Wind turbine blade and method of manufacturing a wind turbine blade

Abstract

The invention relates to a wind turbine blade component, a method for manufacturing such a wind turbine blade component and a wind turbine blade comprising such a wind turbine blade component. The wind turbine blade component comprises a stack of layers arranged in a first group (30) and in a second group (31), wherein the layers of each group have the same width (W1, W2). The layers of each group are offset successively in the edgewise direction to form a tapered edge profile. The first group (30) of layers may be arranged relative to the second group (31), or in an alternating order. The layers of the first group (30) may further have a first length (L1) that is greater than a second length (L2) of the layers of the second group (31).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a wind turbine blade component for a wind turbine blade, the wind turbine blade component comprising a plurality of layers of a fiber material, wherein the plurality of layers comprises a first group of layers and at least a second group of layers.

[0002] The invention further relates to a wind turbine blade comprising such a wind turbine blade component and to a method of manufacturing a wind turbine blade component. Background Art

[0003] It is known that a spar cap or main laminate is integrated into the blade shell of a wind turbine blade during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, the main laminate may be attached to the blade shell during a post-moulding process. The main laminates are interconnected via one or more shear webs, I-beams or box beams. It is further known that the main laminate comprises one or more laminated stacks of fiber materials which are impregnated with a suitable resin and finally cured.

[0004] US2011 / 0243750 A1 discloses a spar cap formed by a stack of individual layers of fiber material cut into individual lengths and arranged to form a stack having a tapered end profile in the lengthwise or longitudinal direction. The individual layers are further cut to form a uniform lengthwise profile having a constant width, or to form a tapered lengthwise profile in which the width tapers from the root to the tip end of the blade.

[0005] US2012 / 0082554 A1 discloses at least two stacking parts, each stacking part comprising a plurality of individual layers having uniform width in the longitudinal direction. The individual stacking parts are joined together in the longitudinal direction to form a spar cap. In one embodiment, the layers in each stacking part are individually offset relative to each other to form a zig-zag shaped end profile extending uniformly in the edgewise direction. In an alternative embodiment, one or more fingers protrude from oppositely facing ends of each layer of each stacking part in the longitudinal direction. The oppositely facing fingers form an overlapping finger joint extending in the edgewise direction. This solution provides a complex joint which requires precise alignment and lay-up of each stacking part.

[0006] US2009 / 0169392 A1 discloses a spar cap formed by a trapezoidal stack of individual layers, wherein the width of each layer tapers from one side to an opposite side. In an alternative embodiment, the stack comprises a plurality of layers of the same width, the plurality of layers of the same width being divided into two groups, the two groups being offset in opposite edgewise directions to a relatively wide rectangular shaped cross-sectional profile. Each group partially overlaps the inclined end surface of an adjacent core element, so that the overlapping edges of the group form an edge profile extending substantially perpendicular to the inclined end surface. The opposite edges of the group form an edge profile extending parallel to the thickness direction. Due to the angular transition between the outer skin of the blade shell and the tapered end of the core element, wrinkles are formed in the overlapping portions of the layers. In addition, since the spar cap only partially extends along the tapered end of the core element, a relatively large recess is formed in the inner blade surface.

[0007] US 5755558 A discloses a stacked beam structure comprising one group of high modulus UD fiber material and another group of low modulus US fiber material, wherein the layers in each group are offset in the same edgewise direction. Each group of layers has a layer width that is different from the layer width of the adjacent group.

[0008] US 2012 / 0009070 A1 discloses a wind turbine blade shell comprising a plurality of pre-cured shell elements arranged in at least two separate layers. The shell elements in each layer are angled in different edgewise directions. Summary of the invention

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a wind turbine component, a wind turbine blade and a method which solve the above mentioned problems.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wind turbine component, a wind turbine blade and a method which save fiber material and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0011] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a wind turbine component, a wind turbine blade and a method which allow fast and simple laying-up of fibre material.

[0012] The object of the present invention is achieved by a wind turbine blade component for a wind turbine blade, the wind turbine blade component extending in a longitudinal direction from a first end to a second end and further extending in an edgewise direction from a first edge to a second edge, the wind turbine blade component comprising a plurality of layers of fiber material arranged in a stack extending in a thickness direction, wherein the stack defines a first side and a second side, wherein the first edge and the second edge are arranged between the first side and the second side, the plurality of layers comprising a first group of layers and at least a second group of layers, the layers of the first group having a first local width and the layers of the second group having a second local width, wherein the layers of at least one of the first group and the second group are continuously offset in at least one edgewise direction from the first side to the second side, wherein the layers of the first group are offset in a first edgewise direction to form a first edge profile and the layers of the second group are offset in a second edgewise direction to form a second edge profile, characterized in that the first edgewise direction is opposite to the second edgewise direction.

[0013] This provides a wind turbine blade component with an alternative stacking configuration that allows a simplified laying process. Compared to conventional methods, a reduced number of rolls with different widths of fiber material can be used to advantageously form the stack. This also reduces the amount of cutting required, since all layers in each group have the same width. Therefore, any adjustment in width can be performed in a common step for all layers of a selected group. The layers can also be pre-cut to the required width and arranged on the rolls. This further reduces the total number of article numbers required to manufacture the wind turbine blade component. This allows an optimized use of structural materials to minimize wind turbine blade mass and costs.

[0014] The wind turbine blade component is formed as a main laminate, which may be integrated into an aerodynamic part of a blade shell during manufacturing, or manufactured separately and subsequently attached to the aerodynamic part of the blade shell. The wind turbine blade component has a length measured in a longitudinal direction between a first end and a second end, a width measured in an edgewise direction between a first edge and a second edge, and a thickness measured in a thickness direction between a first side and a second side. The shape and size of the wind turbine blade component may be adapted to the aerodynamic profile and / or geometry of the wind turbine blade.

[0015] A wind turbine blade component is formed from a plurality of individual layers (e.g., plies) of fiber material arranged in a stacked configuration. The individual layers are divided into two or more groups, each group comprising a plurality of layers. For example, each group comprises two, three, four, five, six, seven or more layers. The individual layers in each group have a local length, a local width, and a local thickness. The number of layers in each group may be uniform, or may vary relative to one another. The total number of groups may be selected depending on the desired structural stiffness and the profile of the wind turbine component.

[0016] The individual layers in at least one group are continuously offset from one side to an opposite side in one edgewise direction. The width offset of each layer can be determined relative to a reference layer (i.e., a selected layer within the group or within another group). For example, the relative width offset can increase uniformly from the first side to the second side, or vice versa. For example, the relative width offset can vary between the first side and the second side. The individual first edges of the layers together form a first edge profile, and the individual second edges of the layers together form a second edge profile. The first edge profile and the second edge profile can face in the same overall edgewise direction or in opposite edgewise directions. This reduces the formation of wrinkles in the fiber material and allows the corresponding edge profile to match the corresponding end profile of the adjacent core element so that the wind turbine component and the core element form a substantially continuous or smooth transition at the inner blade surface. This also provides an improved interface between the wind turbine blade component and the aerodynamic component of the wind turbine blade.

[0017] Offsetting the individual layers forms a tapered joint defining a gradual transition between the wind turbine blade component and the adjoining core element. This provides an optimal transition in stiffness and reduces stress concentrations in the tapered joint.

[0018] Furthermore, the layers of the first group are offset in a first edgewise direction to form a first edge profile, and the layers of the second group are offset in a second edgewise direction to form a second edge profile.

[0019] Preferably, the stack comprises a first group of layers and at least a second group of layers. The number of layers in the first group and the second group may vary or may be the same. Individual layers in the first group may be offset in a first edgewise direction such that individual first edges or individual second edges together form a first edge profile. Individual layers in the second group may be offset in a second edgewise direction relative to the first edgewise direction such that individual first edges or individual second edges together form a second edge profile. Optionally, the stack may comprise further groups, wherein individual layers in these further groups may be offset in further edgewise directions different from the first edgewise direction and the second edgewise direction.

[0020] The relative width offset of the first group and / or the relative width offset of the second group may be selected depending on the aerodynamic profile and the geometry of the wind turbine blade. For example, the relative width offset of the first group may be equal to the relative width offset of the second group. Thus, the first edge profile and the second edge profile may be equally angled or symmetrical with respect to the thickness direction. For example, the relative width offset of the first group may be different from the relative width offset of the second group. Thus, the first edge profile and the second edge profile may be differently angled with respect to the thickness direction. This allows the respective edge profiles to form a tapered joint with a relatively short or long transition measured in the edgewise direction.

[0021] Furthermore, the first edgewise direction is opposite to the second edgewise direction. Alternatively, the first edgewise direction is equal to the second edgewise direction.

[0022] The individual layers of the first group and the individual layers of the second group may be offset in opposite edgewise directions so that the wind turbine blade component may form a zigzag edge profile. Here, the zigzag profile may be defined by the combined first edge profile or the second edge profile of the above group. This allows the respective edge profiles to form a relatively short tapered joint, such as a substantially V-shaped joint, with two tapered edge portions.

[0023] Alternatively, the individual layers of the first group and the individual layers of the second group may also be offset in the same edgewise direction, so that the individual first edge profiles or the individual second edge profiles may extend parallel to each other or at different angular positions. Both the individual layers of the first group and the second group may be offset relative to the same starting point, i.e. the reference layers may be aligned. This allows the respective edge profiles to form an alternative tapered joint having two tapered edge portions, e.g. a step or sawtooth shaped joint.

[0024] The individual layers of the first and second groups may also be offset relative to different starting points, i.e. the reference layers may be offset. The first side may thus be formed by the first outermost layer of the combination of the first and second groups, and the second side may thus be formed by the second outermost layer of the combination of the first and second groups. This allows the respective outermost layers to form a side having a combined total width that is greater than the local width of each outermost layer.

[0025] Alternatively, the individual layers of the first group and the individual layers of the second group may also be continuously offset in the same edgewise direction, so that the width offset increases continuously in the thickness direction. Thus, the individual first edge profiles or the individual second edge profiles may be continuous edge surfaces with different angled portions. This allows the respective edge profiles to form a relatively long tapered joint with a single tapered edge portion.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the outermost layer of the first group is aligned with the outermost layer of the second group in the thickness direction.

[0027] The first group may include a first outermost layer facing the first side and a second outermost layer facing the second side. The first outermost layer or the second outermost layer may be used as a reference for offsetting other layers of the first group. Similarly, the second group may include a first outermost layer facing the first side and a second outermost layer facing the second side. The first outermost layer or the second outermost layer may be used as a reference for offsetting other layers of the second group.

[0028] The reference layer of the first group may be aligned with the reference layer of the second group in the thickness direction. Alternatively, the two reference layers may be offset relative to each other in the edgewise direction. For example, the first outermost layer or the second outermost layer of the first and second groups may be used as the reference layer. This allows the outermost layer of the first group to partially or completely overlap with the adjacent outermost layer of the second group in the edgewise direction, or vice versa.

[0029] In addition, the local width offset between the reference layer and the selected layer in the first group can be equal to or different from the local width offset between the corresponding layers in the second group. For example, the local width offset between the first outermost layer and the second outermost layer of the first group and the local width offset between the first outermost layer and the second outermost layer of the second group can be the same. The same can be applied to any other corresponding layers between the first group and the second group.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the layers of the second group are offset relative to the outermost layers of the first group.

[0031] Alternatively, the first outermost layer or the second outermost layer of the first group may be used as a reference layer for offsetting the layers of the second group. Thus, the reference layer may be partially overlapped by the adjacent outermost layer of the second group. Optionally, the adjacent outermost layer may be further aligned with the reference layer for offsetting the layers of the first group. Thus, a larger relative width offset is formed between the two adjacent outermost layers of the first group and the second group.

[0032] According to one embodiment, at least the layers of the first or second group are arranged in a consecutive order in the thickness direction.

[0033] The individual layers of the first group may be arranged in a continuous order along the thickness of the stack. Furthermore, the individual layers of the second group may be arranged in a continuous order along the thickness of the stack. Thus, the first group and the second group may be arranged adjacent to each other. This allows the layers of each group to be laid in a continuous process.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the layers of the first group and the layers of the second group are arranged in an alternating order in the thickness direction.

[0035] Alternatively, the individual layers of the first group and the individual layers of the second group may be arranged in an alternating sequence along the thickness of the stack. This allows the layers of the first group and the second group to be laid up in an alternating process.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the multiple layers form a tapered stack, wherein the total width of the tapered stack gradually shrinks from the first side to the second side, or the total thickness of the tapered stack gradually shrinks from the layer defining one of the first side and the second side to the layer defining the other of the first side and the second side.

[0037] The total number of individual layers defining the stack may be arranged to form a tapered profile extending in the edgewise direction and in the thickness direction. The tapered profile may define the total width and the total thickness of the wind turbine blade component. For example, but not limited to, the stack may include at least ten layers, preferably between twenty and eighty layers.

[0038] For example, the individual layers of the first and second groups may be arranged to form a substantially uniform cross-sectional profile having a substantially uniform overall width along the thickness of the wind turbine blade component. For example, the uniform cross-sectional profile may be shaped as a parallelogram. The overall thickness of the wind turbine blade component may taper in the edgewise direction from the layer defining the first side to the layer defining the second side, or vice versa. Here, a "parallelogram" is defined as any geometric shape having parallel first and second sides and parallel first and second edges. This allows for a substantially uniform overlap between adjacent layers in the stack.

[0039] For example, the individual layers of the first and second groups may be arranged to form a trapezoidal shaped cross-sectional profile, wherein the overall width may taper along the thickness of the wind turbine blade component from the first side to the second side, or vice versa. Here, "trapezoidal" is defined as any geometric shape having parallel first and second sides and non-parallel first and second edges.

[0040] The tapered stack may form a subcomponent of a larger overall tapered stack of a wind turbine blade component. The third group of layers and the fourth group of layers may be arranged to form at least another subcomponent of the overall tapered stack. The other subcomponent may be positioned at a first side or a second side of the first group of layers and the second group of layers. The individual layers of the third group and the fourth group may each have a local width different from the local width of the first group and / or the second group of layers. For example, the layers of the third group and / or the fourth group may have a width that is greater or less than the width of the layers of the first group and / or the second group. In addition, the layers of the first group and the second group may be arranged in an alternating order, and / or the layers of the third group and the fourth group may be arranged in an alternating order. This allows the local width of the individual layers in each subcomponent to be adapted to the overall total thickness of the wind turbine blade component. This also allows the manufacture of relatively thick wind turbine blade components or wind turbine blade components with relatively long edge transition zones.

[0041] Alternatively, the individual layers of the first and second groups may be arranged to form one half of a symmetrical profile of the wind turbine blade component, wherein the other half of the symmetrical profile may be formed by a transformed copy of the first and second groups. The transformed copy may be formed by rotation, scaling, reflection or any combination thereof. The overall width of the wind turbine blade component may taper along the thickness of the wind turbine blade component from the centerline to the first side and / or to the second side. Thus, the maximum overlap between adjacent layers may be positioned towards the first side or the second side, and the minimum overlap between adjacent layers may be positioned towards the centerline.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the first local width is equal to the second local width, or the first local width is different from the second local width.

[0043] The individual layers in the first group may each have a first width, a first length, and a first thickness. In addition, the individual layers in the second group may each have a second width, a second length, and a second thickness.

[0044] The layers of both the first group and the second group may have the same local width, i.e. the first width may be equal to the second width. Alternatively, the layers of the first group and the layers of the second group may have different local widths, i.e. the first width is greater or smaller than the second width. This allows the local width of the layers in each group to be adapted to the aerodynamic and geometric profile of the wind turbine blade.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the layers of the first group further have a first local length and the layers of the second group further have a second local length, wherein either the first local length is equal to the second local length or the first local length is different from the second local length.

[0046] The individual layers of at least one group may be aligned at a first end or at a second end. Alternatively, the individual layers may be continuously offset in a longitudinal direction relative to a reference layer. The length offset of each layer may be determined relative to the above-mentioned reference layer or another reference layer. For example, the relative length offset may increase or vary uniformly from the first side to the second side, or vice versa. The individual first ends and the individual second ends of the layers may together each form a tapered end profile facing in the same longitudinal direction. Thereby, another tapered joint is formed between the wind turbine blade component and the adjacent components of the blade shell. This further reduces the risk of wrinkles forming in the laminated layers during manufacturing and further reduces the risk of delamination in the tapered joint. This also allows the total thickness of the wind turbine blade component to taper in the longitudinal direction towards the tip end and / or the blade root, for example, stepwise or gradually.

[0047] The individual layers of the first group and the individual layers of the second group may each have the same local length, i.e. the first length may be equal to the second length. Alternatively, the layers of the first group and the layers of the second group may have different local lengths, i.e. the first length may be greater or less than the second length. This allows the local length of the layers of each group to be adapted to the aerodynamic and geometric profile of the wind turbine blade.

[0048] In a particular configuration, the layers of the first group may have a first length, which extends beyond a second length of the layers of the second group. The layers of the second group may further have a second width, which extends beyond the first width of the first group. Optionally, the layers of the third group may have a third length, which extends less than the second length, and may further have a third width, which extends beyond the second width. This allows the wind turbine blade component to extend further into the tip end region and thus have a longer overall length. This further allows the overall width and / or overall thickness of the wind turbine blade component to taper, for example in a stepped manner, as it extends further into the tip end region.

[0049] In this particular configuration, the first group of layers, the second group of layers and optionally the third group of layers may further be aligned in the edgewise direction relative to the common center line, or offset towards the first edge or the second edge of the wind turbine blade component. Alternatively or additionally, the first group of layers, the second group of layers and optionally the third group of layers may be centrally aligned in the lengthwise direction, or offset towards the first end or the second end of the wind turbine blade component.

[0050] In alternative specific configurations, one or more selected groups of layers may be offset in both the edgewise and lengthwise directions. For example, the layers of one group may be offset differently in both the edgewise and lengthwise directions relative to the layers of another group. For example, the layers of one group may be offset in both the edgewise and lengthwise directions, while the layers of another group may be offset only in the edgewise direction. For example, the layers of all groups may be offset in both the edgewise and lengthwise directions.

[0051] The local thickness of the layers in each group may be the same. Alternatively, the local thickness of the layers of the first group may be smaller than the local thickness of the layers of the second group, or vice versa. This further allows the profile of the wind turbine blade component to be adapted to the aerodynamic profile and geometry of the wind turbine blade.

[0052] The object of the present invention is further achieved by a method of manufacturing a wind turbine blade component as described above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0053] - laying down in the mould a first group of layers of fibre material, wherein each layer of said first group has a first local width,

[0054] - further laying down at least a second group of layers of fibre material, wherein each layer of said at least a second group has a second local width,

[0055] - infusing resin into said fiber material,

[0056] - substantially curing the resin to form a wind turbine blade component,

[0057] Characterized in that laying at least one of the first and second groups of layers comprises: continuously offsetting subsequent layers of the at least one of the first and second groups of layers relative to a reference layer of the at least one of the first and second groups of layers in an edgewise direction.

[0058] This provides a simplified lay-up process for forming layers of a wind turbine blade component using a reduced number of rolls with fiber material. This also reduces the total number of items used to manufacture the wind turbine blade component compared to conventional methods. Thus, a minimum amount of cutting is required to form each individual layer in the set, as any adjustments in width can be performed in a common step. The present invention also minimizes the mass and cost of the wind turbine blade by optimizing the use of structural materials during manufacturing.

[0059] The wind turbine blade components may be laid up in a separate mould and optionally injected with resin and then cured. The cured wind turbine blade components may then be positioned and attached to the rest of the blade shell structure in a later step. Alternatively, the wind turbine components may be laid up directly in a recess formed in the blade shell structure arranged in the blade mould.

[0060] Thus, the laying of the stack can be performed by simply offsetting the individual layers in the edgewise or chordwise direction so as to form the desired cross-sectional profile. This can be done manually by hand, or can be done via an automated laying device. In conventional methods, for each layer, the roller with the fiber material must be replaced in order to provide a tapered cross-sectional profile. In some conventional methods, the tapered cross-sectional profile can also be formed by cutting each layer individually in width. The present invention improves the injection characteristics of a wind turbine blade component and provides an improved interface between an aerodynamic component and a wind turbine blade component.

[0061] According to one embodiment, at least one of said first and said second groups of layers are laid down in consecutive steps.

[0062] Each group of layers can be laid in a continuous order and thus in individual continuous steps. Thus, a first group of layers can be laid in a first step and a second group of layers can be laid in a second step. This allows for a quick and simple laying of each individual group of layers. The individual layers of each group can simply be cut in length during laying, or supplied as pre-cut items. The first layer can be laid initially and acts as a reference layer for offsetting subsequent layers. Subsequent layers can be laid by simply offsetting them in the edgewise direction relative to the reference layer.

[0063] According to one embodiment, said first and said second groups of layers are laid in an alternating order.

[0064] The first and second groups of layers can also be laid in an alternating sequence and thus in a combined step.

[0065] For example, the first layer of the first group may first be laid in the mold and serve as a first reference layer for offsetting subsequent layers of the first group. Then, the first layer of the second group may be laid on top of the first layer of the first group and serve as a second reference layer for offsetting subsequent layers of the second group. Optionally, the second reference layer may be offset in the edgewise direction relative to the first reference layer. Thereafter, the second layer of the first group may be laid on top of the first layer of the second group and offset relative to the first reference layer. Then, the second layer of the second group may be laid on top of the second layer of the first group and offset relative to the second reference layer. And so on. This process may be repeated until all layers of the first and second groups are laid.

[0066] For example, the first layer of the first group may first be laid in the mold and serve as a common reference layer for offsetting subsequent layers of the first and second groups. Then, the first layer of the second group may be laid on top of the first layer of the first group and offset relative to the common reference layer in the edgewise direction. Afterwards, the second layer of the first group may be laid on top of the first layer of the second group and offset relative to the common reference layer. Then, the second layer of the second group may be laid on top of the second layer of the first group and offset relative to the common reference layer. And so on. This process may be repeated until all layers of the first and second groups are laid.

[0067] During laying, subsequent layers of the first group may be continuously offset in a first edgewise direction. Similarly, during laying, subsequent layers of the second group may be continuously offset in a second edgewise direction. The first edgewise direction and the second edgewise direction may be substantially oriented in opposite edgewise directions. Alternatively, during laying, each subsequent layer of the first and second groups may be offset in the same overall edgewise direction, but with different width offsets. Alternatively, during laying, each subsequent layer of one group may be offset in one edgewise direction, while each subsequent layer of the other group may be aligned in the thickness direction, i.e., with zero width offset. This forms a stack having a trapezoidal or parallelogram shaped cross-sectional profile.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the layers of the group having the largest local length of the stack and / or the smallest local width of the stack are laid down in an initial sub-step.

[0069] The individual layers within each group may be laid down in a predetermined order, as described above.

[0070] The individual groups may be arranged so that the group of layers with the largest local width may be laid in the mold or recess in an initial sub-step. The group of layers with the second largest local width may be laid on top of these layers in a subsequent sub-step. This process may be repeated until the group of layers with the smallest local width is laid in the mold or recess in the last sub-step. The groups may also be laid in reverse order so that the shortest layers are laid first and the widest layers are laid last. The layers may thus form a stack with a tapered cross-sectional profile.

[0071] Additionally or alternatively, the individual groups may be arranged so that the group of layers with the largest local lengths may be laid in the mold or recess in an initial substep. The group of layers with the second largest local lengths may be laid on top of these layers in a subsequent substep. This process may be repeated until the group of layers with the smallest local lengths is laid in the mold or recess in the last substep. The groups may also be laid in reverse order so that the shortest layers are laid first and the longest layers are laid last. The layers may therefore form a stack with a tapered longitudinal profile.

[0072] According to one embodiment, at least one layer of the first group or the second group is laid at an inclined angle relative to the longitudinal direction of another layer of the first group or the second group, and / or at least one layer of the first group or the second group is laid in a curved direction relative to the longitudinal direction.

[0073] In another particular embodiment, one or more groups of layers may be placed at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the layers within a group may be placed at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal direction. The angle may be measured from the first end toward the second end, or vice versa.

[0074] For example, individual groups of layers and / or layers within a group may be individually angled relative to the longitudinal direction so that there is an angular offset between adjacent groups. At least one group or layer may extend parallel to the longitudinal direction, while other groups or layers may be placed at uniformly increasing angles in the thickness direction. Alternatively, one group or layer may be angled toward a first edge, while at least one other group or layer may be angled toward a second edge. Alternatively, the angle may vary in the thickness direction. In examples, but not limited to, the angular offset may be 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°, 2°, or even greater or even less. This provides an overall profile in which the total width varies in the longitudinal direction.

[0075] In yet another particular embodiment, one or more groups of layers may extend in the curing direction relative to the longitudinal direction.The curvature may be measured from the first end towards the second end, or vice versa.

[0076] For example, individual groups of layers and / or individual layers within a group may be individually curved or have the same curvature relative to the longitudinal direction. At least one group or layer may extend parallel to the longitudinal direction, while other groups or layers may be curved towards the first edge or the second edge. Alternatively or additionally, at least one group or layer may be curved towards the first edge, while at least one other group or layer may be curved towards the second edge. This provides an overall profile suitable for a twisted or pre-bent wind turbine blade.

[0077] The above-mentioned curvature or angular placement may be selected depending on the chord-wise position of the wind turbine blade component and / or the aerodynamic profile of the wind turbine blade.

[0078] The object of the present invention is also achieved by a wind turbine blade for a wind turbine, the wind turbine blade extending in a longitudinal direction from a blade root to a tip end and further extending in a chordwise direction from a leading edge to a trailing edge, the wind turbine blade comprising a blade shell forming a pressure side and a suction side and a load bearing structure arranged between the pressure side and the suction side, wherein the load bearing structure comprises at least one main laminate located at the pressure side and at least one main laminate located at the suction side, characterized in that at least one of the main laminates at the pressure side and the suction side is constructed as described above.

[0079] This provides a wind turbine blade wherein at least one main laminate is arranged in the pressure side and in the suction side, respectively. Each main laminate extends in the longitudinal direction and further in the chord-wise direction. Preferably, the main laminate is manufactured as previously described and an improved transition is provided between the main laminate and the aerodynamic components of the blade shell.

[0080] An outer skin may extend along a first side of the main laminate, the outer skin comprising several outer layers of fiber material. A stack of several core elements and layers of the main laminate may then be arranged on the outer skin. The stack extends in the thickness direction, for example perpendicular to the chord or arc. An inner skin comprising several inner layers of fiber material may extend along a second side of the main laminate. This provides a sandwich structure which can be injected with resin and finally cured. This provides an integrated main laminate structure with improved injection characteristics, which in turn reduces the risk of wrinkles forming in the laminated layers.

[0081] Alternatively, the core elements may be spaced apart to form a recess for receiving the primary laminate. An inner skin may extend along the end surfaces of these adjacent core elements and further along the outer skin. Thereafter, a stack of layers of the primary laminate may be arranged within the recess and then injected with resin and finally cured. This allows the wind turbine blade to be manufactured in a two-step process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] The invention is explained in detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0083] Figure 1 A wind turbine is shown,

[0084] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a wind turbine blade is shown,

[0085] Figure 3 A first embodiment of a wind turbine blade component integrated into a blade shell is shown,

[0086] Figure 4 A second embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown,

[0087] Figure 5 A wind turbine blade component is shown attached to an aerodynamic member of a blade shell,

[0088] Figure 6 A first embodiment of a stack is shown, comprising a first set of layers and a second set of layers arranged in a sequential order,

[0089] Figure 7 A second embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0090] Figure 8 A third embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0091] Fig. 9 A fourth embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0092] Fig.10 A fifth embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0093] Fig.11 A sixth embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0094] Fig.12 A seventh embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0095] Fig.13 An eighth embodiment of the stack is shown, wherein the first group of layers and the second group of layers are arranged in an alternating sequence,

[0096] Fig.14 A ninth embodiment of the first and second groups is shown,

[0097] Fig.15 AB show two alternative first embodiments of wind turbine blade components formed from at least two sub-components, Fig.16 AB show two alternative second embodiments of wind turbine blade components formed from at least two sub-components, Fig.17 A tenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, Fig.18 An eleventh embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, Fig.19 A twelfth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, Fig. 20 A thirteenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, Fig.21 A fourteenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, and Fig. 22 A fifteenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown.

[0098] Reference Symbols List

[0099] 1. Wind Turbines

[0100] 2. Wind turbine towers

[0101] 3. Cabin

[0102] 4. Hub

[0103] 5. Wind turbine blades

[0104] 6. Pitch bearing

[0105] 7. Leaf root

[0106] 8. Distal end

[0107] 9. Leading Edge

[0108] 10. Trailing edge

[0109] 11. Blade shell

[0110] 12. Pressure side

[0111] 13. Suction side

[0112] 14. The root of the blade

[0113] 15. Aerodynamic blade section

[0114] 16. Transition

[0115] 17. Length of wind turbine blades

[0116] 18. Chord length of wind turbine blades

[0117] 19. Blade thickness

[0118] 20. Core element

[0119] 21.Inner skin

[0120] 22. External skin

[0121] 23. Main laminate

[0122] 24. First side

[0123] 25. Second side

[0124] 26. First Edge

[0125] 27. Second Edge

[0126] 28. End surface of core element

[0127] 29. Aerodynamic components of blade shell

[0128] 30. The first group of layers

[0129] 31. The second group of layers

[0130] 32. The first outermost layer

[0131] 33. The second outermost layer

[0132] 34. Width offset

[0133] 35. First edge contour

[0134] 36. Second edge contour

[0135] 37. Main laminate

[0136] 38. Sub-components of the main laminate

[0137] 39.Half of the main laminate

[0138] 40. Centerline

[0139] 41. The third group of layers

[0140] 42. First end

[0141] 43. Second end

[0142] 44. Longitudinal direction

[0143] W 1 First local width

[0144] W 2 Second partial width

[0145] W 3 Third partial width

[0146] L 1 First local length

[0147] L 2 Second local length

[0148] L 3 The third local length

[0149] The listed reference symbols are shown in the drawings described above, wherein for the purpose of illustration, not all reference symbols are shown on the same figure. The same components or positions seen in the drawings are numbered with the same reference symbols in different figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0150] Figure 1 A modern wind turbine 1 is shown, comprising a wind turbine tower 2, a nacelle 3 arranged on top of the wind turbine tower 2 and a rotor defining a rotor plane. The nacelle 3 is connected to the wind turbine tower 2, for example via a yaw bearing unit. The rotor comprises a hub 4 and several wind turbine blades 5. Three wind turbine blades are shown here, but the rotor may comprise more or fewer wind turbine blades 5. The hub 4 is connected via a rotating shaft to a drive train, for example a generator, located in the wind turbine 1.

[0151] The hub 4 comprises a mounting interface for each wind turbine blade 5. A pitch bearing unit 6 is optionally connected to the mounting interface and further to a blade root of the wind turbine blade 5.

[0152] Figure 2A schematic view of a wind turbine blade 5 is shown, which extends in a longitudinal direction from a blade root 7 to a tip end 8. The wind turbine blade 5 further extends in a chordwise direction from a leading edge 9 to a trailing edge 10. The wind turbine blade 5 comprises a blade shell 11 having two oppositely facing side surfaces defining a pressure side 12 and a suction side 13, respectively. The blade shell 11 further defines a blade root portion 14, an aerodynamic blade portion 15 and a transition portion 16 between the blade root portion 14 and the aerodynamic blade portion 15.

[0153] The blade root portion 14 has a substantially circular or elliptical cross section (indicated by dashed lines). The blade root portion 14 is configured together with a load bearing structure (e.g., a main laminate in combination with a shear web or a box beam) to increase the structural strength of the wind turbine blade 5 and transfer dynamic loads to the hub 4. The load bearing structure extends between the pressure side 12 and the suction side 13 and further extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0154] Blade aerodynamics The blade portion 15 has an aerodynamically shaped cross section (indicated by the dashed line) designed to generate lift. The cross-sectional profile of the blade shell 11 gradually transitions from a circular or elliptical profile to an aerodynamic profile in a transition portion 16 .

[0155] The wind turbine blade 5 has a longitudinal length 17 of at least 35 meters, preferably at least 50 meters. The wind turbine blade 5 further has a chord length 18 as a function of the length 17, wherein the maximum chord length is found between the blade aerodynamic blade portion 15 and the transition portion 16. The wind turbine blade 5 further has a blade thickness 19 as a function of the chord length 18, wherein the blade thickness 19 is measured perpendicular to the chord between the pressure side 12 and the suction side 13.

[0156] Figure 3 A first embodiment of a wind turbine blade component integrated into a blade shell 11 is shown. The blade shell 11 comprises a sandwich structure having several core elements 20 arranged between an inner skin 21 defining an inner blade surface and an outer skin 22 defining an outer blade surface. Each skin 21, 22 comprises several layers of fiber material.

[0157] The wind turbine blade component is formed as a main laminate 23 connected to the core element 20, wherein the inner skin 21 and the outer skin 22 extend over a first side 24 and a second side 25 of the wind turbine blade component, respectively. The wind turbine blade component further comprises a first edge 26 and a second edge 27. The main laminate 23 is formed by a stack of layers extending in a thickness direction, such as Figures 6 to 14Each edge 26, 27 forms an edge profile defined by the combined local first and second edges of each layer in the stack.

[0158] Here, the main laminate 23 has a cross-sectional profile of a trapezoidal shape, wherein the overall width of the stack, seen in the thickness direction, tapers from the first side 24 to the second side 25. The first edge 26 and the second edge 27 each form a tapered edge profile having an edge surface facing the adjacent core element 20. The adjacent core element 20 comprises an edge 28 having a tapered edge profile having an edge surface facing the main laminate 23. The oppositely facing edges 26, 27, 28 together form two tapered joints extending in opposite edgewise directions.

[0159] Figure 4 A second embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein the overall thickness of the wind turbine blade component, seen in one edgewise direction, tapers from one side 24, 25 to the opposite side 24, 25. Here, the main laminate 23' has a cross-sectional profile in the shape of a parallelogram. Oppositely facing edges 26', 27', 28' together form two tapered joints extending in the same edgewise direction.

[0160] Figure 5 A wind turbine blade component is shown attached to an aerodynamic member 29 of a blade shell 11. As illustrated, the core element 20 is arranged to form a recess for receiving a primary laminate 23". Here, an inner skin 21 ' extends along the core element 20 and further along a respective edge 28 and outer skin 22 in the recess.

[0161] The main laminate 23" is then laid out in the recess, after curing of the aerodynamic component 29. Once the main laminate 23" is laid out, it is injected with resin and finally cured. The main laminate 23" can also be formed as a pre-cured element, which is positioned in the recess and then attached to the aerodynamic component 29.

[0162] Figure 6 A first embodiment of a stack is shown, comprising a first group 30 of layers and a second group 31 of layers arranged in a consecutive order. The first group 30 and the second group 31 each comprise several layers of fiber material. The first group 30 and the second group 31 of layers are arranged relative to each other. The stack defines an overall thickness and an overall width of a wind turbine blade component.

[0163] The first group 30 and the second group 31 each include a first outermost layer 32 facing the first side 24 and a second outermost layer 33 facing the second side 25. One layer of the first group 30 serves as a reference layer for offsetting the other layers of the first group 30. Similarly, one layer of the second group 31 serves as a reference layer for offsetting the other layers of the second group 31. Here, the first outermost layer 32 of each group 30, 31 serves as a reference layer for further alignment relative to each other in the thickness direction.

[0164] The local width offset 34 of each offset layer of the first set 30 increases continuously from the first side 24 to the second side 25, such as Figure 6 Similarly, the local width offset 34 of each offset layer of the second group 30 increases continuously from the first side 24 to the second side 25. Here, the local width offset 34 in the first group 30 is equal to the local width offset 34 in the second group 31.

[0165] The individual layers of the first group 30 form a first edge contour 35 defined by the combined local first edge and the local second edge. Similarly, the individual layers of the second group 31 form a second edge contour 36 defined by the combined local first edge and the local second edge. Here, both the first edge contour and the second edge contour extend in the same edgewise direction, such as Figure 6 As shown in the figure.

[0166] Figure 7 A second embodiment of the first group 30 and the second group 31 is shown, wherein the layers of the second group 31 are offset in opposite edgewise directions relative to the layers of the first group 30 .

[0167] Here, the first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31 serves as a reference layer. The first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31 is further aligned with the second outermost layer of the first group 30 in the thickness direction.

[0168] The local width offset 34 in the first set 30 is equal to the local width offset 34 in the second set 31, but in a different direction. Thus, the first edge contour 35 and the second edge contour 36' extend in opposite edgewise directions.

[0169] Figure 8 A third embodiment of a first group 30 and a second group 31 is shown, wherein the second outermost layer 33 of the first group 30 acts as a reference layer for offsetting the individual layers of the second group 31. Thus, all layers of the second group 31 are offset in the edgewise direction relative to the reference layer, as Figure 8 As shown in the figure.

[0170] Here, the first outermost layer 32 of the first group 30 serves as a reference layer for the other layers of the first group 30. Therefore, there is a local width offset 34' between the two reference layers, such as Figure 8 As shown in the figure.

[0171] Here, the first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31 only partially overlaps the second outermost layer 33 of the first group 30. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31 completely overlaps the second outermost layer 33 of the first group 30 .

[0172] Fig. 9 A fourth embodiment of the first group 30 and the second group 31 is shown, wherein the layers of the second group 31 are offset in opposite edgewise directions relative to the layers of the first group 30 .

[0173] The first outermost layer of the second group 31 serves as a reference layer for offsetting the other layers of the second group 31. Similarly, the first outermost layer of the first group 30 serves as a reference layer for offsetting the other layers of the first group 30. The two reference layers are aligned here in the thickness direction.

[0174] Here, there is a greater local width offset 34 ″ between the second outermost layer 33 of the first group 30 and the first outermost layer of the second group 31 , whereby the overlap between the two outermost layers 32 , 33 is further reduced.

[0175] Fig.10 A fifth embodiment of a first group 30' and a second group 31' is shown, wherein the number of layers in the first group 30' is different from the number of layers in the second group 31'. Here, the number of layers in the first group 30' is smaller than the number of layers in the second group 31'.

[0176] Alternatively or additionally, the reference layer of the second group 31 ' is aligned with the intermediate layer of the first group 30'. Thus, the first outermost layer of the second group 31 ' partially overlaps the second outermost layer 33 of the first group 30'.

[0177] Fig.11 A sixth embodiment of the first and second groups is shown, wherein the local width offset of the first group 30 is different from the local width offset of the second group 31 .

[0178] Here, the layers of the first group 30 have a first local width offset 34a measured relative to their reference layer.The layers of the first group 30 form a first edge profile 35", which is arranged in a first angular position relative to the thickness direction.

[0179] Similarly, the layers of the second group 31 have a second local width offset 34b measured relative to their reference layer. The layers of the second group 31 form a second edge profile 36'" which is arranged at a second angular position relative to the thickness direction.

[0180] like Fig.11As indicated in FIG. 1 , the first local width offset 34a is greater than the second local width offset 34b. This difference in width offset causes the first edge profile 35″ and the second edge profile 36″′ to be placed at different angular positions relative to the thickness direction. However, Figure 6 The first and second groups 30, 31 have an equal width offset and therefore their first and second edge profiles 35, 36 are placed in a parallel angular position.

[0181] Fig.12 A seventh embodiment of the first group 30 and the second group 31 ″ is shown, wherein the layers of the first group 30 and the layers of the second group 31 ″ have different local widths.

[0182] Here, all layers of the first group 30 have a first local width, and all layers of the second group 31 ″ have a second local width, such as Fig.12 As shown in the figure and in Figures 17 to 18 Each group 30, 31" of layers is continuously offset in a selected edgewise direction to form a desired first edge profile 35 and a second edge profile 36. However, in conventional main laminates, the layers are individually cut to different widths to form the desired edge profiles, such as disclosed in US 2009 / 0169392A1.

[0183] Fig.13 An eighth embodiment of a stack is shown, in which a first group 30' of layers and a second group 31'" of layers are arranged in an alternating order. Here, the first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31'" is arranged on top of the first outermost layer 32 of the first group 30'. Subsequent layers of the first group 30' are arranged on top of the first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31'". Subsequent layers of the second group 31'" are arranged on top of the subsequent layers of the first group 30', and so on.

[0184] Here, the layers within the first group 30' and the second group 31'' are offset in the same overall edgewise direction, preferably with equal local width offsets, such as Figure 6 As illustrated, the first group 30' of layers is further offset in the edgewise direction relative to the second group 31'' of layers, so that the layers form partially overlapping layers.

[0185] Here, the first group 30' and the second group 31'" form a stack having a parallelogram-shaped cross-sectional profile. The total width of the stack is defined by the local widths of the combination of the partially overlapping layers. In addition, the stack has a first side 24' defined by the first outermost layer 32 of the combination of the first group 30' and the second group 31'". The second side 25' is defined by the second outermost layer 33 of the combination of the first group 30' and the second group 31'". Here, the stack has a uniform overlap between corresponding layers of the first group 30' and the second group 31'", as shown.

[0186] Thus, by simply offsetting the layers within the first and / or second groups and further offsetting the respective groups relative to each other, a stack may be formed using layers having a narrower width than the desired overall width.

[0187] Fig.14 A ninth embodiment of the first group 30 ′ and the second group 31 ′″ is shown, wherein the second group 31 ′″ of layers is offset in the opposite edgewise direction relative to the first group 30 ′ of layers.

[0188] Here, the first group 30' and the second group 31"' form a stack having a trapezoidal cross-sectional profile. The total width of the stack is defined by the local widths of the combination of the partially overlapping layers. In addition, the stack has a first side 24" defined by the first outermost layer 32 of the combination of the first group 30' and the second group 31"', and the second side 25" is defined by the second outermost layer 33 of the combination of the first group 30' and the second group 31"'. Here, the stack has a minimum overlap between the second outermost layer 33 of the first group 30' and the second outermost layer 33 of the second group 31"', and a maximum overlap between the first outermost layer 32 of the first group 30' and the first outermost layer 32 of the second group 31"'.

[0189] The lowest layer of the stack, for example, the first outermost layer 32 of the first group 30', serves as a reference layer for offsetting the other layers of the stack, such as Fig.14 As shown in the figure.

[0190] Here, the total width of the stack tapers in the thickness direction from the second side 25" to the first side 24". However, the direction of taper may also be reversed so that the total width of the stack tapers in the thickness direction from the first side 24" to the second side 25".

[0191] Fig.15 AB show two alternative first embodiments of wind turbine blade components formed as a main laminate 37, wherein: Fig.15 A and Fig.15 B both show a main laminate 37 having an overall cross-sectional profile formed by several sub-components 38 arranged relative to each other.

[0192] Here, the individual subcomponents 38 are arranged relative to each other in the thickness direction, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 Optionally, the individual subcomponents 38 are arranged relative to each other in the thickness direction and / or in the edgewise direction, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 B. Alternatively or additionally, the individual subcomponents 38 may also be arranged relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (not shown).

[0193] about Figures 6 to 14 The first 30 and second 31 groups of layers depicted form a sub-component of a main laminate 37 .

[0194] Here, if Fig.15 B, the first group 30 and the second group 31 form a symmetrical half of the main laminate 37, while the other half 39 is formed by a transformed copy of the first group 30 and the second group 31. The two halves are arranged relative to a center line 40. The center line 40 extends between the first edge and the second edge or the first side and the second side of the main laminate 37. Alternatively, the main laminate 37 includes four symmetrical sub-components, such as Fig.15 B. The first group 30 and the second group 31 form one subcomponent, while the other three subcomponents 38 ′ are formed by transformed copies of the first group 30 and the second group 31 .

[0195] Here, the first group 30 and the second group 31 form a sub-component, wherein at least one other sub-component 38" is arranged relative to the first group 30 and the second group 31. The sub-component 38" has a different configuration from the configuration of the first group 30 and the second group 31, such as Fig.15 A. The sub-component 38" is formed by a third group of layers and a fourth group of layers arranged in a continuous sequence or in an alternating sequence, such as Figure 6 and 13 Here, the sub-components 38 ″ are arranged on both the first side 24 and the second side 25 of the first group 30 and the second group 31 .

[0196] Fig.16 AB show two alternative second embodiments of wind turbine blade components, wherein the main laminate 37 ′ has different overall cross-sectional profiles formed by the individual sub-components 38 .

[0197] The first and second groups 30, 31 of layers may form one half of a main laminate 37', while the other half 39' has the same overall construction but different dimensions, such as Fig.16 A. The other half 39' is formed by a third group of layers and a fourth group of layers arranged in a continuous sequence or in an alternating sequence. The two halves are arranged relative to a center line 40'.

[0198] Here, the layers of the third and fourth groups have a smaller local width than the local width of the first and second groups 30 and 31 of layers. Thus, a narrower profile is formed than the layers of the first and second groups 30 and 31. The other half 39' and the first and second groups 30 and 31 of layers are arranged so that the overall width of the main laminate 37' tapers continuously along the thickness of the main laminate 37'.

[0199] One sub-component 38"' is arranged at the second side 35, and another sub-component 38"" is arranged at the first side 34 of the first group 30 and the second group 31, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 B. Here, the layers of the group forming the one sub-component 38'" have a smaller local width than the local widths of the first group 30 and the second group 31 of layers. Therefore, the sub-component 38'" has a narrower profile than the layers of the first group 30 and the second group 31. Here, the layers of the group forming the other sub-component 38'" have a larger local width than the local widths of the first group 30 and the second group 31 of layers. Therefore, the sub-component 38'" has a wider profile than the layers of the first group 30 and the second group 31.

[0200] Similar to Fig.15 The sub-components 38 ″, 38 ″′, 38 ″″ optionally have a relative thickness that is smaller than the relative thickness of the sub-components formed by the first set 30 and the second set 31 .

[0201] Fig.17 A tenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein groups of respective layers have different local lengths and different local widths.

[0202] The first set 30 of layers all have a first local length, L 1 , and the layers of the second group 31 all have a second local length, L 2 In addition, the optional third group 41 of layers all have a third length, L 3 Here, the layers of the first group 30 and the second group 31 of layers extend beyond the local length of the third group 41, so that the first length L 1 and the second length L 2 Greater than the third length L 3 Furthermore, the layers of the first group 30 of layers extend beyond the local length of the second group 31, so that the first length L 1 Greater than the second length L 2 .

[0203] Furthermore, the layers of the first group 30 all have a first local width, W 1 , while the layers of the second group 31 all have a second local width, W 2 In addition, the layers of the optional third group 41 all have a third width, W 3Here, the layers of the second group 31 and the third group 41 of layers extend beyond the local width of the first group 30, so that the second width W 2 and the third width W 3 Greater than the first width W 1 Furthermore, the layers of the third group 41 of layers extend beyond the local width of the second group 31, so that the third width W 3 Greater than the second width W 2 .

[0204] like Fig.17 As illustrated in , the respective groups 30 , 31 , 41 are centrally aligned relative to a longitudinal centerline (not shown) of the first group 30 .

[0205] Fig.18 An eleventh embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein respective groups of layers are offset towards the first edge 26 or the second edge 27. Here, the first group 30, the second group 31 and the third group 41 are offset towards the first edge 26. Alternatively, the first group 30, the second group 31 and the third group 41 are offset towards the second edge 27.

[0206] exist Fig.17 and 18 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first group 30, the second group 31 and the third group 41 are further aligned relative to the first end 42, alternatively aligned relative to the second end 43. Alternatively, the first group 30, the second group 31 and the third group 41 can be centrally aligned relative to a central edgewise centerline (not shown).

[0207] Fig.19 A twelfth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein the individual layers of one group 30, 31, 41 are offset both in the lengthwise direction and in the edgewise direction. Thereby, a stack is formed having a tapered profile both in the lengthwise direction and in the edgewise direction.

[0208] The individual layers may be continuously offset toward the second end 43 and the second edge 27. Alternatively, the individual layers may be offset toward the first end 42 and / or the first edge 26.

[0209] Fig. 20 A thirteenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein the individual plies of one group are offset in both the edgewise direction and the lengthwise direction, while the individual plies of another group are offset only in the edgewise direction.

[0210] Here, the layers of the first group 30 are offset in both the edgewise and longitudinal directions, while the layers of the second group 31 or the third group 41 are offset only in the edgewise direction. Alternatively, the layers of the second group 31 or the third group 41 may also be offset in both the edgewise and longitudinal directions, but differently than the layers of the first group 30.

[0211] Here, the layers of the first group 30 have a larger local width than the layers of the second group 31 or the third group 41. However, the layers of the second group 31 or the third group 41 may have the same local width as the layers of the first group 30.

[0212] Fig.21 A fourteenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein the respective groups 31, 41 are angularly offset relative to the longitudinal direction 44. The layers of the groups 31, 41 are angularly offset towards the first edge 26, alternatively towards the second edge 27. The layers of the group 30 extend parallel to the longitudinal direction 44.

[0213] Here, the overall width increases uniformly from the first end 42 to the second end 43 .

[0214] Fig. 22 A fifteenth embodiment of a wind turbine blade component is shown, wherein the respective group 31 , 41 extends in a bending direction towards the first edge 26 , alternatively towards the second edge 27 .

[0215] The layers of the set 30 extend parallel to the longitudinal direction 44. However, all layers of the sets 30, 31, 41 may extend in the same bending direction.

[0216] Alternatively or additionally, individual layers within a group 30, 31, 41 may be similar to Fig.21 and 22 The embodiment shown in FIG.

[0217] The above-described embodiments may be combined in any combination without departing from the invention.

Claims

1. A wind turbine blade component for a wind turbine blade (5), the wind turbine blade component extending in a longitudinal direction from a first end (42) to a second end (43) and further extending in an edgewise direction from a first edge (26) to a second edge (27), the wind turbine blade component include: A plurality of layers of fibrous material arranged in a stack extending in a thickness direction, wherein the stack defines a first side (24) and a second side (25), wherein the first edge (26) and the second edge (27) are arranged between the first side (24) and the second side (25), the plurality of layers comprising a first group (30) of layers and at least a second group (31) of layers, Wherein, in the edgewise direction, the layers of the first group (30) have a first local width (W 1 ) of equal width, Wherein, in the edgewise direction, the layers of the second group (31) have a second local width (W 2 ) of equal width, wherein the layers of at least one of the first group (30) and the second group (31) are continuously offset in at least one edgewise direction from the first side (24) to the second side (25), wherein the layers of the first group (30) are offset in a first edgewise direction to form a first edge profile (35), and the layers of the second group (31) are offset in a second edgewise direction to form a second edge profile (36), Characterized in that the first edgewise direction is opposite to the second edgewise direction and the wind turbine blade component is a main laminate (23).

2. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The outermost layers (32, 33) of the first group (30) are aligned with the outermost layers (32, 33) of the second group (31) in the thickness direction.

3. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The layers of the second group (31) are offset relative to the outermost layers (32, 33) of the first group (30).

4. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that At least the layers of the first group (30) or the second group (31) are arranged in a continuous order in the thickness direction.

5. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The first group (30) of layers and the second group (31) of layers are arranged in an alternating order in the thickness direction.

6. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The multiple layers form a tapered stack, wherein a total width of the tapered stack gradually decreases from the first side (24) to the second side (25), or a total thickness of the tapered stack gradually decreases from a layer defining one of the first side (24) and the second side (25) to a layer defining the other of the first side (24) and the second side (25).

7. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The first local width (W 1 ) is equal to the second local width (W 2 ), or the first local width (W 1 ) is different from the second local width (W 2 ).

8. A wind turbine blade component according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The first set (30) of layers further has a first local length (L 1 ), and the layers of the second group (31) further have a second local length (L 2 ), wherein, or the first local length (L 1 ) is equal to the second local length (L 2 ), or the first local length (L 1 ) is different from the second local length (L 2 ).

9. A method of manufacturing a wind turbine blade component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The following steps are involved: - laying down in the mould a first group (30) of layers of fibre material, wherein in the edgewise direction each layer of said first group (30) has a first local width (W 1 ), - further laying down at least a second group (31) of layers of the fiber material, wherein each layer of the at least second group (31) has a second local width (W 2 ), - infusing resin into said fiber material, - substantially curing the resin to form a wind turbine blade component, It is characterized in that the laying of at least one of the first group (30) and the second group (31) of layers includes: continuously offsetting the subsequent layers of at least one of the first group (30) and the second group (31) of layers in an edge direction relative to the reference layer of at least one of the first group (30) and the second group (31) of layers.

10. The method according to claim 9, It is characterized in that At least one of said first set (30) and said second set (31) of layers is laid down in consecutive steps.

11. The method according to claim 9, It is characterized in that The first (30) and second (31) groups of layers are laid in an alternating sequence.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, It is characterized in that The layers of the group having the greatest local length of the stack and / or the smallest local width of the stack are laid down in an initial step.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, It is characterized in that At least one layer in the first group (30) or the second group (31) is laid at an inclined angle relative to the longitudinal direction of another layer in the first group (30) or the second group (31), and / or at least one layer in the first group (30) or the second group (31) is laid in a curved direction relative to the longitudinal direction.

14. A wind turbine blade (5) for a wind turbine, extending in a longitudinal direction from a blade root (7) to a tip end (8) and further extending in a chordwise direction from a leading edge (9) to a trailing edge (10), the wind turbine blade (5) comprising a blade shell (11) forming a pressure side (12) and a suction side (13) and a load bearing structure arranged between the pressure side (12) and the suction side (13), in, The load bearing structure comprises at least one main laminate (23) at the pressure side (12) and at least one main laminate (23) at the suction side (13), characterised in that at least one of the main laminates (23) at the pressure side (12) and the suction side (13) is constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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