GB2606410A

GB2606410A - Buoyant offshore platform and a method of deploying buoyant offshore platforms

Info

Publication number: GB2606410A
Application number: GB2106575.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Foster Graham
Original assignee: Marine Power Systems Ltd
Current assignee: Marine Power Systems Ltd
Priority date: 2021-05-07
Filing date: 2021-05-07
Publication date: 2022-11-09

Abstract

A buoyant offshore platform 102 for supporting a renewable energy system 116 in a body of water 104 is provided. The buoyant offshore platform comprises a base portion 112, 120 for submerging below the surface 106 of said body of water; a top portion 114 for remaining above said surface of said body of water; one or more mooring lines 108 for fixing the buoyant offshore platform to the bed 110 of said body of water; and a tensioning means 130 for applying tension to the one or more mooring lines. The buoyant offshore platform comprises a floating configuration (Fig 3B) in which the platform is positioned substantially floating on said surface of said body of water and a deployed configuration in which the base portion is submerged beneath said surface of said body of water and the top portion remains above said surface of said body of water. In use, the tensioning means is arranged to apply tension to the one or more mooring lines such that the buoyant offshore platform transitions between the floating configuration and the deployed configuration. A method of installation and a reciprocating tensioning means is also disclosed.

Description

BUOYANT OFFSHORE PLATFORM AND A METHOD OF DEPLOYING BUOYANT OFFSHORE PLATFORMS

Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates to a buoyant offshore platform for supporting renewable energy systems and a method of deploying buoyant offshore platforms.

Background to the Disclosure

Wave energy and offshore wind energy have both been identified as leading technology options to decarbonise the global energy system. The economic viability and practical feasibility of these renewable energy systems are heavily reliant on the ease and cost of installation and maintenance of these systems offshore. One solution to minimise the costs of these systems is to install the wave energy and wind energy systems offshore on floating or buoyant platforms.

Buoyant offshore platforms are beneficial in that the foundations required for a buoyant offshore platform are typically quicker and easy to install on the bed of the body of water, and the foundations can be more easily laid at greater depths. Furthermore, a complete buoyant offshore platform may be manufactured on or adjacent to land and can then be towed out to the desired location rather than assembled offshore piece-by-piece. However, problems exist with current state-of-the-art buoyant offshore platforms and with the methods and equipment used to install them offshore. Objects and aspects of the present disclosure seek to alleviate

at least these problems with the prior art.

Summary of the Disclosure

The present disclosure is directed to a buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system in a body of water, the platform having a submerged operating configuration in which a base portion thereof is submerged below a surface of said body of water, and a top portion thereof remains above said surface of said body of water. The top portion is preferably arranged to support a renewable energy system (which may, for example, comprise a wind turbine), a renewable energy storage device, and/or a compartment, building or room (which may, for example, be used to house or store platform control or maintenance equipment) above the surface of the body of water at all times in use. The platform of the disclosure comprises a tensioning means arranged to apply tension to one or more mooring lines in order to deploy the platform to the submerged operating configuration. In some preferable embodiments, the tensioning means is arranged to apply a first tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines such that the mooring lines become taut, and to subsequently provide a second tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines such that the platform is partially submerged in the body of water in the submerged operating configuration. In preferable embodiments, the second tensioning force is applied to said one or more mooring lines in a cyclic manner. Such a force is preferably provided by a reciprocating tensioning device having a one-way (unidirectional) mode arranged to engage the one or more mooring lines such that movement thereof is restricted to a single direction. Such one-way (unidirectional) movement may be provided, for example, by a pawl member of the reciprocating tensioning device, the pawl member being arranged to be moved by the tensioning device in a reciprocating manner such that the one or more mooring lines is moved by the pawl member in the single direction. An example such a pawl member, in an embodiment wherein the one or more mooring lines comprises a chain, may include a chain stopper. In particular examples, the reciprocating tensioning device is arranged to apply the second tensioning force to two such mooring lines, and in some embodiments may be arranged to apply the second tensioning force to one of the two mooring lines independently of the other of the two mooring lines. The present disclosure is further directed to a said reciprocating tensioning device for use with a buoyant offshore platform, a kit of parts comprising a said platform and a said tensioning device, and a method of deploying a said platform to the submerged operating configuration.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system in a body of water having a surface and a bed, said buoyant offshore platform comprising: a base portion for submerging below said surface of said body of water; a top portion for remaining above said surface of said body of water; one or more mooring lines for fixing the buoyant offshore platform to said bed of said body of water; and a tensioning means for applying tension to the one or more mooring lines; wherein the buoyant offshore platform further comprises a floating configuration in which the buoyant offshore platform is positioned substantially floating on said surface of said body of water; wherein the buoyant offshore platform comprises a deployed configuration in which the base portion is submerged beneath said surface of said body of water and the top portion remains above said surface of said body of water; and further wherein, in use, the tensioning means is arranged to apply tension to the one or more mooring lines fixed between the buoyant offshore platform and said bed of said body of water such that the buoyant offshore platform transitions between the floating configuration and the deployed configuration.

In some embodiments, the tensioning means preferably comprises a pulley affixed to the platform, the pulley arranged to be driven by a drive means and further arranged to apply a first tensioning force to one or more said mooring lines when driven by the drive means.

In some embodiments, said tensioning means is preferably arranged to apply the first tensioning force to two said mooring lines.

In some embodiments, the platform preferably further comprises a mooring line storage compartment, and wherein the pulley is further arranged to direct said one or more mooring lines into the mooring line storage compartment.

In some embodiments, the mooring line storage compartment is preferably located within a hollow structural element of the top portion.

In some embodiments, the pulley is preferably permanently affixed to the platform.

In some embodiments, the drive means is preferably a motor, and wherein the motor is in removable engagement with the pulley.

In some embodiments, the tensioning means preferably further comprises a static unidirectional mechanism having a tensioning mode in which the unidirectional mechanism is arranged to restrict movement of one or more said mooring lines to a single direction; and a release mode in which the unidirectional mechanism is arranged to permit free movement of said mooring lines in any direction.

In some embodiments, the static unidirectional mechanism is preferably permanently affixed to the platform such that the static unidirectional mechanism is immovable relative to the platform.

In some embodiments, the tensioning means preferably further comprises a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism, the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism comprising: a first hydraulic ram and a second hydraulic ram, each of said first and second hydraulic rams affixed to a corresponding moveable unidirectional member having: a tensioning mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to restrict movement of one of said mooring lines to a first direction, and further arranged to be moved by the corresponding hydraulic ram in the first direction to apply a second tensioning force to said mooring line; and a release mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to be moved along said mooring line in a second direction opposing the first direction by the corresponding hydraulic ram; wherein each said unidirectional member is arranged to transition between the tensioning mode and the release mode in a reciprocating manner.

In some embodiments, each said unidirectional member may preferably be moved by the corresponding first or second hydraulic ram independently of the other unidirectional member.

In some embodiments, the one or more mooring lines preferably comprise a chain, and wherein the second unidirectional mechanism is a chain jack.

In some embodiments, the second unidirectional mechanism is preferably removably affixed to the platform.

In some embodiments, the platform preferably further comprises a power line arranged to transmit power to and from the platform when the power line is in operative engagement with the platform, wherein the power line is arranged to be moved into operative engagement with the platform by the tensioning means.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism arranged to apply a tensioning force to two mooring lines of a platform in as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the unidirectional mechanism comprising: a first hydraulic ram and a second hydraulic ram, each of said first and second hydraulic rams affixed to a corresponding moveable unidirectional member having: a tensioning mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to restrict movement of one of said mooring lines to a first direction, and further arranged to be moved by the corresponding hydraulic ram in the first direction to apply a tensioning force to said mooring line; and a release mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to be moved along said mooring line in a second direction opposing the first direction by the corresponding hydraulic ram.

In some embodiments, the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism is preferably arranged to apply the tensioning force to said two mooring lines independently of one another.

In some embodiments, the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism is a chain jack.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit of parts comprising: a buoyant offshore platform in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure; and a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of deploying a buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system, the method comprising: moving a buoyant offshore platform along a surface of a body of water to a location; fixing one or more mooring lines to the bed of the body of water; attaching the buoyant offshore platform to the one or more mooring lines via a tensioning means; applying a first tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines using the tensioning means, such that the one or more mooring lines become taut; applying a second tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines such that a portion of the buoyant offshore platform becomes submerged in the body of water.

In some embodiments, the method preferably comprises the additional step of: affixing a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism to the platform; wherein the second tensioning force is applied using the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism.

In some embodiments, the method preferably further comprises the additional step of: detaching the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism from the platform.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system in a body of water having a surface and a bed, said buoyant offshore platform comprising: a base portion for submerging below said surface of said body of water; a top portion for remaining above said surface of said body of water; one or more lines for fixing the buoyant offshore platform to said bed of said body of water; and a tensioning means for applying tension to the one or more lines; wherein the buoyant offshore platform comprises a deployed configuration in which the base portion is submerged beneath said surface of said body of water and the top portion remains above said surface of said body of water; wherein the buoyant offshore platform further comprises a floating configuration in which the buoyant offshore platform substantially floats on said surface of said body of water; and further wherein, in use, the tensioning means is arranged to apply tension to the one or more lines fixed between the buoyant offshore platform and said bed of said body of water such that the buoyant offshore platform transitions between the floating configuration and the deployed configuration.

In this way, there is provided a buoyant offshore platform which can be transported in its floating configuration to a predetermined site and then transitioned to its deployed configuration. Transporting the buoyant offshore platform in the floating configuration is advantageous as it reduces the drag or resistance of the buoyant offshore platform in the body of water.

In the deployed configuration, the buoyant offshore platform remains partially submerged as the one or more lines fixed between the bed of the body of the water and the buoyant offshore platform prevent the buoyant offshore platform from floating.

The buoyancy of the buoyant offshore platform acts in a substantially opposing direction to the direction that the lines are fixed between the offshore platform and the bed of the body of water. The opposing interplay of the buoyancy and the fixed one or more lines tightens the one or more lines. By tightening the one or more lines the buoyant offshore platform is stabilised in its deployed configuration. Accordingly, in the deployed configuration the movement of the buoyant offshore platform in all directions in the body of water should be substantially less than the movement of the buoyant offshore platform in the floating configuration on the body of water. The stabilisation of the buoyant offshore platform is key for many of its intended uses as it allows it to act as, for example, a stable offshore platform for supporting a wind turbine.

Preferably, in use, the one or more lines are fixed between the top portion of the buoyant offshore platform and said bed of said body of water. Fixing the line to the top portion of the buoyant offshore allows the affixment to be more easily adjusted or serviced as it is above the surface of the body of water.

Preferably, in use, the one or more lines are detachably attached to the buoyant offshore platform. In this way, the buoyant platform can be released from the line to easily transition the buoyant offshore platform from its deployed configuration to its floating figuration.

Preferably, the offshore buoyant platform comprises a set of attachment points for the affixment of the one or more lines. Preferably, each attachment point in the set of attachment points are located at different predefined positions such that, in use, and in the deployed configuration, the proportion of the base portion submerged beneath said surface of said body of water is controlled by attaching the line to one of the attachment points in the set of attachment points. Preferably, each attachment point in the set of attachment points are located at different predefined positions for controlling the proportion of the base portion submerged in the deployed configuration. In this way, the one or more lines can be attached to different positions on the offshore buoyant platform. The different positions of the set of attachment points may affect the angle of the buoyant platform or the depth that it is submerged at. Additionally, the attachment points can be used to account for differences in the height of the bed of the body of water such that when the offshore platform is attached by two of more lines the offshore platform remains level.

Preferably, the buoyant offshore platform comprises one or more directing members located on the base portion, wherein a directing member is arranged to direct one of the lines of the one or more lines between the buoyant offshore platform and said bed of said body of water. The directing members change the angle or direction of the lines of the one or more lines. The directing member or members act to urge and to route the lines. Preferably, the directing members are guides which are tubular members, of any shape and size to accommodate the lines and the direction change required. Preferably, the directing members are fairleads.

Preferably, the buoyant offshore platform comprises a first directing member arranged to direct one of the lines of the one or more lines in a direction substantially horizontally parallel with the plane occupied by the base portion, and through which the base portion moves between a deployed and a floating position. Preferably, the first directing member is arranged to direct one of the lines of the one or more lines at a location intermediate the base portion and the top portion.

Preferably the buoyant offshore platform comprises a second directing member arranged to direct one of the lines of the one or more lines in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane occupied by the base portion, and through which the base portion moves between a deployed and a floating position.

Preferably the buoyant offshore platform comprises a plurality of lines for fixing the buoyant offshore platform to said bed of said body of water. A plurality of lines builds redundancy and resilience into the system.

Preferably the buoyant offshore platform comprises a plurality of directing members, wherein each line of said plurality of lines is directed by at least one of the directing members of said plurality of directing members.

Preferably the tensioning means of the buoyant offshore platform is located on the top portion of the buoyant offshore platform. More preferably, the tensioning means comprises at least one or more winches.

Preferably the tensioning means of the buoyant offshore platform comprises a block and tackle. Preferably a single continuous rope around the block transmits the tensioning force around the block and pulleys and so provides tension between the lines as required. The pulley system of a block and tackle is advantageous in exerting the tensioning force as the pulleys exhibit a mechanical advantage and amplifying the force applied to the rope.

Preferably the buoyant offshore platform further comprises a crane arranged so as to move the tensioning means.

Preferably the buoyant offshore platform comprises an open framework. Such a framework of open areas and a lattice structure provides overall strength and robust construction suitable for withstanding impact, continual fluid flow and surge around the platform and any rough, stormy sea conditions.

In accordance with a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a kit of parts, the kit of parts comprising: an offshore platform in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure; and a winch for removably mounting at the top portion of the buoyant platform and detachably attaching to the line, such that, in use, the winch is arranged to submerge the base portion of the buoyant platform by winching the buoyant platform towards the bed of the body of water.

Preferably, the kit of parts further comprises a reeving pulley for acting on the line between the winch and the bed.

Preferably, the kit of parts further comprises a tensioning line for extending between the line and the winch.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of deploying an offshore platform for supporting renewable energy systems, the method comprising: moving an offshore platform comprising a buoyant platform along a surface of a body of water to a location; fixing a line to the bed of the body of water; attaching the buoyant platform to the line via a winch, winching the buoyant platform relative to the line, such that a portion of the buoyant platform becomes submerged in the body of water and the winch remains above the surface of the body of water.

Preferably, the method of deploying an offshore platform comprises the additional steps of: disconnecting the line from the winch; and attaching the line to a portion of the offshore platform above the surface of the body of water, such that the offshore platform remains partially submerged in the body of water.

Preferably, the method of deploying an offshore platform comprises the additional step of: directing the line extending between the winch and bed of the body of water using guides located on the buoyant platform.

It will be appreciated that any features described herein as being suitable for incorporation into one or more aspects or embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to be generalizable across any and all aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure. Other aspects of the present disclosure can be understood by those skilled in the art in light of the description, the claims, and the drawings of the present disclosure. The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the claims.

Detailed Description

Specific embodiments will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 depicts an offshore platform in accordance with the present disclosure, where the offshore platform is in use and in the deployed configuration; FIGs. 2A to C illustrate a close up view of a tensioning means of the platform of FIG 1; FIGs. 3A to F show a stepwise procedure in which the offshore platform of FIG 1 is deployed, FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, taking the form of a chain jack, FIG. 5 illustrates a cutaway view of a structural element of a top portion of the platform, arranged to store a portion of one or more mooring lines of the platform in use; FIG. 6 illustrates the offshore platform of FIG 1 in use in the deployed configuration, wherein the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism of FIG. 4 is being removed from the platform; FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up view of the unidirectional mechanism during the removal process occurring in FIG. 6; and FIG. 8 shows a flow chart depicting the steps of an example embodiment of a method of deploying a buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system in

accordance with an aspect of the disclosure.

FIG 1 of the drawings depicts an example embodiment 100 of a buoyant offshore platform 102 in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, in a deployed or in-use configuration. In the in-use or deployed configuration shown, the offshore platform 102 is partially submerged within a body of water 104. The position of the offshore platform 102 beneath a surface 106 of the body of water 104 is controlled by a plurality of mooring lines 108, which each couple the offshore platform 102 to a corresponding anchor point 109 positioned in communication with a bed 110 of the body of water 104. A buoyancy of offshore platform 102, provided by a plurality of buoyancy tanks 112 thereof, acts against a tensioning force provided by the mooring lines 108 such that platform 102 is stable in the submerged configuration shown.

The offshore platform 102 comprises an open framework 114 supported on buoyancy tanks 112. In the embodiment 100 shown, the offshore platform 102 is for supporting a renewable energy system and, in particular, for supporting a wind turbine 116. Other embodiments of an offshore platform 102 in accordance with the present disclosure for supporting other suitable pieces of equipment are envisaged.

The open framework 114 may take on a number of possible forms, provided that in such forms, resistance to movement of a medium, such as water or air, is minimised. Examples of such an open framework 114 may include, for instance, a lattice frame, a reticulated frame, a perforated frame, a foraminous frame, a porous frame, a penetrable frame, and/or a skeletal frame.

In this embodiment 100, the open framework 114 has a shape which substantially resembles a triangle-based pyramid or tetrahedron. A base 118 of the open framework 114 is partly formed from three edge structural members 120 which extend along the edges of a triangle.

The three edge structural members 120 meet at three vertices 122 at the corners of the triangular base 118. Positioned at each of the three vertices 122 is a corresponding pair of buoyancy tanks 112, cooperating to provide a centre of buoyancy at the corresponding said vertex 122.

The open framework 114 further comprises three angled structural members 124 which each extending from a said vertex 122 of the base 118, towards an upper portion taking the form of a support platform 126 located at an apex of the triangle-based pyramid open framework 114 and supported by the three angled structural members 124.

The open framework 114 further comprises a vertical structural member (not shown) which extends perpendicularly from the underside of the support platform 126 to the base 118, where it is supported by three horizontal structural members (not shown) which each extend from a corresponding said vertex 122 to a centre of the base 118. The stability of the platform 102 126 and structural integrity is provided by this open framework structure, such that the support platform 126 is arranged to support the wind turbine 116.

The buoyancy tanks 112 may take on a number of possible forms, providing that in such forms, the buoyancy tanks 112 provide sufficient buoyancy to the offshore platform 102 such that the offshore platform 102 floats on the surface 106 of a body of water 104 when not in the deployed or in-use configuration shown, i.e. coupled by the mooring lines 108 to the bed 110.

The support platform 126 is supported at the apex on the open framework 114 by the three angled structural members 124 and the vertical structural member. In this embodiment, the support platform 126 comprises a socket (not shown) for accepting and retaining the tower of the wind turbine 116. Other embodiments with different features located on the support platform 126 are envisaged. Additionally, embodiments with any suitable number of angled structural members and/or vertical structural members, each taking any suitable form, will be envisaged.

In the deployed or in-use configuration shown, the offshore platform 102 is tethered to the bed 110 of the body of water 104 by six mooring lines 108. The mooring lines 108 are positioned in pairs, each pair extending from their corresponding anchor point 109 to a vertex 122 of the platform 102. From the vertex 122, the mooring line pair extends along a corresponding angled structural member 124 and is affixed to the platform by way of a corresponding tensioning means 130.

Referring now to FIG. 2A to FIG. 20, a close-up view of the tension means 130 is shown. The tensioning means 130 comprises a chain pulley 132 and a static unidirectional chain stopper 134. In the embodiment shown, the pulley 132 and the chain stopper 134 are permanently affixed to an upper portion of the corresponding angled structural member 124. The pulley 132 is configured to be driven by a motor 136, which in the embodiment shown is removable. Each tensioning means 130 comprises a pulley 132 and chain stopper 134 as shown and each such means 130 are arranged to apply a first tensioning force to a corresponding pair of said mooring lines 108 when the pulley 132 is driven by a motor 136.The chain stopper 134 comprises a release mechanism which in the example embodiment shown comprises hydraulic rams each arranged to move a corresponding pawl member of the chain stopper from a closed position, in which the corresponding mooring line is permitted to move only in a single direction toward the pulley, to an open position in which the corresponding mooring line is free to move in any direction. The chain stopper 134 in the embodiment 100 shown is therefore arranged to restrict movement of one of the corresponding pair of mooring lines 108 independent of the other of the pair of mooring lines 108. Embodiments will be appreciated wherein the pawl members of the chain stopper 134 may be moved between the open position and the closed position by any suitable mechanism.

Referring to FIGs. 3A to 3G, a stepwise deployment process is depicted for deploying the platform of FIG. 1.

In the configuration depicted in FIG. 3A, the six mooring lines 108 are preinstalled at the desired deployment location, each said mooring line affixed to a corresponding anchor point 109 on the bed 110 of the body of water 104. At an end distal to the anchor point 109, the mooring lines each comprise a pennant buoy 140 temporarily affixed thereto, the buoy 140 marking the location of the corresponding mooring line 108. In addition to the mooring lines 109, a power cable 138 is positioned proximate the desired location, the power cable 138 also having a pennant buoy 140 temporarily affixed thereto. In use, the power cable 138 is affixed to a renewable energy capturing device, which in the presently-depicted embodiment is a wind turbine 116, such that electrical energy output by the renewable energy capturing device may be transmitted away from the platform 102 to be used. Mooring lines and array cable are pre-installed at site and marked with pennant buoys. The offshore platform 102 is then towed to the desired location, as the platform 102 floats on the surface 106 of the body of water 104 as previously described.

Referring to FIG. 3B, a deployment step subsequent to that depicted in FIG. 3A is shown. In the step shown, a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism 142 is positioned on the platform proximate each of said tensioning means 130. In the embodiment shown, the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism 142 (as described in relation to FIG. 4) takes the form of a chain jack, but other suitable mechanisms will be appreciated as described herein. A single pilot line 144 extending from each tensioning means 130 of the platform 102 is affixed to each mooring line 108 in turn. Subsequent to this step, and as shown FIG. 30, the motor 136 of each pulley 132 is actuated such that the pulley applies a first tensioning force to each said mooring line 108 affixed thereto, such pre-tensioning being used to pull each said mooring line 108 taut. The pulley 132 is arranged to direct excess mooring line 108 to a mooring line storage compartment 152 (depicted in FIG. 5) located in each of said angled structural members 124.

Powering of the motor 136 is performed by a deployment vessel 146, but embodiments will be appreciated wherein any suitable powering means is used. Subsequently, and as depicted in FIG. 3D, the power cable 138 is affixed to a corresponding pilot line 147, before being hoisted into engagement with a power socket (not shown) on-board the platform, using the deployment vessel 146 as shown in FIG. 3E.

FIG. 3F shows a deployment step subsequent to that depicted in FIG. 3E, in which the reciprocating unidirectional mechanisms 142 are engaged with each corresponding mooring line 108 pair, and while powered by the deployment vessel 146, provide a second tensioning force to each said mooring line 108 such that the platform 102 is partially submerged in the body of water 104 at the deployed or in-use configuration. The reciprocating unidirectional mechanisms 142 reciprocate in order to apply the second tensioning force in a cyclic manner. The use of such a mechanism to apply the second tensioning force in this manner to two mooring lines simultaneously preferably provides an efficient deployment means. The ability to apply the second tensioning force to each line of the pair of the mooring lines independently of the other preferably provides the required flexibility and redundancy during deployment, which can often be in a remote location where access to the platform to overcome issues during deployment may be restricted.

Referring to FIG. 4 a close-up view of a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism 142 is shown in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, and as described in relation to the deployment process depicted in FIG. 3A to FIG. 3F. The mechanism 142 shown is suitable for inclusion in a kit of parts in accordance with a further aspect. The reciprocating unidirectional mechanism 142 comprises a pair of hydraulic rams 148 each arranged to move a corresponding moveable chain stopper 150 in a reciprocating manner. As described previously, the hydraulic rams 148 of the mechanism 142 may be operated independently in order to move the corresponding chain stopper 150 independently of the other. The chain stoppers 150 each comprise a release mechanism which, in the embodiment shown, comprises a hydraulic ram arranged to move a corresponding pawl member of the respective chain stopper 150. The release mechanism is arranged to switch the mechanism 142 from a tensioning mode wherein movement of the mooring line is restricted to a direction toward the pulley, and a release mode in which free movement of the mooring line is permitted.

Referring to FIG. 5, as previously described, the pulley 132 of a tensioning means 130 is arranged to direct excess mooring 108 line into a cavity or compartment within the platform, which in the example shown is a mooring line storage compartment 152 located within a hollow section of each angled structural member 124. Such a storage compartment preferably improves the safety of a platform, wherein excess slack mooring line may pose a hazard to deployment or maintenance crew.

Referring to FIG. 6, a final example deployment step is depicted in which the reciprocating unidirectional mechanisms 146 are each sequentially removed from the platform 102 by the deployment vessel 146, more closely shown in FIG. 7. The detachable nature of the mechanism 142 preferably aids in deployment of several such platforms within a short space of time, which can be beneficial during fluctuating weather patterns which would otherwise pose a risk to deployment vessels and crew members.

Referring to FIG. 8, steps of an example method 800 in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure is shown by way of a flowchart. In the embodiment 800 shown, the method comprises the steps of: moving a buoyant offshore platform along a surface of a body of water to a location 802; fixing one or more mooring lines to the bed of the body of water 804; attaching the buoyant offshore platform to the one or more mooring lines via a tensioning means 806; applying a first tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines using the tensioning means, such that the one or more mooring lines become taut 808; affixing a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism to the platform 810; applying a second tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines using the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism, such that a portion of the buoyant offshore platform becomes submerged in the body of water 812.

It will be appreciated that the method 800 shown may be performed using a platform, reciprocating unidirectional mechanism, and/or kit of parts as described herein.

It will be appreciated that the above described embodiments are given as examples only and that alternatives are also considered within the scope of the disclosure. For example the construction details can be any shape or size, or any suitable material. The numbers of mooring lines, platform vertices and any other details can be varied and the tensioning options can be of any suitable means. The mooring lines in the depicted examples are chains, and as such the tensioning means depicted are primarily suited to chains. Other embodiments will be appreciated wherein the mooring lines take any suitable form, such as for example a natural or synthetic rope as described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system in a body of water having a surface and a bed, said buoyant offshore platform comprising: a base portion for submerging below said surface of said body of water; a top portion for remaining above said surface of said body of water; one or more mooring lines for fixing the buoyant offshore platform to said bed of said body of water; and a tensioning means for applying tension to the one or more mooring lines; wherein the buoyant offshore platform further comprises a floating configuration in which the buoyant offshore platform is positioned substantially floating on said surface of said body of water; wherein the buoyant offshore platform comprises a deployed configuration in which the base portion is submerged beneath said surface of said body of water and the top portion remains above said surface of said body of water; and further wherein, in use, the tensioning means is arranged to apply tension to the one or more mooring lines fixed between the buoyant offshore platform and said bed of said body of water such that the buoyant offshore platform transitions between the floating configuration and the deployed configuration.
2 A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tensioning means comprises a pulley affixed to the platform, the pulley arranged to be driven by a drive means and further arranged to apply a first tensioning force to one or more said mooring lines when driven by the drive means.
3. A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 2, wherein said tensioning means is arranged to apply the first tensioning force to two said mooring lines.
4 A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the platform further comprises a mooring line storage compartment, and wherein the pulley is further arranged to direct said one or more mooring lines into the mooring line storage compartment.
5. A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 4, wherein the mooring line storage compartment is located within a hollow structural element of the top portion.
6. A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the pulley is permanently affixed to the platform.
7. A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the drive means is a motor, and wherein the motor is in removable engagement with the pulley.
8 A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning means further comprises a static unidirectional mechanism having a tensioning mode in which the unidirectional mechanism is arranged to restrict movement of one or more said mooring lines to a single direction; and a release mode in which the unidirectional mechanism is arranged to permit free movement of said mooring lines in any direction.
9 A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 8, wherein the static unidirectional mechanism is permanently affixed to the platform such that the static unidirectional mechanism is immovable relative to the platform.
A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in any one of claims, wherein the tensioning means further comprises a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism, the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism comprising: a first hydraulic ram and a second hydraulic ram, each of said first and second hydraulic rams affixed to a corresponding moveable unidirectional member having: a tensioning mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to restrict movement of one of said mooring lines to a first direction, and further arranged to be moved by the corresponding hydraulic ram in the first direction to apply a second tensioning force to said mooring line; and a release mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to be moved along said mooring line in a second direction opposing the first direction by the corresponding hydraulic ram; wherein each said unidirectional member is arranged to transition between the tensioning mode and the release mode in a reciprocating manner.
11. A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 10, wherein each said unidirectional member may be moved by the corresponding first or second hydraulic ram independently of the other unidirectional member.
12. A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the one or more mooring lines comprise a chain, and wherein the second unidirectional mechanism is a chain jack.
13.A buoyant offshore platform as claimed in claim 10, claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the second unidirectional mechanism is removably affixed to the platform.
14 A reciprocating unidirectional mechanism arranged to apply a tensioning force to two mooring lines of a platform in as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the unidirectional mechanism comprising: a first hydraulic ram and a second hydraulic ram, each of said first and second hydraulic rams affixed to a corresponding moveable unidirectional member having: a tensioning mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to restrict movement of one of said mooring lines to a first direction, and further arranged to be moved by the corresponding hydraulic ram in the first direction to apply a tensioning force to said mooring line; and a release mode in which the unidirectional member is arranged to be moved along said mooring line in a second direction opposing the first direction by the corresponding hydraulic ram.
15. A reciprocating unidirectional mechanism as claimed in claim 14, wherein the unidirectional mechanism is arranged to apply the tensioning force to said two mooring lines independently of one another.
16. A reciprocating unidirectional mechanism as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism is a chain jack.
17. A kit of parts comprising: a buoyant offshore platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 and a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16.
18. A method of deploying a buoyant offshore platform for supporting a renewable energy system, the method comprising: moving a buoyant offshore platform along a surface of a body of water to a location; fixing one or more mooring lines to the bed of the body of water; attaching the buoyant offshore platform to the one or more mooring lines via a tensioning means; applying a first tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines using the tensioning means, such that the one or more mooring lines become taut; applying a second tensioning force to the one or more mooring lines such that a portion of the buoyant offshore platform becomes submerged in the body of water.
19. A method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the method comprises the additional step of: affixing a reciprocating unidirectional mechanism to the platform; wherein the second tensioning force is applied using the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism.
20. A method as claimed in claim 19, wherein the method further comprises the additional step of: detaching the reciprocating unidirectional mechanism from the platform.