GB2640335A

GB2640335A - Floating wind turbine platform with ballast control system

Info

Publication number: GB2640335A
Application number: GB2408351.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Malek Sami
Original assignee: Technip Energies France SAS
Current assignee: Technip Energies France SAS
Priority date: 2024-04-11
Filing date: 2024-06-11
Publication date: 2025-10-15
Also published as: WO2025215424A1; TW202540536A; EP4658556A1; GB202408351D0

Abstract

A floating wind turbine platform 200 includes a floatable structure 200a that is deployable to a body of water and includes a plurality of semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. The semisubmersible columns may be interconnected. Each semisubmersible column defines an internal ballast volume. An intake port (202c, 204c, 206c, Fig 3A) in each semisubmersible column can place the internal ballast volume of the semisubmersible column into fluid communication with the body of water. A ballast control system 300 is provided to balance the floatable structure upon a detected inclination thereof. Balancing of the floatable structure may be accomplished by selectively controlling a transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns, and/or by selectively controlling a transfer of water from the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns to the body of water. A ballast control system for a floating platform and a method for its operation are also disclosed.

Description

FLOATING WIND TURBINE PLATFORM WITH BALLAST CONTROL SYSTEM

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to floating offshore platforms such as used to support offshore wind turbines, and more particularly although not necessarily exclusively, to an offshore floating wind turbine platform using ballast distribution for platform leveling.

Background

[0002] Floating offshore platforms are used for a variety of purposes. A wind turbine, for example, can be mounted to a floating wind turbine platform and deployed into a body of water to produce electrical energy from wind. Offshore locations are often desirable sources of wind power due to a lack of obstructions that are present on land. Locating wind turbines offshore also desirably decreases their visibility and conserves land resources as compared with land-based wind farms.

Summary

[0003] Example 1 is a floating wind turbine platform that includes a floatable structure deployable in a body of water. The floatable structure includes a plurality of semisubmersible columns that each define an internal ballast volume and have an intake port for fluid communication with the body of water. The floating wind turbine platform also includes at least one pump for selectively transferring water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes and the body of water. The floating wind turbine platform further includes a ballast control system including a sensor configured to detect an inclination of the floatable structure and a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the at least one pump for balancing the floatable structure, at least in part, by operating the at least one pump to adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns in response to a signal from the sensor.

[0004] Example 2 is Example No. 1, wherein the floatable structure comprises a generally triangular-shaped platform with a semisubmersible column located at each vertex thereof.

[0005] Example 3 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein the semisubmersible columns are generally cylindrical or generally polygonal in cross-sectional shape.

[0006] Example 4 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns each have a defined volume that prohibits overfilling of the semisubmersible columns with water.

[0007] Example 5 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein a baffle is located within the internal ballast volume of each semisubmersible column to restrict a movement of water therein.

[0008] Example 6 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, further comprising a plurality of pontoons interconnecting the semisubmersible columns, each pontoon providing at least some buoyancy to the floatable structure.

[0009] Example 7 is Example No. 6, wherein internal volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns, and wherein the controller is configured to cause the at least one pump to selectively distribute the water as ballast between the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons in addition to selectively transferring the water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes and the body of water.

[0010] Example 8 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein the at least one pump comprises an air compressor or a water pump.

[0011] Example 9 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein the at least one pump comprises a plurality of pumps and each internal ballast volume is in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the plurality of pumps.

[0012] Example 10 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein the controller of the ballast control system is configured to operate the at least one pump to balance the floatable structure only when the controller determines that an average inclination of the floatable structure exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

[0013] Example 11 is the Examples of any of the preceding paragraphs in this Summary, wherein the controller of the ballast control system is also communicatively coupled to one or more valves that are operatable by the controller in combination with the at least one pump to adjust the amount of the water in the at least one of the semisubmersible columns.

[0014] Example 12 is a ballast control system for a floating platform. The ballast control system includes at least one pump for transferring water as ballast between internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns of the floating platform and a body of water. The ballast control system also includes a sensor securable to the floating platform for generating a signal responsive to an inclination of the floating platform in the body of water, and a controller in communication with the at least one pump to selectively adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns in response to the signal.

[0015] Example 13 is Example No. 12, wherein the at least one pump comprises an air compressor or a water pump.

[0016] Example 14 is any of Example No. 12 to Example No. 13, wherein the at least one pump comprises a plurality of pumps and each internal ballast volume is in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the plurality of pumps.

[0017] Example 15 is any of Example No. 12 to Example No. 14, wherein the controller is also communicatively coupled to one or more valves that are operatable by the controller in combination with the at least one pump to adjust the amount of the water in the at least one of the semisubmersible columns.

[0018] Example 16 is any of Example No. 12 to Example No. 15, wherein the semisubmersible columns of the floating platform are interconnected by a plurality of pontoons, each pontoon providing at least some buoyancy to the floating platform. The internal volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns. In this example, the controller is configured to cause the at least one pump to selectively distribute the water as ballast between the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons in addition to selectively transferring the water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water.

[0019] Example 17 is a method that includes detecting, by a sensor, an inclination of a floating structure deployed in a body of water. The floating structure includes a plurality of semi-submerged semisubmersible columns, each column defining an internal ballast volume and having an intake port for fluid communication with the body of water. In response to a signal from the sensor, the floating structure is balanced, at least in part, by operating at least one pump to adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns by selectively transferring water as ballast between the internal ballast volume of the at least one of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water.

[0020] Example 18 is Example No. 17, further comprising operating one or more valves in combination with the at least one pump to selectively transfer the water as ballast between the internal ballast volume of the at least one of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water.

[0021] Example 19 is any of Example No. 17 to Example No. 18, wherein the semi-submerged semisubmersible columns are interconnected by a plurality of pontoons, each pontoon providing at least some buoyancy to the floating structure. The internal volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semi-submerged semisubmersible columns and the water as ballast is distributed between the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons in addition to being selectively transferred between the internal ballast volumes and the body of water.

[0022] Example 20 is any of Example No. 17 to Example No. 19, wherein the at least one pump is operated to balance the floating structure only when an average inclination of the floating structure is determined to exceed a predetermined threshold value.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] FIG. 1 is a schematic elevation view of a floating wind turbine according to one example configuration.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one example of a floating wind turbine platform with a ballast control system that transfers water between one or more semisubmersible columns and a body of water.

[0025] FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system for use with the floating wind turbine platform of FIG. 2 according to one example configuration.

[0026] FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system for use with the floating wind turbine platform of FIG. 2 according to another example configuration.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another example of a floating wind turbine platform with a ballast control system that transfers water between one or more semisubmersible columns and a body of water.

[0028] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system for use with the floating wind turbine platform of FIG. 4 according to one example configuration.

[0029] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system for use with the floating wind turbine platform of FIG. 4 according to another example configuration.

[0030] FIG. 6 is an elevation view schematically depicting the floating wind turbine of FIG. 1 at a level orientation within a body of water.

[0031] FIG. 7 is an elevation view schematically depicting the floating wind turbine of FIG. 1 at an inclined orientation within the body of water.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a floating wind turbine platform according to yet another example configuration having a central column and pontoons extending radially outwardly from the central column in a spoke-like pattern.

[0033] FIG. 9 is an enlarged, perspective view of the platform of FIG. 8.

[0034] FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a method for balancing a floating wind turbine platform according to one example configuration.

Detailed Description

[0035] The present disclosure relates to a floating platform and to a ballast control system for selectively transferring water as ballast between semisubmersible columns of the floating platform and a body of water, such as an ocean. Aspects of the disclosure are illustrated in the context of a floating wind turbine platform, but may also be applied to other floating offshore platforms. The floating wind turbine platform is a floatable structure that supports a turbine for generating electrical power from wind. The platform comprises one or more semisubmersible columns that provide buoyancy for the floatable structure. The turbine may be supported on a tower that extends upwardly from one of the columns to position the turbine in the wind. The weighting of the platform in any given configuration, and the changing dynamics of water and wind movement acting on the floatable structure, can cause movement or tilting of the platform with respect to a horizontal plane. In the present context, a floatable structure that is tilted with respect to the horizontal plane may also be said to have an inclination with respect to horizontal. The disclosed ballast control system may therefore be employed to balance the floatable structure by sensing tilt and selectively transferring water as a ballast between the semisubmersible columns and the body of water to maintain a desired inclination.

[0036] Any of a variety of platform configurations may be constructed having an arrangement of one or more semisubmersible columns. In some examples, the floatable structure may have a generally polygonal shape, with a semisubmersible column located at each vertex of the polygon. In one example, the floatable structure may be triangular, with three interconnected semisubmersible columns defining the vertices. In some examples, at least some of the connecting members may be pontoons that can contribute to the buoyancy of the floatable structure. Another platform configuration example includes a column at or near the center of the platform. The wind turbine tower may be attached to and extend upwardly from one of the semisubmersible columns in any of the configurations.

[0037] In any given configuration, the semisubmersible columns define internal ballast volumes for receiving ballast. Each of the semisubmersible columns may include an intake port for fluid communication with the body of water, such that water as ballast can be transferred between the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water for balancing the floatable structure to adjust its inclination under changing environmental conditions.

[0038] In some examples, the semisubmersible columns may be rigidly interconnected by connecting members of various configurations. For example, a set of upper and lower connecting members may extend between the columns. The connecting members may be hollow, in which case at least the lower connecting members may further serve as pontoons that can add buoyancy to the floatable structure. In some examples, each of the pontoons may also define an internal volume. In such an example, water as ballast may be contained within the internal volumes of the pontoons, and the location of the water may be adjustable to help balance the floatable structure. In some examples, the ends of each pontoon may be sealed by the outer wall surfaces of the semisubmersible columns between which the pontoon is connected, and water as ballast may be resultantly trapped within each pontoon. In other examples, the internal ballast volumes of the pontoons may be in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns. In such an example, water may be transferred between the semisubmersible columns and the pontoons, which may permit water to be distributed between the internal volumes of the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons, or for water to be distributed between the pontoons by passing the water through the semisubmersible columns.

[0039] The ballast distribution system includes one or more sensors that generates a signal responsive to an inclination of the floatable structure. For example, one or more sensors can detect an inclination of the floatable structure outside a preferred range of tilt. The ballast distribution system can include a controller with control logic for balancing the floatable structure by selectively transferring water as ballast in response to a signal from the sensor(s). The transfer of ballast may be caused by at least one pump, and the controller may further control the transfer of water ballast through any suitable valving arrangement that allows the desired transfer of ballast between the semisubmersible columns and the body of water. The controller may use signals (e.g., inclination readings) from the sensor(s) to control the amount of ballast that is transferred to or out of one or more of the semisubmersible columns.

[0040] In an example, the ballast control system may operate to maintain the floatable structure within a predefined range of inclination angle, or to correct the balancing of a floatable structure that has tilted outside the predefined range. The ballast control system may operate to balance the floatable structure by adjusting an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns in response to a signal from the sensor(s). In one example, balancing of the floatable structure may be accomplished by selectively transferring water as ballast from the internal ballast volume of one or more semisubmersible columns to the body of water. In another example, balancing of the floatable structure may be accomplished by selectively transferring water as ballast to the internal ballast volume of one or more semisubmersible columns from the body of water. In still another example, balancing of the floatable structure may be accomplished by selectively transferring water as ballast from the internal ballast volume of one or more semisubmersible columns to the body of water and also transferring water as ballast to the internal ballast volume of one or more semisubmersible columns from the body of water.

[0041] In some examples, the water may be selectively transferred through the intake ports in the semisubmersible columns. In other examples, the ballast control system may instead or additionally selectively transfer water as ballast from the body of water to the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns through the intake ports and force water out of the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns through a separate expulsion port. In an example wherein internal ballast volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns, the ballast control system can cause water as ballast to be selectively distributed between the semisubmersible columns or the pontoons in addition to causing water as ballast to be selectively transferred between the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water.

[0042] Illustrative examples follow and are given to introduce the reader to the general subject matter discussed herein rather than to limit the scope of the disclosed concepts. The following sections describe various additional features and examples with reference to the drawings in which like numerals indicate like elements, and directional descriptions are used to describe the illustrative aspects, but, like the illustrative aspects, should not be used to limit the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a schematic elevation view of a floating wind turbine according to one example configuration. As shown, the floating wind turbine 100 includes a floating wind turbine platform 102. In this example, the floating wind turbine platform 102 includes a floatable structure 104. The floatable structure 104 in this example is a platform of generally triangular shape, with three semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 each defining a vertex of the platform. A different number of semisubmersible columns and other arrangements of the columns are possible in other examples.

[0044] The semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 may be interconnected by connecting members. The connecting members may be rigid members. The connecting members may be hollow members. In the particular example of FIG. 1, pairs of upper connecting members 112 and lower connecting members 114 interconnect the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110. At least the lower connecting members 114 may be hollow and may serve as pontoons in some examples.

[0045] A wind turbine 116 may be affixed to the floatable structure 104, as shown. In this example, the wind turbine 116 includes an upwardly-extending tower 118, a nacelle 120 enclosing a gearbox and a generator, and a rotatable rotor blade 122. The wind turbine tower 118 is securely affixed to the top of a first column 106 in the example of FIG. 1, but other wind turbine locations and affixation techniques relative to the floatable structure 104 are possible in other examples.

[0046] As represented in FIG. 1, the floatable structure 104 has been deployed into a body of water 124 (e.g., an ocean). The surface 126 of the body of water 124 is indicated by a dashed line. The location of the surface 126 of the body of water 124 relative to the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 represents a typical submerged depth of the floatable structure 104 during normal operation. As shown, the lower connecting members 114 and the portion of the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 residing below the dashed line may be submerged at the typical submerged depth of the floatable structure 104. As also represented in FIG. 1, the floatable structure 104 has a substantially level floating orientation in the body of water 124. As such, there is no inclination of the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 or the wind turbine tower 118.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one example of a floating wind turbine platform 200 with a ballast control system that transfers water between one or more semisubmersible columns and a body of water. As shown, the floating wind turbine platform 200 can again include a floatable structure 200a and three semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. In this example, the floatable structure 200a includes a generally triangular-shaped platform, and the three semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 define (are located at) the vertices of the generally triangular shaped platform.

[0048] The semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 of the floatable structure 200a can be interconnected. Interconnection of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 can be accomplished, for example, using various types of solid or hollow connecting members provided in various quantities. In some examples, a single connecting member may extend between each of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. In other examples, an array of connecting members may extend between each of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. In some examples, the connecting members may form a truss structure or may be otherwise arranged between the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. In the particular example of the floating wind turbine platform 200 illustrated in FIG. 2, the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 are rigidly interconnected by cooperating pairs of upper connecting members 208 and lower connecting members 210. Each of the upper connecting members 208 and each of the lower connecting members 210 may be a rigid element. Each of the upper connecting members 208 and each of the lower connecting members 210 may be a hollow element. For example, the upper connecting members 208 and the lower connecting members 210 may be lengths of steel tubing of similar or dissimilar cross-sectional dimensions, which can be affixed to the semisubmersible columns by welding or otherwise. While the upper connecting members 208 and the lower connecting members 210 are shown to have a generally square or rectangular cross-sectional shape in the example of FIG. 2, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible. For example, one or both of the upper connecting member 208 and the lower connecting member 210 may have a round cross-sectional shape. In some examples, at least the lower connecting members 210 may also serve as pontoons that provide at least some buoyancy to the floatable structure 200a.

[0049] The semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 of the floatable structure 200a can be of various cross-sectional shape. For example, the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 may be generally polygonal, or generally cylindrical in cross-sectional shape as shown. The semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 can be elongate, having a length/height dimension that is greater than a cross-sectional dimension(s). Each of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 may be hollow or substantially hollow and may define an internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a for containing water ballast 202b, 204b, 206b. A given internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a may include the entire hollow interior of the respective semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206, or only a portion thereof. For example, each semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 may include an internal plate or a similar element to define a fillable internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a that is less than the overall internal volume of each semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206. The internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 may be defined such that the semisubmersible columns cannot be overfilled with ballast water. In this manner, the floatable structure 200a may be prevented from capsizing in the event of a ballast control failure. A baffle or a similar device may also be located within each internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of each semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 to restrict or otherwise regulate the movement of water therein, such as to prevent sloshing.

[0050] Each of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 may also include a corresponding intake port 202c, 204c (not visible in FIG. 2), 206c for fluid communication with a body of water in which the floatable structure 200a is deployed. Water may be selectively transferred between the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 and the body of water via the intake ports 202c, 204c, 206c. To facilitate the transfer of water ballast between the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a and the body of water, each semisubmersible column may include an air vent 202d, 204d, 206d. The intake ports 202c, 204c, 206c may be maintainable at a submerged position within the body of water when the floatable structure 104 floats within the body of water. The submerged position of the intake ports 202c, 204c, 206c can allow water from the body of water in which the floatable structure 200a is deployed to be admitted into the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 as a result of only the pressure of the water and a cooperating escape of the air located in the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a through the air vents 202d, 204d, 206d. As described in more detail below, in some examples, water can also be forced out of the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 through the intake ports 202c, 204c, 206c and into the body of water, such as by a pressurized air source.

[0051] FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system 300 for use with the floating wind turbine platform 200 of FIG. 2 according to one example configuration. Certain components of the ballast control system 300 are also depicted in FIG. 2. As shown, the ballast control system 300 can include a sensor 302 that is positionable and usable to detect an inclination of the floatable structure 200a. For example, the sensor 302 may detect an inclination of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 of the floatable structure 200a. The sensor 302 may detect an inclination of the floatable structure 200a along at least two axes, such as the X and Y axes indicated in FIG. 2. The sensor 302 may be provided in various configurations. For example, the sensor 302 may be a gyroscope, an accelerometer, an inclinometer, or another instrument that can detect an inclination of the floatable structure 200a. The output of the sensor 302 may be a signal that merely indicates the existence of an inclination of the floatable structure 200a, or a signal that also indicates a magnitude of an inclination of the floatable structure 200a.

[0052] The ballast control system 300 can also include a controller 304. The controller 304 can be communicatively coupled to the sensor 302 so as to receive the signals output by the sensor 302. The controller 304 may have a processor 306 and a memory 308. The memory 308 can include instructions 310 that are executable by the processor 306 for causing the processor 306 to perform operations. The operations may include balancing the deployed floatable structure 200a when the sensor 302 detects an inclination of the floatable structure 200a or when an average inclination of the floatable structure as determined by the processor 306 from signals from the sensor 302 exceeds a threshold average inclination.

[0053] In one example, the controller 304 can balance the floatable structure 200a by causing water to be selectively transferred from the body of water into the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of at least one of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c located therein. In another example, the controller 304 can balance the floatable structure 200a by causing ballast water to be selectively transferred from the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of at least one of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 to the body of water through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c located therein. In some cases, water may be transferred out of one or more of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 while water is transferred into one or more of the other semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. In another example, wherein the lower connecting members 210 form pontoons having internal ballast volumes that are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206, the controller 304 can balance the floatable structure 200a by causing water as the ballast to be selectively distributed between the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 via the pontoons, or to be distributed between the pontoons, in addition to selectively transferring the water as the ballast between the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 and the body of water.

[0054] An inclination of the floatable structure 200a will generally cause one or more of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 to become submerged to a greater depth than one or more of the other semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. To balance the floatable structure 200a, the controller 304 can cause water to be transferred out of the one or more semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 having a greater submerged depth, can cause water to be transferred from the body of water into the one or more semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 having a lesser submerged depth, or may cause a combination of both types of water transfer.

[0055] To selectively control a transfer of water from the body of water into the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of at least one of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c located therein, the ballast control system 300 may include at least one controllable exhaust valve in fluid communication with the air vents 202d, 204d, 206d in the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206. In the ballast control system 300 example of FIGS. 2 and 3A, each air vent 202d, 204d, 206d includes its own exhaust valve 312, 314, 316. That is, the air vent 202d of semisubmersible column 202 is in fluid communication with the exhaust valve 312, the air vent 204d of semisubmersible column 204 is in fluid communication with the exhaust valve 314, and the air vent 206d of semisubmersible column 206 is in fluid communication with the exhaust valve 316. Each of the exhaust valves 312, 314, 316 can also be communicatively coupled to the controller 304 of the ballast control system 300, and may be switchable between an open position and a closed position relative to its corresponding air vent 202d, 204d, 206d in response to a valve control signal from the processor 306. Consequently, the controller 304 can operate the exhaust valves 312, 314, 316 to either allow or prevent air from exiting the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 through the air vents 202d, 204d, 206d located therein.

[0056] When the exhaust valve 312, 314, 316 of a semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 is open, water from the body of water can enter the semisubmersible column through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c, as the entering water will cause air residing within the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible column to be expelled through the air vent 202d, 204d, 206d. When the exhaust valve 312, 314, 316 of a semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 is closed, water from the body of water can be prevented from entering the semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c due to the inherent incompressible nature of air trapped in the semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206.

[0057] To selectively control a transfer (removal) of water from the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of a semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 to the body of water through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c of the semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206, the ballast control system 300 may include at least one pump. The controller 304 can be communicatively coupled to the pump(s) such that the pump(s) is responsive to signals from the processor 306. In the example set forth in FIGS. 2 and 3A, the pump(s) can be a pressurized air source, such as but not limited to, an air compressor. The pressurized air source 318 may be in fluid communication with the internal volume of each semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206, such as via respective pressurized air supply lines 320, 322, 324. The pressurized air source 318 can supply pressurized air to the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of at least one of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 in response to a purge signal from the processor 306 of the controller 304.

[0058] In order to control the supply of pressurized air from the pressurized air source 318 to a given semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 of the floating wind turbine platform 200, the ballast control system 300 can further include at least one controllable pressurized air supply valve 326, 328, 330. The at least one controllable pressurized air supply valve 326, 328, 330 may be in fluid communication with the pressurized air supply lines 320, 322, 324 and may also be communicatively coupled to the controller 304. In the ballast control system 300 example of FIGS. 2 and 3A, each pressurized air supply line 320, 322, 324 can include its own controllable pressurized air supply valve 326, 328, 330. That is, the pressurized air supply line 320 is in fluid communication with the pressurized air supply valve 326, the pressurized air supply line 322 is in fluid communication with the pressurized air supply valve 328, and the pressurized air supply line 324 is in fluid communication with the pressurized air supply valve 330.

[0059] In some examples, each of the pressurized air supply valves 326, 328, 330 can be switched between an open position and a closed position in response to a purge signal from the processor 306 of the controller 304. Consequently, the controller 304 can cause the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of a given semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 to become pressurized by closing the exhaust valve 312, 314, 316 associated with the semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 and opening the pressurized air supply valve 326, 328, 330 associated with semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206. Depending on the nature of the pressurized air source 318, the controller 304 may also activate or otherwise operate the pressurized air source 318. For example, the controller 304 may energize or deenergize an air compressor. When the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of a semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 is sufficiently pressurized, water located within the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 will be expelled out of the internal ballast volume through the intake port 202c, 204c, 206c in the semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 and into the body of water.

[0060] FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system 350 for use with the floating wind turbine platform 200 of FIG. 2 according to another example configuration. The ballast control system 350 of FIG. 3B is similar to the ballast control system 300 of FIGS. 2 and 3A. For example, the ballast control system 350 can again include a sensor 352 to detect an inclination of the floatable structure 200a. The construction and operation of the sensor 352 of the ballast control system 350 may be the same as or similar to the construction and operation of the sensor 302 of the ballast control system 300. Likewise, the ballast control system 350 may include a controller 354 that is communicatively coupled to the sensor 352 so as to receive output signals therefrom. The controller 354 may have a processor 356 and a memory 358. The memory 358 can include instructions 360 that are executable by the processor 356 for causing the processor 356 to balance the floatable structure 200a in response to a signal from the sensor 352 as described above relative to the ballast control system 300.

[0061] In the case of the ballast control system 350, the individual controllable exhaust valves 312, 314, 316 of the ballast control system 300 may be replaced with a single controllable directional exhaust valve 362. The directional exhaust valve 362 may be in fluid communication with the air vents 202d, 204d, 206d in the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 and may be communicatively coupled to the controller 354 of the ballast control system 350. Likewise, the individual pressurized air supply valves 326, 328, 330 of the ballast control system 300 may be replaced with a single pressurized air supply valve 372. The pressurized air supply valve 372 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 354 of the ballast control system 350. The pressurized air supply valve 372 may be in fluid communication with a pressurized air source 364, which again may be an air compressor. The pressurized air supply valve 372 may also be in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 via pressurized air supply lines 366, 368, 370.

[0062] By shifting the directional exhaust valve 362 between different positions in response to a valve control signal from the processor 356 of the controller 354, airflow through the air vents 202d, 204d, 206d located in the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 can be selectively permitted or prevented. The flow of water from the body of water into the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 through the intake ports 202c, 204c, 206c in the semisubmersible columns can thereby be controlled in the same manner described above relative to use of the ballast control system 300 of FIG. 3A. When water removal is desired, the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of a selected semisubmersible column 202. 204, 206 can be pressurized by controlling the directional exhaust valve 362 as described above, and shifting the position of directional pressurized air supply valve 372 in response to a purge signal from the processor 356 to direct pressurized air from the pressurized air source 364 to the selected semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206. When the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of the selected semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 is sufficiently pressurized, water located within the internal ballast volume 202a, 204a, 206a of the selected semisubmersible column 202, 204, 206 will be expelled as described above relative to the ballast control system 300 of FIG. 3A.

[0063] In some examples, the ballast control system 300 or the ballast control system 350 may also operate to balance the floatable structure 200a by selectively distributing water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 and the body of water. For example, in the case of a floatable structure 200a wherein interconnecting pontoons include internal ballast volumes that are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a of the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206, the controller 304, 354 of the respective ballast control system 300, 350 may be operatable to cause the at least one pump to selectively distribute water as ballast between the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 via the pontoons in addition to selectively transferring water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes 202a, 204a, 206a and the body of water.

[0064] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another example of a floating wind turbine platform 400 with a ballast control system that transfers water between one or more semisubmersible columns and a body of water. The floating wind turbine platform 400 may include a floatable structure 400a. The design and construction of the floatable structure 400a may be similar to or the same as the floatable structure 200a of FIG. 2. For example, the floatable structure 400a may be a generally triangular-shaped platform having three semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 that are arranged at the vertices of the triangle. The semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 may also be interconnected by cooperating pairs of upper connecting members 408 and lower connecting members 410. Each of the upper connecting members 408 and each of the lower connecting members 410 may have any of the designs, shapes, constructions, or other properties disclosed above relative to the upper connecting members 208 and the lower connecting members 210 of the floatable structure 200a of FIG. 2. As with the floatable structure 200a, the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 of the floatable structure 400a may also be interconnected by other types and arrangements of connecting members, and at least some of the connecting members may serve as pontoons that lend buoyancy to the floatable structure 400a.

[0065] The semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 of the floatable structure 400a can have any of the designs, shapes, dimensions, constructions, or other properties disclosed above relative to the semisubmersible columns 202, 204, 206 of the floatable structure 200a of FIG. 2. Each of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 may again have an internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a for containing water as ballast 402b, 404b, 406b. A given internal ballast volume 404a, 404a, 406a may include the entire hollow interior of the respective semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406, or only a portion thereof. A baffle or a similar device may be located within each internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a to restrict or otherwise limit the movement of water located therein, such as to prevent or limit sloshing.

[0066] Each of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 may also include a corresponding intake port 402c, 404c (not visible in FIG. 2), 406c. The intake ports 402c, 404c, 406c may reside in a submerged position after deployment of the floatable structure 400a into a body of water. The intake ports 402c, 404c, 406c once again allow water from a body of water in which the floatable structure 400a is deployed to be transferred to the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 as a result of water pressure alone. To facilitate the transfer of water from the body of water into the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406, each column may include an air vent 402d, 404d, 406d. Air may be forced out of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 through the air vents 402d, 404d, 406d during entry of water from the body of water into the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406. Air may be drawn into the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 during expulsion (removal) of water from the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406. In this example, each semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 of the floatable structure 400a also includes a water expulsion port 402e, 404e (not shown in FIG. 4), 406e. As described in more detail below, water located within the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 may be removed therefrom and to the body of water by expelling the water through the expulsion ports 402e, 404e, 406e.

[0067] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system 500 for use with the floating wind turbine platform 400 of FIG. 4 according to one example configuration. Certain components of the ballast control system 500 are also depicted in FIG. 4. As shown, the ballast control system 500 can include a sensor 502 that is positionable and usable to detect an inclination of the floatable structure 400a. For example, the sensor 502 may detect an inclination of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 of the floatable structure 400a. The sensor 502 may be a device/instrument that is constructed and operates in any manner described above relative to the floating wind turbine platform 200 of FIG. 2.

[0068] The ballast control system 500 can also include a controller 504. The controller 504 can be communicatively coupled to the sensor 502 so as to receive output signals from the sensor 502. The controller 504 may have a processor 506 and a memory 508. The memory 508 can include instructions 510 that are executable by the processor 506 for causing the processor 506 to perform operations. The operations may include balancing the floatable structure 400a upon a detected inclination of the floatable structure 400a by the sensor 502. More specifically, when the sensor 502 detects an inclination of the floatable structure 400a, the processor 506 of the controller 504 can balance the floatable structure 400a as described above relative to the floatable structure 200a of FIG. 2 and the ballast control system 300 of FIGS. 2 and 3A.

[0069] In this example, the transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of at least one of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 through the intake port 402c, 404c, 406c located therein may be controlled by the ballast control system 500 using at least one controllable intake valve in fluid communication with the intake ports 402c, 404c, 406c. Each intake port 402c, 404c, 406c may include its own controllable intake valve 512, 514, 516. That is, the intake port 402c of semisubmersible column 402 is in fluid communication with the controllable intake valve 512, the intake port 404c of semisubmersible column 404 is in fluid communication with the controllable intake valve 514, and the intake port 406c of semisubmersible column 406 is in fluid communication with the controllable intake valve 516. Each of the controllable intake valves 512, 514, 516 can also be communicatively coupled to the controller 504 of the ballast control system 500 and may be switchable between an open position and a closed position in response to a valve control signal from the processor 506 of the controller 504. Opening and closing the controllable intake valves 512, 514, 516 respectively opens or closes pathways by which water from the body of water may pass through the intake ports 402c, 404c, 406c and into the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406. Consequently, the controller 504 can control a position of the controllable intake valve 512, 514, 516 to either allow or prevent the transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of an associated semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 through the intake port 402c, 404c, 406c located therein.

[0070] To selectively control expulsion (removal) of ballast water from the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of at least one of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406, the ballast control system 500 may include at least one pump. The pump(s) may be in fluid communication with the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of each semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406. The pump(s) may also be communicatively coupled to the controller 504. In this example of the ballast control system 500, each semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 includes its own pump 518, 520, 522. That is, the internal ballast volume 402a of semisubmersible column 402 is in fluid communication with the pump 518, the internal ballast volume 404a of semisubmersible column 404 is in fluid communication with the pump 520, and the internal ballast volume 406a of semisubmersible column 406 is in fluid communication with the pump 522. In some examples, the pumps 518, 520, 522 may be located externally of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 and may be in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the corresponding semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 by way of respective evacuation lines 524, 526, 528 connected therebetween. As indicated in FIG. 4, in other examples, the pumps 518, 520, 522 may instead be located within the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 with which the pumps are respectively associated.

[0071] In either case, each pump 518, 520, 522 is activatable in response to a purge signal from the processor 506 of the controller 504 to remove water from the semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 with which the pump 518, 520, 522 is associated. More specifically, the processor 506 of the controller 504 can control removal of the water from within the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of a given semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 by activating the corresponding pump 518, 520, 522 to expel the water out of the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a through the water expulsion port 402e, 404e, 406e of the semisubmersible column and into the body of water. When transferring water into or expelling water from any of the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406, air can enter or exit the internal ballast volumes through the respective air vents 402d, 404d, 406d.

[0072] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of a ballast control system 550 for use with the floating wind turbine platform 400 of FIG. 4 according to another example configuration. The ballast control system 550 of FIG. 5B is similar to the ballast control system 500 of FIGS. 4 and 5A. For example, the ballast control system 550 can again include a sensor 552 that is positionable and usable to detect an inclination of the floatable structure 400a. The construction and operation of the sensor 552 of the ballast control system 550 may be the same as or similar to the construction and operation of the sensor 302 of the ballast control system 300 described above. Likewise, the ballast control system 550 may include a controller 554 that is communicatively coupled to the sensor 552 so as to receive output signals therefrom. The controller 554 may have a processor 556 and a memory 558. The memory 558 can include instructions 560 that are executable by the processor 556 for causing the processor 556 to perform operations. The operations can include balancing the floatable structure 400a in response to a signal from the sensor 552 as described above relative to the ballast control system 300.

[0073] In the case of the ballast control system 550, the individual controllable intake valves 512, 514, 516 of the ballast control system 500 can be replaced with a single controllable directional intake valve 562. The controllable directional intake valve 562 may be in fluid communication with the intake ports 402c, 404c, 406c in the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 and may be communicatively coupled to the controller 554 of the ballast control system 550. Likewise, the individual pumps 518, 520, 522 of the ballast control system 500 can be replaced with a single pump 564, which can also be communicatively coupled to the controller 554 of the ballast control system 550. The single pump 564 can also be in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 via a controllable directional expulsion valve 566 and associated expulsion lines 568, 570, 572 that run between the directional expulsion valve 566 and the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406.

[0074] By shifting the directional intake valve 562 between different positions in response to a valve control signal from the processor 556 of the controller 554, the transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of a given semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 through the intake port 402c, 404c, 406c located therein can be selectively permitted or prevented. The flow of water from the body of water into the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 through the intake ports 402c, 404c, 406c can thereby be controlled in a manner similar to that described above relative to use of the ballast control system 500 of FIG. 5A. When water removal from an internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a of a given semisubmersible column 402, 404, 406 is desired, activating the pump 564 and shifting the position of the directional expulsion valve 566 in response to a purge signal from the processor 556 of the controller 554 can cause the water to be expelled out of the internal ballast volume 402a, 404a, 406a through the water expulsion port 402e, 404e, 406e therein and into the body of water. When transferring water into or expelling water from the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406, air can enter or exit the internal ballast volumes through the air vents 402d, 404d, 406d.

[0075] In some examples, the ballast control system 500 or the ballast control system 550 may operate to balance the floatable structure 400a by selectively distributing water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 and the body of water. For example, the floatable structure 400a may include hollow pontoons that interconnect the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406, and the pontoons may have internal volumes that are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes 402a, 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406. In such an example, the controller 504, 554 of the respective ballast control system 500, 550 may be operatable to cause the at least one pump to selectively distribute water as ballast between the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 using the internal volumes of the pontoons as water distribution pathways. Distributing water between the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 in this manner may be used in conjunction with selectively transferring water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes 402a. 404a, 406a of the semisubmersible columns 402, 404, 406 and the body of water to balance the floatable structure 400a.

[0076] The components of a given ballast control system may reside in various locations relative to an associated floating wind turbine platform. For example, the sensor and the other components of the ballast control system may be installed within the nacelle of a wind turbine attached to the floatable structure, or may otherwise be installed within an enclosure(s) that is affixed to the wind turbine or to the floatable structure. In some examples, the sensor and other components of the ballast control system may be powered by electrical energy produced by a generator of a wind turbine attached to the floatable structure. The sensor and other components of the ballast control system may instead or additionally be powered by electrical energy produced by solar cells or other devices.

[0077] In some examples, the processor of the controller may be communicatively coupled to the memory by a bus. The processor can include one processor or multiple processors. Non-limiting examples of the processor include a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microprocessor, or any combination of these. The Instructions may be stored in the memory, along with other information such as ranges of acceptable floatable structure inclination or other parameters.

[0078] As described, the instructions are executable by the processor for causing the processor to perform various operations. In some examples, the instructions can include processor specific instructions generated by a compiler or an interpreter from code written in any suitable computer-programming language, such as C, C++, C#, Java, or Python. Through the instructions, the processor may operate to balance a floatable structure.

[0079] The memory of the controller can include one memory device or multiple memory devices. The memory can be non-volatile and may include any type of memory device that retains stored information when powered off. Non-limiting examples of the memory include electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory (EEP ROM), flash memory, or any other type of non-volatile memory. At least some of the memory device can include a non-transitory computer-readable medium from which the processor can read the instructions. A non-transitory computer-readable medium can include electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage devices capable of providing the processor with the instructions or other program code. Non-limiting examples of a non-transitory computer-readable medium include magnetic disk(s), memory chip(s), ROM, random-access memory (RAM), an ASIC, a configured processor, optical storage, or any other medium from which a computer processor can read the instructions.

[0080] FIGS. 6-7 respectively depict the floating wind turbine 100 of FIG. 1 in various floating orientations relative to a body of water 124 in which the floating wind turbine 100 has been deployed. As explained above, when floating in the body of water 124, a portion of the floatable structure 104 of the wind turbine 100 may be submerged below the surface 126 of the body of water 124. Therefore, the lower connecting members 114 and portions of the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 of the floatable structure 104 are not visible in FIGS. 6-7.

[0081] FIG. 6 is an elevation view schematically depicting the floating wind turbine 100 of FIG. 1 at a level orientation within the body of water 124. It may be observed that when the floating wind turbine 100 is in a level orientation, the associated floatable structure 104 is aligned with a horizontal reference plane 105 normal to the direction of the force of gravity and the center lines C/L of the wind turbine tower 118 and the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 of the floatable structure 104 are all substantially vertically oriented and aligned with the direction of the force of gravity. Likewise, the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 of the floatable structure 104 may also be observed to have substantially the same submerged depth. This orientation of the floatable structure 104 allows the rotor blade 122 of the wind turbine 116 to rotate within a vertical plane, which can maximize the rotational efficiency of the rotor blade 122 and the output of a wind turbine generator driven by the rotor blade 122.

[0082] FIG. 7 is an elevation view of the floating wind turbine platform of FIG. 1 schematically depicting the floating wind turbine 100 in an inclined orientation within the body of water 124. As represented in FIG. 7, the tilted/inclined orientation of the floatable structure 104 and the overall floating wind turbine 100 may be caused, for example, by an imbalance on the net force distribution on the platform, such as from wind forces acting on the wind turbine 116 and the floatable structure 104. In this particular example, the wind forces are directed from right-to-left (as indicated by the arrows). Consequently, the downwind semisubmersible column 106 of the floatable structure 104 may be caused to have a greater submerged depth than the upwind semisubmersible column 110. Likewise, the floatable structure 104 is inclined relative to the horizontal reference plane 105 normal to the direction of the force of gravity, and the centerlines C/L of the wind turbine tower 118 and the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 all deviate leftward from vertical as shown and are not aligned with the direction of the force of gravity. Such an inclination can have a negative effect on the operation and efficiency of the rotor blade 122 of the wind turbine 116, which can reduce the output of the wind turbine generator driven by the rotor blade 122.

[0083] A ballast control system, such as one of the ballast control systems 300, 350 of FIGS. 3A and 3B or one of the ballast control systems 500, 550 of FIGS. 5A and 5B, can balance an inclined floatable structure 104 by controlling the water ballast contained within the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 of the floatable structure 104. In the case of the floating wind turbine inclination scenario presented in FIG. 7, a ballast control system can balance the floatable structure 104 by transferring water from the body of water into the internal ballast volume of at least semisubmersible column 110. According to another example, a ballast control system can balance the floatable structure 104 by removing water from the internal ballast volume of at least semisubmersible column 106 to the body of water. According to another example, a ballast control system can balance the floatable structure 104 by transferring water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume of at least semisubmersible column 110 and also removing water from the internal ballast volume of at least semisubmersible column 106 to the body of water. Water may also be selectively transferred to or from semisubmersible column 108. In any case, controlling the amount of water ballast present in the various semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 can result in a leveling of the floatable structure 104 and a corresponding return of the centerlines C/L of wind turbine tower 118 and the semisubmersible columns 106, 108, 110 of the floatable structure 104 into proper vertical alignment.

[0084] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a floating wind turbine platform 600 according to yet another example configuration having a central column 602. Multiple semisubmersible columns 604 are connected to the central column 602 by connecting members 606 that extend radially outwardly from the central column 602 in a spoke-like pattern. At least some of the connecting members 606 may be pontoons 608. Three semisubmersible columns 604 and three pontoons 608 are shown by way of example in FIG. 8, but any other suitable number of semisubmersible columns or pontoons may be used. A tower 610 for supporting a turbine 612 extends upwardly from the central column 602. The central positioning of the tower 610 may provide a more balanced platform weight distribution as compared with other examples disclosed herein.

[0085] FIG. 9 is an enlarged, perspective view of the platform 600 of FIG. 8.

The platform 600 may incorporate a ballast control system having elements similar to those of foregoing examples. For example, the semisubmersible columns 604 may each include an internal ballast volume 604a for receiving water as ballast, and an intake port 604b for facilitating fluid communication between the internal ballast volumes 604a and a body of water in which the floatable platform 600 is deployed. Each semisubmersible column 604 may also include an air vent 604d to allow air located in the internal ballast volumes 604a to escape during a transfer of water into or out of the semisubmersible columns 604. Fluid control members such as one or more pumps or valves can be provided for controlling a transfer of water between one or more of the internal ballast volumes 604a of the semisubmersible columns 604 and the body of water. In some examples, the fluid control members may distribute water between the semisubmersible columns 604 via the pontoons 608 in addition to selectively transferring water between the internal ballast volumes 604a of the semisubmersible columns 604 and the body of water.

[0086] FIG. 10 is a flowchart 700 representing a method of balancing a floating structure that is deployed in a body of water. The floating structure may be a component of a floating wind turbine platform.

[0087] As represented at block 702 of FIG. 10, a sensor can be used to detect an inclination of the floating structure. The sensor may be a component of a ballast control system associated with the floating wind turbine platform. The sensor may be, for example, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, or an inclinometer. As further indicated in block 702, the floating structure may include a number of semisubmersible columns that are semi-submerged within the body of water. Each semisubmersible column may define an internal ballast volume, and may include an intake port that places the internal ballast volume in fluid communication with the body of water.

[0088] At block 704, the floating structure may be balanced in response to a signal from the sensor. In some examples, the signal from the sensor may indicate only that an inclination of the floating structure exists. In other examples, the signal from the sensor may also indicate a magnitude of the inclination. It is also possible that a signal will only be sent by the sensor if a detected inclination of the floating structure exceeds some predetermined and preset threshold value.

[0089] As further indicated in block 704, balancing of the floating structure can be accomplished, at least in part, by operating at least one pump to adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns by selectively transferring water as a ballast between the internal ballast volume of the at least one of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water. The at least one pump may be operated by a controller, such as by a controller of the aforementioned ballast control system. In some examples, the at least one pump may be operated in conjunction with the operation of one or more controllable valves. The controller can be communicatively coupled to the sensor. The controller may have a processor and a memory. The memory can also include instructions that are executable by the processor for causing the processor to balance the floating structure in response to the signal from the sensor, such as by operating the at least one pump as described above. In some examples, the controller may use signals received from the sensor to determine an average inclination of the floating structure over some period of time. In such an example, the controller may also be configured to operate the at least one pump to balance the floating structure only when the controller determines that the average inclination of the floatable structure exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

[0090] For purposes of transferring water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns through the intake port, at least one controllable exhaust valve may be placed in fluid communication with an air vent present in each semisubmersible column. In some examples, each air vent may include its own controllable exhaust valve. Transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume of a given one of the semisubmersible columns through the intake port may be controlled by placing the at least one controllable exhaust valve, or each controllable exhaust valve, in the open position to allow air within the internal volume of the given semisubmersible column to be displaced by the incoming water and expelled through the air vent.

[0091] Alternatively, the air vents in the semisubmersible columns may always be open, and at least one controllable intake valve can instead be placed in fluid communication with the intake ports. The at least one controllable intake valve can then be used to control the transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns. In some examples, each intake port may include its own controllable intake valve. The transfer of water from the body of water to the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns through the intake port can then be controlled by placing the at least one controllable intake valve, or each controllable intake valve, in the open position or the closed position to respectively open or close a pathway through the intake port.

[0092] In another example, the floating structure can be balanced by selectively controlling removal of water from the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns to the body of water. In some examples, a pressurized air source can be placed in fluid communication with the internal ballast volume of each semisubmersible column. Removal of water from within the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns can then be accomplished by placing the at least one controllable exhaust valve, or each controllable exhaust valve, in the closed position to block the air vent, and thereafter pressurizing the internal ballast volume using the pressurized air source to expel the water out of the internal ballast volume through the intake port and into the body of water.

[0093] Alternatively, each of the semisubmersible columns may include a water expulsion port that is maintainable in a position above a surface of the body of water after deployment of the floating wind turbine platform into the body of water. At least one pump may also be in fluid communication with the internal ballast volume of each semisubmersible column. In some examples, each semisubmersible column may include its own pump. The removal of the water from within the internal ballast volume of at least one of the semisubmersible columns can be accomplished by activating the at least one pump to expel the water out of the internal ballast volume through the water expulsion port and into the body of water.

[0094] In still another example, water may be selectively transferred from the body of water into the internal ballast volume of at least one semisubmersible column through the intake port located therein, and also selectively transferred from the internal ballast volume of at least one semisubmersible column to the body of water. The transfer of water to the internal ballast volume of at least one semisubmersible column, and the removal of water from within the internal ballast volume of at least one semisubmersible column, can be performed according to any technique described herein.

[0095] While various types of pumps are disclosed herein relative to describing the system examples presented in the drawing figures, it is to be understood that neither the system examples present herein nor other system examples are limited to any particular type of pump. Rather, the term pump as used herein is intended to include any device that can raise, transfer, deliver, or compress fluids, such as by suction, by pressure, or by both.

[0096] The foregoing description of certain examples, including illustrated examples, has been presented only for the purpose of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Numerous modifications, adaptations, and uses thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is: 1. A floating wind turbine platform comprising: a floatable structure deployable in a body of water and including a plurality of semisubmersible columns each defining an internal ballast volume and having an intake port for fluid communication with the body of water; at least one pump for selectively transferring water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes and the body of water; and a ballast control system including a sensor configured to detect an inclination of the floatable structure and a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the at least one pump for balancing the floatable structure, at least in part, by operating the at least one pump to adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns in response to a signal from the sensor.
2. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the floatable structure comprises a generally triangular-shaped platform with a semisubmersible column located at each vertex thereof.
3. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the semisubmersible columns are generally cylindrical or generally polygonal in cross-sectional shape.
4. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns each have a defined volume that prohibits overfilling of the semisubmersible columns with water.
5. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein a baffle is located within the internal ballast volume of each semisubmersible column to restrict a movement of water therein.
6. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of pontoons interconnecting the semisubmersible columns, each pontoon providing at least some buoyancy to the floatable structure; optionally, wherein internal volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns, and wherein the controller is configured to cause the at least one pump to selectively distribute the water as ballast between the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons in addition to selectively transferring the water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes and the body of water.
7. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the at least one pump comprises an air compressor or a water pump.
8. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the at least one pump comprises a plurality of pumps and each internal ballast volume is in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the plurality of pumps.
9. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the controller of the ballast control system is configured to operate the at least one pump to balance the floatable structure only when the controller determines that an average inclination of the floatable structure exceeds a predetermined threshold value.
10. The floating wind turbine platform of claim 1, wherein the controller of the ballast control system is also communicatively coupled to one or more valves that are operatable by the controller in combination with the at least one pump to adjust the amount of the water in the at least one of the semisubmersible columns.
11. A ballast control system for a floating platform, the ballast control system comprising: at least one pump for transferring water as ballast between internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns of the floating platform and a body of water; a sensor securable to the floating platform for generating a signal responsive to an inclination of the floating platform in the body of water; and a controller in communication with the at least one pump to selectively adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns in response to the signal; optionally, wherein the at least one pump comprises an air compressor or a water pump, or wherein the at least one pump comprises a plurality of pumps and each internal ballast volume is in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the plurality of pumps.
12. The ballast control system of claim 11, wherein the controller is also communicatively coupled to one or more valves that are operatable by the controller in combination with the at least one pump to adjust the amount of the water in the at least one of the semisubmersible columns.
13. The ballast control system of claim 11, wherein: the semisubmersible columns of the floating platform are interconnected by a plurality of pontoons, each pontoon providing at least some buoyancy to the floating platform; internal volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns; and the controller is configured to cause the at least one pump to selectively distribute the water as ballast between the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons in addition to selectively transferring the water as ballast between the internal ballast volumes of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water.
14. A method comprising: detecting, by a sensor, an inclination of a floating structure deployed in a body of water, the floating structure including a plurality of semi-submerged semisubmersible columns, each column defining an internal ballast volume and having an intake port for fluid communication with the body of water; and in response to a signal from the sensor, balancing the floating structure, at least in part, by operating at least one pump to adjust an amount of water in at least one of the semisubmersible columns by selectively transferring water as ballast between the internal ballast volume of the at least one of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water; optionally, further comprising operating one or more valves in combination with the at least one pump to selectively transfer the water as ballast between the internal ballast volume of the at least one of the semisubmersible columns and the body of water, or wherein the at least one pump is operated to balance the floating structure only when an average inclination of the floating structure is determined to exceed a predetermined threshold value.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein: the semi-submerged semisubmersible columns are interconnected by a plurality of pontoons, each pontoon providing at least some buoyancy to the floating structure; and wherein internal volumes of the pontoons are in fluid communication with the internal ballast volumes of the semi-submerged semisubmersible columns and the water as ballast is distributed between the semisubmersible columns via the pontoons in addition to being selectively transferred between the internal ballast volumes and the body of water.