 4a, for example towards a sea level. This arrangement of the inlets 20 may facilitate connection of the gripping apparatus 14 to the actuation system 18, which may be arranged above the sea level, such as for example on a vessel or barge (not shown).

The actuation system 18 may be configured to supply the fluid to the gripping arrangement 16 to allow the gripping arrangement 16 to be actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration by the actuation system 18. Although Figure 3 shows the actuation system 18 as being only connected to one inlet 20 of the gripping arrangement 16, it should be understood that in other embodiments the actuation system may be connected to each inlet of the gripping arrangement.

When the gripping arrangement 16 is actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration, as depicted in Figure 3, the gripping arrangement 16 is configured to exert a force and/or load, such as for example a radial force and/or load, on the legs 8a of the jacket 8 and the seafastening socket 4a. The force and/or load exerted by the gripping arrangement allows for securing of the leg 8a of the jacket 8 to the seafastening socket 4a.

The gripping arrangement 16 is configured for arrangement in the annular space 10 formed between the leg 8a of the jacket 8 and the seafastening socket 4. When the gripping arrangement 16 is actuated, the gripping arrangement 16 is configured to expand radially into the annular space 10 from the retracted configuration to the expanded configuration to securing the leg 8a of the jacket 8 to the seafastening socket 4a. The gripping arrangement may be configured to conform to a space available in the annular space 10. In other words, the gripping arrangement 16 may be configured to compensate for a non-uniform or irregular annular space. A non-uniform or irregular annular space may be present, for example, in an eccentric arrangement of the leg 8a of the jacket 8 relative to the seafastening socket 4a or when the leg 8a and/or the seafastening socket 4a comprise a shape other than a tubular shape or a cross-section other than substantially circular. The gripping arrangement 16 may be configured to compensate for varying geometries of the leg 8a and/or the seafastening socket 4a.

Once the leg 8a or all legs of the jacket 8 has/have been secured to the respective seafastening sockets 4, the jacket may be fixed to the seafastening sockets 4 by injecting cement 12 into the annular space 10 between each leg of the jacket 8 and the respective seafastening socket 4.

In the embodiment depicted in Figure 3. the gripping apparatus 14 is arranged on the leg 8a of the jacket 8. For example, the gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged on the leg 8a of the jacket 8 at a pre-determined position. For example, the gripping apparatus may be arranged on the leg 8a so that when the leg is received in the seafastening socket 4a, the gripping apparatus 14 is arranged in proximity of an opening 5 of the seafastening socket 4a. This may allow for ease of aces to the gripping apparatus 14. The gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged on and/or an outer circumference of the leg 8a of the jacket 8. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the gripping apparatus may be arranged on the seafastening sockets. For example, the gripping apparatus may be arranged on an inner circumference of the seafastening socket and/or in proximity of the opening of the seafastening socket.

The gripping apparatus 14 may comprise a plurality of gripping members 22. The plurality of gripping members 22 may be part of or comprised in the gripping arrangement 16. The plurality of gripping members 22 are configured for arrangement in the annular space 10. The plurality of gripping members 22 may be peripherally or radially arranged in the annular space 10. The plurality of gripping members 22 may be configured for arrangement on and/or around the outer periphery or circumference of the leg 8a of the jacket 8. The plurality of gripping members 22 may be arranged to extend fully or partially around the outer periphery or circumference of the leg 8a of the jacket 8. It will be appreciated that the plurality of gripping members 22 may be configured for arrangement on and/or around an outer periphery circumference of each leg of the jacket 8. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments gripping members may be arranged on and/or around an inner periphery or circumference of the seafastening socket or each seafastening socket. The plurality of gripping members may be arranged to extend fully or partially around the inner periphery or circumference of the seafastening socket or each seafastening socket.

Each gripping member 22 may comprise a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration. For example, when the gripping arrangement 16 is in the retracted configuration, at least one or all of the gripping members 22 may be in the retracted configuration. When the gripping arrangement 16 is in the expanded configuration, at least one or all of the gripping members 22 may be in the expanded direction.

Each gripping member 22 comprises a plurality of inflatable elements 24. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 3, each gripping member 22 comprises two inflatable elements 24. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments each gripping member may comprise more than two inflatable elements or less than two inflatable elements.

At least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 comprises a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration. In the retracted configuration of the gripping arrangement 16 and/or gripping member 22, the at least one or each inflation element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 is in the retracted configuration. In the expanded configuration of the gripping arrangement 16 and/or gripping member 22, the at least one or each inflation element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 is in the expanded configuration.

Figure 4a depicts a front view of a gripping member 22 comprising four inflatable elements 24. Figure 4b shows a side view of the gripping member 22 depicted in Figure 4a. In the embodiment depicted in Figures 4a and 4b, each inflatable element 24 is in a retracted configuration. Figures 4c and 4d depict the gripping member 22 in the expanded configuration, in which in this example each inflatable element is in the expanded configuration.

At least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable element 24 may be or comprises a deformable element. At least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 comprises or defines a chamber 26, e.g. hollow chamber, for receiving the fluid, for example from the actuation system 18.

When the fluid is supplied to at least one inflatable element or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 is configured to expand, for example in a transverse direction. In other words, the supply of fluid to the at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements may cause the at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 to expand in a direction perpendicular (or substantially perpendicular) to a longitudinal or central axis A of the at ieast on or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24. For example, in the retracted configuration the at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may comprise an extent or dimension E in the transverse direction of about 2 to 10mm, such as for example about 6mm. In the expanded configuration, the at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may comprise an extent or dimension E in the transverse direction of about 100 to 200mm, such as for example about 150mm. The extent or dimension E may be considered as a thickness of the/each inflatable element in the retracted and/or expanded configuration.

The plurality of inflatable elements 24, e.g. at least one or each inflatable element 24, may be configured to conform to a space available in the annular space 10. In other words, the plurality of inflatable elements 24, e.g. at least one or each inflatable element 24, may be configured to compensate for a non-uniform or irregular annular space. A non-uniform or irregular annular space may be present, for example in an eccentric arrangement of the leg 8a of the jacket 8 relative to the seafastening socket 4a or when the leg 8a and/or the seafastening socket 4a comprise a shape other than a tubular shape or a cross-section other than substantially circular. The gripping arrangement 16 may be configured to compensate for varying geometries of the leg 8a and/or the seafastening socket 4a.

When the fluid is supplied to at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements may be configured to exert a force/load of between 10 tonnes to 200 tonnes (e.g. 10 tonnes to 200 tonnes/ area of the inflatable element). For example, when the fluid supplied to at least one or each inflatable element comprises a pressure of about 50 to 200 bar (about 5x10® to 20 xIO® Pa), at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements may be configured to exert a force/load of between 10 to 200 tonnes/per area of the inflatable element.

In the retracted configuration, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may comprise a length L of about 2 to 3 m. The length of at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may be considered as the extent or dimension of the/each inflatable element in the direction of the longitudinal or central axis A, as indicated in Figure 4a.

In the retracted configuration, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may comprise a width W of about 200 to 500mm, (e.g. about 0.2 to 0.5m). The width W of at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may be considered as the extent or dimension of the/each inflatable element in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal or central axis A, as indicated in Figure 4a. In the retracted configuration, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may comprise an area of about 0.4 to 1.5m^.

The pressure of the fluid supplied to the gripping apparatus 14 may be monitored, for example by the actuation system 18. Monitoring of the pressure of the fluid supplied to the gripping apparatus may allow the connection between the leg 8a and the seafastening socket 4a to be monitored or confirmed.

At least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may be provided in the form of a bellows or bellows unit. The at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may be made of a sheet material or sheet-like material. The sheet material may have a thickness of about 1 to 5 mm, such as for example about 3mm.

The sheet material may be or comprise a metal, such as for example steel or a steel alloy, e.g. stainless steel, or another iron alloy. The at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may comprise a first portion 24’ and a second portion 24” (indicated in Figure 4d). The first and second portions 24’, 24” may be joined together, e.g. at the perimeter of the first and second portions 24’, 24”, to form an inflatable element 24. For example, the first and second portions 24’, 24” may be welded together to form the inflatable element 24. The first and second portions 24’, 24” may each be formed from the sheet material. In other embodiments at least one or each of the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may be provided as a unitary element.

Referring to Figures 4a to 4d, the plurality of inflatable elements 24 can be arranged to form a stack 25 of inflatable elements 24. In other words, the plurality of inflatable elements 24 may be arranged in series to form the stack 25 of inflatable elements 24. By arranging the plurality of inflatable elements to form a stack of inflatable elements, an extension of the gripping members 22 in the expanded configuration of gripping arrangement 16 may be increased. Alternatively or additionally, an extension of the gripping members 22 in the expanded configuration of the gripping arrangement 16 may be increased by increasing the number of inflatable element 24, which are comprised in or part of the gripping member 22.

The gripping apparatus 14 may comprises a connection arrangement 28, which is depicted in Figures 4a to 4e. The connection arrangement 28 is configured to supply the fluid to the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements. The connection arrangement 28 may be configured to connect or interconnect at least two inflatable elements, such as for example two adjacent inflatable elements, of the plurality of inflatable elements 24. The connection arrangement 28 may be configured to supply the fluid to the two inflatable elements. The connection arrangement 28 is configured to allow the fluid to be supplied from one of the two inflatable elements to another one of the two inflatable elements. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the connection arrangement may be configured to connect or interconnect all inflatable elements of the plurality of inflatable elements.

The connection arrangement 28 may comprise a connection element 30 configured for connecting or interconnecting at least two inflatable elements, such as for example two adjacent inflatable elements.

The connection arrangement 28 may comprise a plurality of connection elements 30. At least one or each connection element of the plurality of connection elements 30 may be arranged to connect or interconnect at least two inflatable elements of the plurality of inflatable elements 24. The plurality of connection elements 30 may be arranged to allow the fluid to be successively be supplied to each of the inflatable elements 24.

For example, when the gripping member 22 of the gripping apparatus 14 comprises a first, second, third and fourth inflatable elements 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d, as depicted in Figure 4e, a first connection element 30a may be arranged to interconnect the first and second inflatable elements 24a, 24b. A second connection element 30b may be arranged to interconnect the second and third inflatable elements 24b, 24c. A third connection element 30c may be arranged to interconnect the third and fourth inflatable elements 24c, 24d. This may allow the fluid to be successively supplied to the inflatable elements 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d and/or may allow successive expansion of the inflatable elements 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the plurality of connection elements may be arranged to simultaneously supply the fluid to each inflatable element, which may cause simultaneous expansion of each inflatable element.

The connection element 30, at least one or each connection element of the plurality of connection elements 30 comprises a resilient connection element. This may allow the connection elements to compensate for the expansion of the inflatable elements 24. The/each connection element 30 may be provided in the form of a hose, tube, pipe or the like.

The gripping apparatus 14 comprises an inlet 20 for supplying the fluid the gripping arrangement 16. The inlet 20 may be arranged to supply the fluid at least one or each gripping member 22. The inlet 20 may be arranged to supply the fluid to the at least one inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements 24. For example, the inlet 20 may be arranged to supply the fluid to the first inflatable element 24a. The supply of the fluid to the first inflatable element 24a may cause the first inflatable element to expand. The fluid may successively flow from the first inflatable element 24a to the second, third and fourth inflatable elements 24b, 24c, 24d, via the first, second and third connection elements. The flow of fluid into the first, second, third and fourth inflatable elements may cause at least one, some or all of the first, second, third and fourth elements 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d to expand. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments an inlet may be provided for each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements or may be arranged to simultaneously supply the fluid to each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements.

Figure 5a schematically depicts a plan view of an inflatable element 24 for use with the gripping apparatus 14. The inflatable element 24 depicted in Figure 5a comprises the first portion 24’ and the second portion 24”, which are connected at a centre line C. As described above, the/each inflatable element 24 may be formed from the sheet material, for example by releasing the first and second portions 24’, 24” from the sheet material. Subsequently to releasing the first and second portions 24’, 24” from the sheet material, the first and second portions 24’, 24” may be folded and/or joint together, e.g. at the perimeter of the first and second portions 24’, 24”, to form an inflatable element 24.

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments other methods or techniques may be used to form an/each inflatable element. For example, a/each inflatable element may be formed from a tubular portion. The tubular portion may be compressed, e.g. to a substantially flat element. The open end portions of the flat element may be sealed. e.g. welded, to form an inflatable element. An inlet and/or connection element may be connected to inflatable element, e.g. to allow for supply of the fluid to the inflatable element.

Figure 5b schematically depicts an inflatable element 24 comprising the inlet 20. An exemplary inlet for use with the gripping apparatus 14, e.g. inflatable element(s) 24, is depicted in Figure 5c. The/each inflatable element 24 may comprise a part of a connection arrangement 27. The connection arrangement 27 may be configured to connect the inlet 20 to the/each inflatable element 24. The inlet may comprise another part of the connection arrangement 27. For example, the other part of the connection arrangement 27 may be provided by a portion 20a of the inlet. The connection arrangement 27 may comprises a threaded connection arrangement 27. The portion 20a of the inlet 20 may comprise a threaded portion suitable for connection to a complementary connection portion (not shown) of the/each inflatable element.

Figures 6a and 6b depict a gripping member 22 of the apparatus positioned in the annular space between the leg 8a of the jacket 8 and the seafastening socket 4a. The left side of Figures 6a and 6b depict the gripping member 22 in the expanded configuration, in which all of the inflatable elements 24 of the gripping member are expanded. In the expanded configuration of the gripping member 22, the gripping member 22 extends in the annular space 10 and exerts a force and/or load onto the leg 8a of the jacket and the seafastening socket 4a. The force and/or load exerted by the gripping member 22 can be considered as acting in a radial direction, such as for example a radial inward and/or radial outward direction. The force and/or load exerted by the gripping member 22 may cause the leg 8a to be secured to the seafastening socket 4a and minimise or prevent any movement of the leg 8a relative to the seafastening socket 4a. Once the leg 8a or all legs of the jacket 8 have been secured to the respective seafastening sockets, the curable, settable or fixable material 12, e.g. the cement, (not depicted in Figures 6a and 6b) may be injected into the annular space 10 to permanently fix the jacket 8 to the seafastening socket 4, as described above.

The gripping apparatus 14 may be left in place after curing of the cement 12. The gripping apparatus 14 may be considered to be sacrificial.

The right side of Figures 6a and 6b depicts the gripping member 22 in the retracted configuration. In the embodiment depicted in Figures 6a and 6b, the gripping apparatus 14, e.g. the gripping members 22, is arranged on the leg 8a of the jacket 8. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the gripping apparatus may be provided with the seafastening socket.

Figure 7 depicts another embodiment of the system 2 for securing a support structure to a foundation. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 7, the foundation is provided in the form of a monopile 4 that has been driven into the seabed 6, for example by a pile hammer or the like. The monopile 4 may extend above a sea level 34

In the embodiment support structure for supporting a wind turbine structure is provided in the form of a transition piece 8. The transition piece 8 can be arranged on a free end of monopile 4, such as for example on an end portion of the monopile 4 that extends above the sea level 34, to surround a portion of the monopile 4. The transition piece 8 may comprise a tubular shape. The transition piece 8 may be configured to receive the free end of the monopile 4.

The system 2 depicted in Figure 7 comprises a gripping apparatus 14. The gripping apparatus 14 comprises any of the features of the gripping apparatus described above in relation to Figures 1 to 5.

In the embodiment depicted in Figure 7, the gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged in an annular space formed between the monopile 4 and the transition piece 8. The gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged in proximity of an opening 9 of the transition piece. The gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged on and/or around an outer periphery or circumference of the monopile 4, e.g. to fully or partially extend around the outer periphery or circumference of the monopile 4. Alternatively, the gripping apparatus 14 may be arranged on and/or around an inner periphery or circumference of the transition piece 8, e.g. to fully or partially extend around the inner periphery or circumference of the transition piece 8.

The transition piece 8 may comprise one or more levelling actuators. The levelling actuators may be configured to allow for orienting and/or levelling of the transition piece 8 relative to the monopile 4. The one or more levelling actuators may be provided in the form of one or more cylinder and/or piston arrangement 36, such as for example a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder and/or piston arrangement or the like.

The gripping apparatus 14 is configured to secure the transition piece 8 to the monopile 4, when the gripping arrangement 16 is in the expanded configuration. This may prevent movement of the transition piece 8 relative to the monopile 4, for example due to waves that may be present at the sea level 34, thereby allowing levelling of the transition piece 8 relative to the monopile 4. Once the transition piece 8 is levelled relative to the monopile 4, the transition piece 8 may be permanently fixed to the monopile, for example by injecting the settable, curable or fixable material 12 into the annular space 10 between the transition piece 8 and the monopile 4 and allowing the settable, curable, or fixable material 12 to become cured.

The exemplary gripping apparatus described herein allows a supporting structure, such as for example a jacket or transition piece, (or a portion thereof) to be secured to a foundation, such as for example seafastening sockets or a monopile, independent of weather condition. Once the supporting structure is secure to the foundation, the supporting structure may be permanently fixed to the foundation, e.g. without having to wait for improved weather conditions. This may allow for reduced costs for installing the supporting structure to the foundation.

The gripping apparatus may secure the supporting structure to the foundation and/or minimise or prevent movement of the supporting structure relative to the foundation, while the settable, curable or fixable material is cured. The settable, curable or fixable material can continue to cure, regardless of the weather conditions. This may provide a strong and robust connection between the supporting structure and the foundation.

It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary and that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A gripping apparatus, such as an offshore gripping apparatus, for securing a support structure to a foundation, the gripping apparatus comprising: a gripping arrangement, the gripping arrangement comprising a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein when the gripping arrangement is in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to secure at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the gripping arrangement is the in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to position and/or align the at least one portion of the support structure relative to the at least one portion of the foundation.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to minimise or substantially prevent movement of the at least one portion of the support structure relative to the at least one portion of the foundation to allow for fixation of the at least one portion of the support structure to the foundation.

4. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the gripping arrangement is configured for actuation between the retracted configuration and the expanded configuration.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the gripping arrangement is configured to be actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration by a fluid, such as a pressurised fluid, supplied to gripping arrangement.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein when the gripping arrangement is actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to exert a force and/or load to allow for securing of the at least one portion of the support to the at least one portion of the foundation.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein force exerted by the gripping arrangement comprises a radial force and/or load.

8. The apparatus according any preceding claim, wherein the gripping arrangement is configured for arrangement in an annular space formed between the at least one portion of the support structure and the at least one portion of the foundation.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein when the gripping arrangement is actuated from the retracted configuration into the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to expand radially into the annular space to secure the at least one portion of the support structure to the at least one portion of the foundation.

10. The apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the gripping arrangement is configured to conform to a space available in the annular space.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims, wherein the gripping apparatus is configured for arrangement at a position or pre-determined position on the at least one portion of the support structure and/or of the at least one portion of the foundation.

12. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein gripping arrangement comprises a plurality of gripping members.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of gripping members are configured for peripheral or radial arrangement in the annular space formed between the portion of the support structure and the portion of the foundation.

14. The apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the plurality gripping members are configured for arrangement on and/or around an inner or outer periphery or circumference of the at least one portion of the support structure

15. The apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the plurality gripping members are configured for arrangement on and/or around an inner or outer periphery or circumference of the at least one portion of the foundation.

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein each gripping member comprises at least one inflatable element or a plurality of inflatable elements.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable element comprises a deformable element.

18. The apparatus according to claim 16 or 18, wherein the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable element comprises or defines a chamber for receiving a fluid.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein when a fluid is supplied to the at least one inflatable element, at least one inflatable element or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements, the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements is configured to expand in a transverse direction.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claim 16 to 19, wherein the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements comprises a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein when each gripping member comprises the plurality of inflatable elements, the plurality of inflatable elements are arranged to form a stack of inflatable elements.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the apparatus comprises a connection arrangement configured to supply a fluid to the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the connection arrangement is configured to connect or interconnect at least two inflatable elements of the plurality of inflatable element.

24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the connection arrangement is configured to allow for a fluid to be supplied from one of the two inflatable elements to another one of the two inflatable elements.

25. The apparatus according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the connection arrangement comprises a connection element configured for connecting at least two inflatable elements.

26. The apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the connection element comprises a resilient connection element.

27. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 26, wherein the apparatus comprises an inlet for supplying a fluid to the at least one inflatable element, at least one or each inflatable element of the plurality of inflatable elements.

28. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the inlet is arranged to extend or protrude from the apparatus to allow for ease of access.

29. A first structure, such as a support structure, for supporting a wind turbine structure, the first structure comprising a gripping apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28.

30. The structure according to claim 29 configured for attachment to a second structure, such as a foundation.

31. The structure according to claim 29 or 30 comprising a jacket, tripod, or gravity base.

32. The structure according to claim 29 or 30 comprising a transition piece.

33. The structure according to claim 32, wherein the transition piece comprises one or more levelling actuators, the levelling actuators being configured to allow for orienting or levelling of the transition piece relative to a second structure, such as a foundation.

34. A second structure, such as a foundation, for mounting a first structure, such as a support structure, the second structure comprising a gripping apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28.

35. The structure according to claim 34, wherein the second structure comprises a monopile or one or more seafastening sockets.

36. The structure according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the second structure is configured for arrangement and/or installation on a seabed.

37. A system, such as an offshore system, for securing a support structure to a foundation, the system comprising: a foundation arranged on a seabed; a support structure for supporting a wind turbine structure, the support structure being configured for attachment to the foundation; and a gripping apparatus comprising a gripping arrangement, the gripping arrangement comprising a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein when the gripping arrangement is in the expanded configuration, the gripping arrangement is configured to secure at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation.

38. A method for securing a support structure to a foundation, the method comprising: arranging a foundation on a seabed; arranging a support structure for supporting a wind turbine on the foundation; and securing at least one portion of the support structure to at least one portion of the foundation by actuating a gripping arrangement of a gripping apparatus from a retracted configuration to an expanded configuration.

39. The method according to claim 38, wherein the method comprises injecting a curable, fixable or settable material into an annular space formed between the at least one portion of the support structure and the at least one portion of the foundation.

40. The method according to claim 39 comprising setting, fixing or curing the curable, fixable or settable material the annular space to allow the at least one portion of the support structure to become permanently fixed to the at least one portion of the foundation.

42. The method according to claim 40 comprising leaving or maintaining the gripping apparatus in the annular space.

42. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the at least one portion of the support structure comprises or defines an inner or outer periphery or circumference.

43. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28 or claim 42, wherein the at least one portion of the foundation comprises or defines an inner or outer periphery or circumference.

44. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28 or claim 42 or 43, wherein the gripping apparatus is or comprises a sacrificial gripping apparatus.