Solve Wind
The challenge
SOLVE WIND — a joint venture between Liftra and Esteyco — is developing the next generation of the ATOMS platform, a towable semi-submersible system that enables major component replacement on offshore wind turbines without jack-up vessels, which are both costly and damage the seabed. While the first-generation platform targets turbines up to 5 MW, the second generation is designed to support operations on fixed-bottom and floating turbines up to 15 MW, with broader capabilities across both maintenance and installation scenarios.
As the platform scales to handle significantly larger turbines and more demanding sea states, the control and monitoring systems must evolve accordingly. SOLVE WIND engaged Leap to research and develop the control paradigm and architecture for the next-generation platform — ensuring that the system can operate safely, predictably, and with reduced dependence on on-site personnel.
The solution
Leap's work centers on building the simulation and validation foundation needed to develop and verify control strategies for the platform. This includes the development of a time-domain simulation environment, implementation of the core dynamics required to reproduce control-relevant responses, and the establishment of a validation workflow against OrcaFlex closed-loop reference signals. The framework has been validated against first-generation reference data and is being extended to support second-generation modelling.
In parallel, Leap is contributing to controller tuning and benchmarking efforts for an adaptive control strategy, as well as early-stage concept development for advanced remote control and monitoring of unmanned offshore operations — a capability that will be essential as the platform moves toward commercial deployment.
The project is co-funded through the Eurostars programme, reflecting the innovation ambition and cross-border collaboration that underpin the development effort.
The project is ongoing, and Leap is proud to contribute to a technology that has the potential to reshape how the offshore wind industry approaches turbine maintenance and installation at scale.
Read more about SOLVE WIND and their innovative ATOMS platforms here: SOLVE WIND
Ydelser
"As we scale ATOMS to handle larger turbines, the control and monitoring systems become critical to safe and efficient operations. Leap has been a strong partner in building the foundation we need to validate our control strategies with confidence."