Gearbox systems, wind turbines, and methods for operating gearbox systems

Abstract

This subject matter relates to gearbox systems for wind turbines. The gearbox may have a gearbox housing defining an internal gearbox volume. The gearbox system also includes at least one reservoir for storing lubricant and a lubricant supply arrangement. A lubricant return arrangement is also provided. Thus, the gearbox system includes a lubrication cycle, particularly a closed lubrication cycle, in which lubricant is supplied from the reservoir through the lubricant supply arrangement to the lubrication locations of the gearbox, and then returns to the reservoir through the lubricant return arrangement. The gearbox system includes a venting arrangement connected to the gearbox volume and having specifically constructed limiting devices. To obtain beneficial operating behavior of the gearbox system, the gearbox system (particularly the reservoir, pump, lubricant supply arrangement, and / or venting arrangement) is configured such that: when the pump is operating, a flow of lubricant with appropriate pressure and flow rate is supplied from the reservoir to the respective lubrication locations; when the pump is not operating or becomes inoperable, the gearbox volume is flooded with lubricant from the reservoir.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This topic generally relates to wind turbines, and more particularly to a gearbox system for wind turbines. Furthermore, a method for operating the gearbox system is proposed. Background Technology

[0002] Wind power is considered one of the cleanest and most environmentally friendly energy sources available today, and wind turbines have received increasing attention in this regard. A modern wind turbine may consist of a tower, generator, gearbox, nacelle, and one or more rotor blades. The rotor blades use the known airfoil principle to capture kinetic energy from the wind and transfer that kinetic energy through rotation to rotate the shaft that connects the rotor blades to the gearbox or directly to the generator (if no gearbox is used). The generator then converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy that can be deployed to the public power grid.

[0003] Specifically, wind turbines comprise various mechanical components, which have moving parts supported by stationary structures. This causes friction between these components, leading to associated drawbacks such as high temperatures and wear.

[0004] Specific types of wind turbines (e.g., Danish type) include a gearbox designed to convert slow, high-torque rotational movement into relatively fast rotation with reduced torque. For example, the gearbox may be a planetary gearbox, optionally with additional gear stages, wherein multiple components of the gearbox are fluid-lubricated, such as oil-lubricated. For this purpose, pressurized lubricant is supplied to multiple locations.

[0005] However, even when the wind turbine is not generating energy, such as when the wind turbine is idling due to very little wind, the aforementioned lubrication is still necessary (especially for the gearbox). Summary of the Invention

[0006] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0007] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a gearbox system for a wind turbine, the gearbox system including a gearbox that can be arranged in the drive system of the wind turbine for converting the slow rotational movement of the wind turbine rotor toward the wind turbine's generator into a relatively fast rotational movement.

[0008] The gearbox may have a gearbox housing defining an internal gearbox volume, wherein, for example, the gears of a planetary gearbox are housed within the gearbox volume and supported by bearing arrangements within the gearbox housing. At least one of the gears and / or bearing arrangements requires lubrication during movement. For example, it is necessary to provide a specific flow of lubricant on the mating surfaces of the planetary gears and / or on the rotating shafts of the planetary gears or on the bearing arrangements of the gears. Hereinafter, the term "lubricated location" will be used to indicate any location in the gearbox system that requires lubrication for proper functioning without suffering any short- or long-term damage caused by friction, including but not limited to bearing systems external to the gearbox, such as main bearings.

[0009] The gearbox system further includes: at least one reservoir for storing a lubricant such as lubricating oil; and a lubricant supply arrangement configured to provide a flow of lubricant from the reservoir to a lubrication location.

[0010] Additionally, a lubricant return arrangement is provided by the gearbox system, which enables the return flow of lubricant from the gearbox volume back to the reservoir. Therefore, the gearbox system includes a lubrication cycle, particularly a closed lubrication cycle, in which lubricant is supplied from the reservoir to the lubrication location of the gearbox via the lubricant supply arrangement, and subsequently returns to the reservoir via the lubricant return arrangement.

[0011] The lubricant return arrangement may include at least a pump, which is preferably located downstream of the gearbox volume. As an example, the pump may be configured to actively pump lubricant from the gearbox volume to a reservoir (particularly through cooling equipment and / or filters).

[0012] Alternatively, the pump may be positioned downstream of the gearbox volume and upstream of the reservoir.

[0013] Furthermore, the gearbox system includes a venting arrangement connected to the gearbox volume and having a specifically constructed restraining device. The restraining device may be a particularly passive component that allows gas to leave the gearbox volume (possibly, but not necessarily, while overcoming some resistance or back pressure). Thus, the venting arrangement is configured such that lubricant can be supplied to the gearbox volume even if no lubricant is transported out of the gearbox volume, for example, via a lubricant return arrangement. To achieve this function, residual gas or air within the gearbox volume is released via the restraining device and through the venting arrangement, where the relevant volume is replaced by lubricant.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the restrictive arrangement is configured such that gaseous fluids can pass through without experiencing resistance, or at least without experiencing major functional inhibition resistance. Conversely, liquids, such as lubricants (at least for functional purposes), cannot pass through the restrictive device and thus exit through the venting arrangement. In particular, liquid fluids are inhibited from passing through the venting arrangement compared to gaseous fluids. It should be noted that the functional embodiment of the venting arrangement that blocks or at least inhibits liquid fluids while allowing gaseous fluids to pass should be selected based on the overall function.

[0015] For example, the diameter of the limiting device (which may be embodied in a part of the ventilated arrangement) may be selected to have a reduced size, such that liquid may not be able to pass through the limiting device.

[0016] In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that even highly viscous liquids can pass through the limiting device (at least in a limited amount) if adequately pressurized. Therefore, for the purposes of this invention, when characterizing the limiting device that prevents lubricant from passing through it, the relevant flow rate of the lubricant through the venting arrangement and / or limiting device is omitted at least, and the term "relevant" must be interpreted in consideration of the operating conditions of the gearbox system of the wind turbine.

[0017] For example, the diameter of the cross-sectional area of ​​the limiting device may be less than 3 mm, particularly less than 2.5 mm, preferably less than 2 mm, and particularly less than 1.5 mm. Such a value may prevent the relevant flow rate of the lubricant (and therefore, the omitted lubricant) from passing through the limiting device (especially due to frictional phenomena), while the lubricant exhibits its typical viscosity value.

[0018] To achieve beneficial operating behavior of the gearbox system, the gearbox system (particularly the reservoir, pump, lubricant supply arrangement, and / or venting arrangement) is configured such that: when the pump is operating, a flow of lubricant with appropriate pressure and flow rate is supplied from the reservoir to the various lubrication points; furthermore, when the pump is not operating or becomes inoperable, the gearbox volume is flooded with lubricant from the reservoir.

[0019] Therefore, in the context of this invention, a method is disclosed in which lubricant is transported from the gearbox volume to the reservoir via a lubricant return arrangement during pump operation. The lubricant is guided from the reservoir under sufficient pressure to the lubrication location, particularly through lubrication channels and pipes that form part of the lubricant supply arrangement. To achieve this behavior, the capacity, stable operating point, and / or geometry of the aforementioned components are selected, particularly the capacity, stable operating point, and / or geometry of the pump and the lubricant supply arrangement, such that the components of the gearbox are adequately lubricated for operating the wind turbine and generating energy.

[0020] Furthermore, the construction and / or geometry of the lubrication supply arrangement, reservoir, and / or venting arrangement are determined such that, when the pump stops delivering lubricant to the reservoir and thus to the lubrication location, at least a portion of the lubrication location can be adequately lubricated. Specifically, the reservoir is constructed and / or arranged such that lubricant is automatically discharged from the reservoir and into the gearbox volume, particularly through the lubrication location, without any further active measures. To achieve this automatic, action-free behavior, a gaseous fluid is released outward from the gearbox volume to allow lubricant to enter the gearbox volume.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the venting opening to the gearbox volume is not located at the bottom portion of the gearbox volume, but specifically at the top portion of the gearbox volume.

[0022] Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “upper side,” “lower side,” “upper,” and / or “lower” should be understood in the context of the operating position and arrangement of the gearbox in the wind turbine.

[0023] Therefore, if the pump becomes inoperable, lubricant will be discharged from the reservoir into the gearbox volume through the lubricant supply arrangement as soon as the lubricant level in the gearbox volume reaches the opening of the vent arrangement. The lubricant will then enter the vent arrangement, and when it reaches the limiting device, the flow of lubricant through the vent arrangement is restricted, reduced to a negligible level, and / or stopped. For example, in this case, the gearbox is flooded with lubricant.

[0024] In the context of this disclosure, the term "gearbox volume submerged with lubricant" must be understood to mean that the lubricant is present in the gearbox volume at a level high enough that, due to friction, no or negligible damage can be applied to any lubrication point, particularly to gears and bearings. Specifically, depending on possible limitations, the gearbox volume is submerged if sufficient splash lubrication (e.g., through adequate immersion and splash lubrication) is provided to the lubrication points of the gearbox.

[0025] Furthermore, the foregoing limitations may be particularly applicable to wind turbines in an idling state. For example, during periods of low wind speed, or if the wind turbine experiences grid losses and immediately ceases generating electricity by moving the rotor blades to a feathering position, the pumps in the gearbox system may also stop operating due to a lack of energy supply. However, during idling, the rotor of the wind turbine, and therefore the components of the gearbox, do not completely stop; instead, the entire rotor may even rotate slowly. Automatic flooding of the gearbox ensures, for the first time, that even if the wind turbine completely stops operating, and particularly enters an uncontrolled idling state, the gearbox and its components are adequately splash-lubricated (e.g., through sufficient immersion and splashing).

[0026] According to an embodiment, the gearbox volume is submerged if the flooding level at least partially reaches each bearing of each gear in the gearbox. Preferably, if the gearbox is a planetary gearbox, the flooding level must reach each axis of each planetary gear (e.g., even when the planetary gear is in its highest position).

[0027] According to an embodiment, the gearbox system (particularly the reservoir, pump, lubricant supply arrangement, and / or venting arrangement) is configured such that flooding is achieved within 45 minutes, particularly 30 minutes, and preferably 15 minutes from the moment the pump becomes inoperable. Extensive testing and data analysis have revealed that if flooding as described occurs, the associated damage is negligible. Therefore, the lubricant and dimensions (e.g., structure, diameter, etc.) that facilitate the flooding process of the gearbox volume are configured such that the aforementioned time constraints are met.

[0028] According to a specific beneficial embodiment, the effect of flooding the gearbox volume is achieved in a fail-safe manner, thus flooding is ensured and is independent of further operation of the wind turbine.

[0029] For example, a gearbox system (particularly a reservoir, pump, lubricant supply arrangement and / or venting arrangement) is configured such that the submersion of the gearbox volume is achieved without further, particularly active, actuation of any component of the gearbox system, and / or wherein the gearbox system does not include any kind of active actuation device for actively achieving the lubricating flow from the reservoir into the gearbox volume when the pump changes from an operating state to an inoperable state.

[0030] Specifically, the gearbox system does not include actuating devices configured to submerge and / or prevent submersion of the gearbox without being specifically enabled, disabled, and / or triggered. For example, the gearbox system does not include valves or actuating devices that need to be opened or closed to submerge the gearbox volume.

[0031] Specifically, the gearbox system does not include a bypass conduit with an active or passive valve connecting the reservoir and the gearbox volume, wherein the bypass conduit is blocked by the valve during normal operating conditions or when the pump is operating, and wherein the bypass conduit is opened under special circumstances (e.g., if the wind turbine does not generate electricity and / or the pump does not operate).

[0032] The described construction, without bypass components and featuring switches, valves, or similar operating devices, provides for the first time a completely fail-safe system. According to this disclosure, the gearbox volume is flooded without the need for additional valves or operating devices to be triggered, activated, or deactivated, thus flooding is ensured and is fail-safe. Providing additional operating devices and / or bypass connections can lead to failure scenarios, particularly preventing the gearbox volume from being flooded if the lubrication pump is not operating. Subsequently, the relevant components of the gearbox are not further lubricated, and this can therefore cause serious damage to the wind turbine and significant economic losses.

[0033] The aforementioned disclaimers include, for example, electromagnetic pretensioning (spring) or pre-pressurization valves that open in the event of power or pressure loss.

[0034] According to an optional embodiment, the negative statement may exclude a limiting device and / or valve that allows air flow but not liquid flow and / or opens unidirectionally due to a positive pressure differential between the upstream and downstream sides of the valve.

[0035] In an additional embodiment, the venting arrangement includes a limiting device configured such that gas can flow into and out of the gearbox volume via the venting arrangement, while preventing lubricant from flowing out of the gearbox volume via the venting arrangement, as described above. Specifically, the arrangement is chosen such that (if the pump is not operating) air in the gearbox volume can escape from the gearbox volume until the reservoir is full of lubricant and / or if the lubricant level in the gearbox volume reaches the opening of the venting arrangement.

[0036] In an additional embodiment, the venting arrangement may connect the reservoir (particularly the upper portion of the reservoir) to the gearbox volume in an airtight manner. Thus, if the pump is not operating, air from the gearbox volume can enter the reservoir via the venting arrangement and / or lubricant can descend into the gearbox.

[0037] In another embodiment, the reservoir is arranged relative to the gearbox volume such that flooding is caused solely by the potential energy of the lubricant, particularly by the fact that the reservoir is arranged above the gearbox volume.

[0038] Based on the operational arrangement of the gearbox system within the wind turbine, the reservoir is positioned above the gearbox volume. Thus, even when the pump is not operating, lubricant will enter the gearbox volume solely by gravity through the lubricant supply arrangement, specifically, entirely or at least partially through / using the same supply conduit, as if the pump were operating. This improves the fail-safe behavior of the gearbox system.

[0039] According to a particular embodiment, the gearbox system does not include an additional reservoir for lubricant. Specifically, the term "reservoir" refers to a storage device capable of receiving at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, and particularly at least 40% of the total lubricant of the gearbox system. It is possible that gearbox volumes and / or small lubricant reservoirs must not necessarily be considered as lubricant reservoirs.

[0040] In another possible alternative embodiment, the gearbox volume and / or reservoir includes a pressurizing device for storing pressurized lubricant, such that the gearbox can be submerged when the pump is not operating. This configuration would allow the reservoir to be positioned at the same height level as or even below the gearbox volume. The "pressurizing device" or "pressurized reservoir" mentioned above does not include a reservoir in which the lubricant is subjected solely to gravity, but rather provides additional means for applying pressure to the lubricant in addition to gravity.

[0041] According to an embodiment, at least one of the bearings in the gearbox (particularly the bearings of the shaft supported in the gearbox housing, the bearings of the planetary gears, the bearings of the sun gear, the bearings of the ring gear, the bearings of the additional gear stages, and / or particularly all the bearings of the rotating shaft of the gearbox) is embodied as a plain bearing. This has the advantage of requiring less maintenance, experiencing less wear, and / or having reduced investment costs. However, plain bearings require constant lubrication, where even a short interruption can lead to serious failure.

[0042] In an additional embodiment, the memory has a constant volume, which reduces design complexity and the likelihood of failure.

[0043] According to another embodiment, at least a portion of the lubricant supply arrangement, reservoir, and / or lubricant return arrangement, or the aforementioned components, is equipped with a heating device for heating the lubricant to a desired level. This embodiment has the advantage that the wind turbine can operate even in cold environmental conditions, wherein submersion of the gearbox volume can only be performed when the lubricant has reached a certain temperature and thus a certain (reduced) viscosity. Preferably, the heating device is arranged upstream of the reservoir.

[0044] On the other hand, the present invention relates to a wind turbine having a nacelle mounted on top of a tower, wherein a gearbox system according to one or more of the foregoing embodiments is mounted to the support structure or main frame of the nacelle for converting the low-speed rotational movement of the rotor of the wind turbine with high torque into a relatively high-speed rotation with relatively reduced torque. The application of said gearbox system in a wind turbine achieves the benefits of reduced wind turbine downtime and increased energy production, while enabling the use of cost-effective types of gearboxes, particularly gearboxes with sliding bearings.

[0045] In another aspect, a method for operating a gearbox system for a wind turbine (particularly a gearbox system according to one of the aforementioned embodiments). According to the embodiment, the gearbox may include: a gearbox having a gearbox volume and a lubrication location; a reservoir for lubricant; a lubricant supply arrangement configured to provide a lubricant flow from the reservoir to the lubrication location; a lubricant return arrangement for facilitating a return flow of lubricant from the gearbox volume to the reservoir, the lubricant return arrangement having at least a pump disposed downstream of the gearbox volume and a return conduit connecting the gearbox volume, the pump, and the reservoir; and a venting arrangement at least connected to the gearbox volume, the venting arrangement having limiting devices.

[0046] The method includes the following steps: operating the pump to deliver lubricant from the gearbox volume to the reservoir, such that no more than 10%, particularly no more than 5%, and preferably no more than 3% of the gearbox volume is filled with lubricant. Furthermore, if the pump becomes inoperable, an additional step is automatically performed by the gearbox system: flooding the gearbox volume (particularly without actively manipulating any lubrication-related components of the gearbox system). Optionally, according to this method, no additional valves or operating devices are triggered, activated, or deactivated, thus flooding is performed automatically. Specifically, when the gearbox volume is flooded, no bypass conduit with active or passive valves connecting the reservoir and the gearbox volume is opened; specifically, the bypass conduit is blocked by valves during normal operating conditions or when the pump is operating, and the bypass conduit is opened under special circumstances (e.g., if the wind turbine does not generate electricity and / or the pump is not operating).

[0047] Technical Solution 1. A gearbox system (100) for a wind turbine (10), said gearbox system (100) comprising at least:

[0048] - Gearbox (36), which has a gearbox volume (104),

[0049] - Lubrication points,

[0050] - A reservoir (120) for a lubricant (136),

[0051] - A lubricant supply arrangement (138) configured to provide a lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) to the lubrication location.

[0052] - A lubricant return arrangement (142) for facilitating the return flow of lubricant (136) from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120), the lubricant return arrangement (142) having at least a pump (146) disposed downstream of the gearbox volume and a return conduit (144) connecting the gearbox volume (104), the pump (146) and the reservoir (120), and

[0053] - A venting arrangement (130) connected at least to the gearbox volume (104), the venting arrangement (130) having a limiting device (132),

[0054] - wherein the gearbox system (100), particularly the reservoir (120), the pump (146), the lubricant supply arrangement (138), the lubricant return arrangement (142), and / or the venting arrangement (130), is configured such that: when the pump (146) is operating, lubricant with appropriate pressure and flow rate flows through the lubricant supply arrangement (138) from the reservoir (120) to the respective lubrication locations, and when the pump (146) is not operating, the gearbox volume (104) is flooded with lubricant (136) from the reservoir (120) via the lubricant supply arrangement (138).

[0055] Technical Solution 2. The gearbox system (100) according to Technical Solution 1 is characterized in that, when submerged, the gearbox volume (104) is filled to the submersion level (105) with lubricant (136) such that all bearings of the gearbox (46), particularly the bearings of the planetary gears, are at least partially covered with lubricant (136).

[0056] Technical Solution 3. The gearbox system (100) according to Technical Solution 2 is characterized in that the gearbox system (100), in particular the reservoir (120), the pump (146), the lubricant supply arrangement (138) and / or the venting arrangement (130), is configured such that submersion can be achieved within 45 minutes, particularly within 30 minutes, preferably within 15 minutes from the moment when the pump (146) becomes inoperable.

[0057] Technical Solution 4. A gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions, characterized in that the gearbox system (100), in particular the reservoir (120), the pump (146), the lubricant supply arrangement (138) and / or the venting arrangement (130), is configured such that the submersion of the gearbox volume (104) is achieved without further, in particular, active actuation of any component of the gearbox system (100), and / or wherein the gearbox system (100) does not include any kind of active actuation device for actively realizing the lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) into the gearbox volume (104) when the pump (146) changes from an operating state to a non-operating state.

[0058] Technical Solution 5. The gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions is characterized in that the venting arrangement (130) includes a limiting device (132) configured such that: through the venting arrangement (130), gas is allowed to flow into and out of the gearbox volume (104), and lubricant is prevented from flowing out of the gearbox volume (104).

[0059] Technical Solution 6. A gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions, characterized in that the venting arrangement (130) connects the upper portion (122) of the reservoir (120) to the gearbox volume (104) and includes a limiting device (132) configured such that: lubricant (136) cannot pass through the venting arrangement (130), but gaseous fluid can pass through the venting arrangement (130), or the flow rate of the lubricant (136) through the venting arrangement (130) is functionally negligible compared to the flow rate of the gaseous fluid.

[0060] Technical Solution 7. The gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions is characterized in that the reservoir (120) and the gearbox volume (104) are exclusively and airtightly connected by the lubrication supply arrangement (138), the lubricant return arrangement (142) and the venting arrangement (130).

[0061] Technical Solution 8. A gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions, characterized in that the reservoir (120) is arranged relative to the gearbox volume (104) such that the flooding is driven only by the potential energy of the lubricant (136), and in particular, wherein the reservoir (120) is arranged above the gearbox volume (104) in the vertical direction (148).

[0062] Technical Solution 9. The gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions is characterized in that it does not include a second reservoir for lubricant (136).

[0063] Technical Solution 10. A gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions, characterized in that the reservoir (120) and / or the lubricant return arrangement (142) includes a filter device (124) for separating gaseous components from the lubricant (136) in at least part, particularly wherein the filter device (124) is arranged within the reservoir (120) to effectively separate the inlet (126) and outlet (128) of the reservoir (120).

[0064] Technical Solution 11. A gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions, characterized in that the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is at least 40%, particularly at least 60%, preferably at least 80% of the total lubrication volume of the gearbox system (100), and / or wherein the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is greater than 300 liters, particularly greater than 400 liters, preferably greater than 500 liters, and / or less than 1000 liters, particularly less than 800 liters, preferably less than 600 liters.

[0065] Technical Solution 12. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of the aforementioned technical solutions 1 to 5, characterized in that the reservoir includes a pressurizing device for storing pressurized lubricant and / or is embodied as a pressurized reservoir.

[0066] Technical Solution 13. The gearbox system (100) according to Technical Solution 12, characterized in that the venting arrangement (130) and / or the limiting device (132) are configured such that: when the gearbox volume (104) is flooded with lubricant, the gaseous fluid in the gearbox volume (104) can be released, and / or when the level of lubricant (136) in the gearbox volume (104) is reduced by operating the pump (146), the gaseous fluid can enter the gearbox volume (104).

[0067] Technical Solution 14. A wind turbine (10) comprising: a turbine rotor (18) including a hub (20) and at least one rotor blade (22) mounted to a rotatable turbine shaft (44), wherein the rotor blade (22) is rotatably arranged about its longitudinal axis at the hub (20); an induction generator (42) having a stator and a rotor; and a gearbox system (100) according to one of the foregoing technical solutions for connecting the generator (42) to the turbine shaft (44) for rotating together with the turbine shaft (44).

[0068] Technical Solution 15. A method for operating a gearbox system (100) for a wind turbine (10), the gearbox system (100) comprising: a gearbox (36) having a gearbox volume (104) and a lubrication location; a reservoir (120) for a lubricant (136); a lubricant supply arrangement (138) configured to provide a lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) to the lubrication location; and a lubricant return arrangement (142) for facilitating a flow from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir. The method includes the following steps: a return flow of lubricant (136) from a reservoir (120), the lubricant return arrangement (142) having at least a pump (146) disposed downstream of the gearbox volume and a return conduit (144) connecting the gearbox volume (104), the pump (146) and the reservoir (120); and a venting arrangement (130) connected at least to the gearbox volume (104), the venting arrangement (130) having a limiting device (132).

[0069] - Operate the pump (146) such that lubricant (136) is transported from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120) such that no more than 10%, particularly no more than 5%, and preferably no more than 3% of the gearbox volume (104) is filled with lubricant (136), and

[0070] - and if the pump (146) becomes inoperable, the gearbox volume (104) is flooded, especially without actively manipulating any lubrication-related components of the gearbox system (100) and especially without acting on any moving parts other than the moving oil and gas on top.

[0071] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be further supported and described with reference to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0072] The invention (including its preferred mode) is fully disclosed and can be practiced by one of ordinary skill in the art in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0073] Figure 1 The illustration shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure;

[0074] Figure 2 The illustration shows a simplified interior view of the nacelle of a wind turbine with a gearbox system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0075] Figure 3 Indicates by according to Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the gearbox system, in which the wind turbine is in normal operation and the pump is working;

[0076] Figure 4 Indicates by according to Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a gearbox system, in which the gearbox volume is submerged.

[0077] The individual features depicted in the accompanying drawings are shown relative to each other and are therefore not necessarily drawn to scale. Even in different embodiments, similar or identical elements in the drawings are indicated using the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0078] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The various examples are provided by way of explanation rather than limitation of the invention. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its scope or spirit. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is intended that the invention cover such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0079] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary wind turbine 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine 10 is a horizontal axis wind turbine. Alternatively, the wind turbine 10 may be a vertical axis wind turbine. In an exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine 10 includes a tower 12 extending from a support system 14, a nacelle 16 mounted on the tower 12, and a rotor 18 coupled to the nacelle 16. The rotor 18 includes a rotatable hub 20 and at least one rotor blade 22 coupled to and extending outward from the hub 20. In an exemplary embodiment, the rotor 18 has three rotor blades 22. In an alternative embodiment, the rotor 18 includes more or fewer than three rotor blades 22. In an exemplary embodiment, the tower 12 is made of tubular steel to define a cavity between the support system 14 and the nacelle 16. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). In an alternative embodiment, tower 12 is any suitable type of tower with any suitable height.

[0080] Rotor blades 22 are spaced around hub 20 to facilitate the rotation of rotor 18, enabling kinetic energy to be converted from wind energy into usable mechanical energy, and subsequently into electrical energy. Rotor blades 22 are fitted to hub 20 by connecting blade root portions 24 to hub 20 at multiple load transfer regions 26. Load transfer regions 26 may have hub load transfer regions and blade load transfer regions (neither of which are located in the hub 20 hub 2 ... Figure 1 (As shown in the figure). The load induced to the rotor blades 22 is transferred to the hub 20 via the load transfer region 26.

[0081] In one embodiment, the rotor blade 22 has a length ranging from about 15 meters (m) to about 91 m. Alternatively, the rotor blade 22 may have any suitable length that enables the wind turbine 10 to function as described herein. Other non-limiting examples of blade length include 20 m or less, 37 m, 48.7 m, 50.2 m, 52.2 m, or greater than 91 m. When wind impacts the rotor blade 22 from the wind direction 28, the rotor 18 rotates about the axis of rotation 30. As the rotor blade 22 rotates and is subjected to centrifugal force, the rotor blade 22 is also subjected to various forces and torques. Accordingly, the rotor blade 22 may deflect and / or rotate from a neutral or non-deflected position to a deflected position.

[0082] Furthermore, the pitch angle of the rotor blade 22 (i.e., the angle that determines the angle of view of the rotor blade 22 relative to the wind direction) can be changed by the pitch system 32 to control the load and power generated by the wind turbine 10 by adjusting the angular position of at least one rotor blade 22 relative to the wind vector. The pitch axis 34 of the rotor blade 22 is shown. During operation of the wind turbine 10, the pitch system 32 can change the pitch angle of the rotor blade 22 such that the rotor blade 22 moves to a feathered position, such that the angle of view of at least one rotor blade 22 relative to the wind vector provides the minimum surface area of ​​the rotor blade 22 that will be oriented toward the wind vector, which promotes a reduction in rotational speed and / or promotes stall of the rotor 18.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the blade pitch of each rotor blade 22 is individually controlled by the wind turbine controller 36 or by the pitch control system 80. Alternatively, the blade pitch for all rotor blades 22 can be simultaneously controlled by the control system.

[0084] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, when the wind direction 28 changes, the yaw direction of the nacelle 16 can be rotated about the yaw axis 38 to position the rotor blades 22 relative to the wind direction 28.

[0085] In an exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine controller 36 is shown as centralized within the nacelle 16; however, the wind turbine controller 36 may be a distributed system distributed throughout the wind turbine 10, on the support system 14, within the wind farm, and / or at a remote control center. The wind turbine controller 36 includes a processor 40 configured to perform the methods and / or steps described herein. Furthermore, many other components described herein include processors. As used herein, the term "processor" is not limited to an integrated circuit referred to in the art as a computer, but broadly refers to a controller, microcontroller, microcomputer, programmable logic controller (PLC), application-specific integrated circuit, and other programmable circuits, and these terms are used interchangeably herein. It should be understood that the processor and / or control system may also include memory, input channels, and / or output channels.

[0086] Figure 2 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the wind turbine 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine 10 includes a nacelle 16 and a rotor 18 rotatably coupled to the nacelle 16. More specifically, the hub 20 of the rotor 18 is rotatably coupled to a generator 42 positioned within the nacelle 16 via a main shaft 44, a gearbox 46, a high-speed shaft 48, and a coupling 50. In an exemplary embodiment, the main shaft 44 is configured to be at least partially coaxial with the longitudinal axis (not shown) of the nacelle 16. Rotation of the main shaft 44 drives the gearbox 46, which in turn drives the high-speed shaft 48 by converting the relatively slow rotational movement of the rotor 18 and the main shaft 44 into a relatively rapid rotational movement of the high-speed shaft 48. The high-speed shaft 48 is connected to the generator 42 by means of the coupling 50 for generating electrical energy.

[0087] The gearbox 46 and generator 42 may be supported by a main support structure frame of the nacelle 16, which optionally embodies a main frame 52. The gearbox 45 may include a gearbox housing 102 connected to the main frame 52 via one or more torque arms 103. In an exemplary embodiment, the nacelle 16 also includes a main front support bearing 60 and a main rear support bearing 62. Furthermore, the generator 42 may be mounted to the main frame 52 by detachment from the support device 54, particularly to prevent vibrations of the generator 42 from being introduced into the main frame 52 and thereby causing a noise emission source.

[0088] Preferably, the main frame 52 is configured to bear the weight of the components of the rotor 18 and nacelle 16, as well as all loads caused by wind and rotational loads, and is further configured to direct these loads into the tower 12 of the wind turbine 10. The rotor shaft 44, generator 42, gearbox 46, high-speed shaft 48, couplings 50, and any associated fastening, support, and / or fixing devices (including, but not limited to, support 52 and front support bearing 60 and rear support bearing 62) are sometimes referred to as the drive system 64.

[0089] Gearbox 46 is part of gearbox system 100, which may also include a reservoir 120 for lubricant 136 for lubricating gears 108, 110, 112 and bearings 116, 118 of gearbox 46, lubricant conduit arrangements 138 and 142, lubricant pump 146, filter device 154 and / or cooling device 152 for lubricant 136, such as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the diagram.

[0090] The nacelle 16 may also include a yaw drive mechanism 56, which can be used to rotate the nacelle 16 about a yaw axis 38, and thereby also rotate the rotor 18 about the yaw axis 38 to control the angle of the rotor blades 22 relative to the wind direction 28.

[0091] To properly position the cabin relative to wind direction 28, cabin 16 may also include at least one meteorological mast 58, which may include a wind vane and an anemometer (neither of which is in the wind direction 28). Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram). The mast 58 provides information to the wind turbine controller 36, which may include wind direction and / or wind speed.

[0092] In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch system 32 is at least partially arranged as a pitch assembly 66 in the hub 20. The pitch assembly 66 includes one or more pitch drive systems 68 and at least one sensor 70. Each pitch drive system 68 is coupled to a corresponding rotor blade 22 (in Figure 1 (as shown in the figure) to modulate the pitch angle of the rotor blades 22 along the pitch axis 34. Figure 2 Only one of the three pitch drive systems 68 is shown in the image.

[0093] In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch assembly 66 includes at least one pitch bearing 72, which is coupled to the hub 20 and the corresponding rotor blades 22. Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) for rotating the corresponding rotor blades 22 about the pitch axis 34. The pitch drive system 68 includes a pitch drive motor 74, a pitch drive gearbox 76, and a pitch drive pinion 78. The pitch drive motor 74 is coupled to the pitch drive gearbox 76 such that the pitch drive motor 74 applies mechanical force to the pitch drive gearbox 76. The pitch drive gearbox 76 is coupled to the pitch drive pinion 78 such that the pitch drive pinion 78 is rotated by the pitch drive gearbox 76. A pitch bearing 72 is coupled to the pitch drive pinion 78 such that rotation of the pitch drive pinion 78 causes rotation of the pitch bearing 72.

[0094] The pitch drive system 68 is coupled to the wind turbine controller 36 for adjusting the pitch angle of the rotor blades 22 upon receiving one or more signals from the wind turbine controller 36. In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch drive motor 74 is any suitable motor driven by electrical power and / or a hydraulic system that enables the pitch assembly 66 to function as described herein. Alternatively, the pitch assembly 66 may include any suitable structure, configuration, arrangement, and / or components, such as, but not limited to, hydraulic cylinders, springs, and / or servo mechanisms. In some embodiments, the pitch drive motor 74 is driven by energy extracted from the rotational inertia of the hub 20 and / or from a stored energy source (not shown) that supplies energy to the components of the wind turbine 10.

[0095] The pitch assembly 66 also includes one or more pitch control systems 80 for controlling the pitch drive system 68 based on control signals from the wind turbine controller 36 in specific priority situations and / or during rotor 18 overspeed. In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch assembly 66 includes at least one pitch control system 80 communicatively coupled to a corresponding pitch drive system 68 for controlling the pitch drive system 68 independently of the wind turbine controller 36. In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch control system 80 is coupled to the pitch drive system 68 and the sensor 70. During normal operation of the wind turbine 10, the wind turbine controller 36 controls the pitch drive system 68 to adjust the pitch angle of the rotor blades 22.

[0096] In one embodiment, particularly when rotor 18 is operating at overspeed, pitch control system 80 overrides wind turbine controller 36, causing wind turbine controller 36 to cease controlling pitch control system 80 and pitch drive system 68. Therefore, pitch control system 80 enables pitch drive system 68 to move rotor blades 22 to a feathering position to reduce the rotational speed of rotor 18.

[0097] According to embodiments, a power generator 84, including, for example, a battery and / or capacitor, is arranged at or within hub 20 and coupled to sensor 70, pitch control system 80, and pitch drive system 68 to provide a power source to these components. In an exemplary embodiment, power generator 84 provides a continuous power source to pitch assembly 66 during operation of wind turbine 10. In an alternative embodiment, power generator 84 provides power to pitch assembly 66 only during electrical power loss events of wind turbine 10. Electrical power loss events may include grid losses or voltage dips (DIP), electrical system failures of wind turbine 10, and / or failure of wind turbine controller 36. During electrical power loss events, power generator 84 operates to provide electrical power to pitch assembly 66, enabling pitch assembly 66 to operate during the electrical power loss events.

[0098] In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch drive system 68, sensor 70, pitch control system 80, cables, and power generator 84 are each positioned within a cavity 86 defined by the inner surface 88 of the hub 20. In an alternative embodiment, the components are positioned relative to the outer surface of the hub 20 and may be directly or indirectly coupled to the outer surface.

[0099] Figure 3 Indicates through, such as Figure 2 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the gearbox system 100. The gearbox 46 includes a gearbox housing 102 defining a gearbox volume 104. Within the gearbox volume 104, a ring gear 112 interacts with a planetary gear 110, which engages with a sun gear 108 located at the center of the gearbox volume 104.

[0100] At least planetary gear 110 is rotatably supported on a relevant shaft of a planetary gear carrier (not shown) (particularly supported by a sliding bearing 118). Alternatively or additionally, the rotational shaft of sun gear 108 is supported by bearing 116 (particularly a sliding bearing) in a specific support within, for example, the gearbox housing 102. In the case where ring gear 112 is rotatably supported by gearbox 46, a corresponding bearing, particularly a sliding bearing, is provided.

[0101] Lubricant 136, particularly pressurized lubricant 136, is provided for at least one of the bearings of the gearbox 46, at least all of the bearings, and / or at least one of the contact areas of the meshing gears. In the following text, the term "lubricated location" will be used to indicate a component and / or location that requires lubrication for proper operation without suffering damage and / or unacceptable loss.

[0102] In order to lubricate the lubrication points, the gearbox system 100 includes a reservoir 120 for storing lubricant 136 and a lubricant supply arrangement 138 that connects the reservoir 120 to the lubrication points, particularly to sliding bearings (such as bearing 116 of the sun gear 108 and / or bearing 118 of the planetary gear 110).

[0103] For example, the lubricant supply arrangement 138 may include a system of supply conduits 140 and channels that guide through the gearbox housing 102, through the rotating shaft and / or through the gear carrier of the planetary gear 110 to reach a specific lubrication location.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the reservoir 120 is arranged above the gearbox volume 104, thus there is a height difference between the reservoir 120 and the gearbox volume 104. As a result, the lubricant 136 located in the reservoir 120 has a higher potential energy than the lubricant 136 arranged in the gearbox volume 104.

[0105] Specifically, the outlet 128 of the reservoir 120 has a vertical distance of at least 20 cm, particularly at least 25 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, more preferably at least 35 cm, and particularly preferably at least 50 cm in the vertical direction 100 relative to the surface level of the lubricant in the submerged gearbox volume 104 or the vertical center point of the gearbox volume 104.

[0106] Specifically, the lubricant supply arrangement 138 is the only passage or passage system connecting the reservoir 120 to the gearbox volume 104. Optionally, there is no additional bypass passage that could be closed by a valve or switch connecting the reservoir 120 to the gearbox volume 104.

[0107] The gearbox system 100 further includes a lubricant return arrangement 142 having at least one return conduit 144 connecting the gearbox volume 104 to the reservoir 120. The lubricant return arrangement 142 includes a pump 146, possibly a filter device 150, and a cooling device 148. Thus, the pump 146 is arranged downstream of the gearbox volume 104 and upstream of the reservoir 120. Specifically, the return conduit 144 and / or the pump 146 are connected to the bottom portion of the gearbox volume 104, particularly to the lubricant sample 106 of the gearbox 46.

[0108] Terms such as "top," "bottom," "upper side," "lower side," "above," "lower," "left," "right," "side," and / or "on the other side" should be used in accordance with... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The illustration is explained in the context of the vertical direction 160 and the horizontal direction 162 shown, with particular consideration of the operating positions of the gearbox 46 and the gearbox system 100 within the nacelle 16 of the wind turbine 10.

[0109] It should be noted that, according to the specific embodiment, the lubricant return arrangement 142 should not be understood as a bypass conduit for flooding the gearbox volume 104 with lubricant, especially since a reverse return flow from the reservoir 120 into the gearbox volume 104 via the lubricant return arrangement 142 is not possible, particularly because the inlet 106 of the return conduit 144 into the reservoir 120 is in the region of the upper portion 122 of the reservoir 120.

[0110] Furthermore, a venting arrangement 130 with a limiting device 132 and at least a vent duct 134 is provided for connecting the reservoir 122 to the gearbox volume 104, specifically for the exchange of gaseous fluids such as air. The limitation of the gaseous fluid by the venting arrangement 130 is caused by the limiting device 132, which allows the gaseous fluid to pass through, primarily for exchange, but prevents the effective flow rate of lubricant 136 through the venting arrangement 130. The limiting device 132 can be embodied in the passage of a vent duct with a reduced diameter.

[0111] Additionally, the reservoir 120 includes a filter device 124 for separating gaseous components, such as air, from the lubricant 136. For this purpose, the filter device 124 is arranged within the reservoir 120 such that the inlet 126 of the reservoir 120 is separated from the outlet 128 leading to the lubrication supply arrangement 138 by the filter device. Therefore, the lubricant 136 entering the reservoir 120 through the inlet 126 must pass through the filter device 124 before entering the lubricant supply arrangement 138 via the outlet 128.

[0112] The filter device 124 helps to separate small air bubbles from the lubricant 136, which rise to the upper portion 122 of the reservoir 120. The collected gas can enter the venting arrangement 130 from the upper portion 122 and reach the gearbox volume 104 (especially if the pump 146 continues to deliver lubricant 136 from the gearbox volume 104 to the reservoir 120).

[0113] However, when the lubricant 136 reaches the venting arrangement 130, it at least largely prevents the lubricant 136 from passing through the limiting device 132 of the venting arrangement 130.

[0114] Alternatively or alternatively, the venting arrangement 130 is disclosed to include a limiting device 132 in the area of ​​the port connecting the venting arrangement 130 to the gearbox volume 104 or directly at the port, and / or to include a limiting device in the area of ​​the port connecting the venting arrangement 130 to the reservoir 120 or directly at the port.

[0115] Alternatively or alternatively, the ventilation arrangement 130 may be configured such that the ventilation duct 134 is wholly or at least partially configured as a limiting device 132.

[0116] Subsequently, when the lubricant 136 reaches the venting arrangement 130, a certain operating pressure of the lubricant 136 can be established between the pump 146 and the lubrication position, in particular, so that the reservoir 120 is filled with pressurized lubricant 136.

[0117] Figure 3The gearbox system 100 and gearbox 46 installed in the wind turbine 10 are shown during normal operating condition 100. Therefore, pump 146 is operational and is conveying lubricant 136 from reservoir 106 to storage tank 120, thereby supplying pressurized lubricant 136 to the lubrication points. Furthermore, gearbox volume 104 is not filled with lubricant 106; instead, gearbox volume 104 has almost no lubricant 136, with lubricant 136 originating from the lubrication points collected in the lubrication reservoir 106 at the bottom of gearbox volume 104.

[0118] Figure 4 This refers to the gearbox system 100 when pump 146 becomes inoperable. This could be, for example, if the wind speed is below the cut-in wind speed, or if the wind turbine is disconnected from the grid and experiences a complete power loss. Therefore, no energy is available to or will be available to pump 146, and pump 146 subsequently stops operating. Typically, in this situation, the wind turbine controller 36 of the wind turbine 10 initiates a stop procedure or emergency stop for the rotor 18. As a result, the drive system 46 of the wind turbine 10 enters an idling state, where minor movement and / or rotation can be performed.

[0119] When the pump becomes inoperable, the beneficial behavior of the gearbox system 100 (particularly as described throughout this patent application) is achieved: the lubricant 136 located in the reservoir 120 begins to flow into the gearbox volume 104 through the lubricant supply arrangement 138, without requiring any further action or methodological steps, such as enabling / disabling valves, opening / closing valves, or engaging / disengaging an additional pump. The lubricant 136 begins to submerge the gearbox volume 104 solely due to gravity.

[0120] In response to the lubricant 136 flooding the gearbox volume 104, the gaseous fluid present in the gearbox volume 104 passes through the venting arrangement 130 and enters the reservoir 120. Therefore, there is an exchange of lubricant 136 and gaseous fluid between the reservoir 120 and the gearbox volume 104.

[0121] Specifically, the reservoir, lubricant supply arrangement, and / or venting arrangement are constructed and arranged such that within 45 minutes, particularly 30 minutes, and preferably 15 minutes from the moment the pump becomes inoperable, the pump is submerged to a predetermined submersion level 105. The submersion level 105 is selected such that the sliding bearing 118 of the planetary gear 110 is at least partially lubricated by the lubricant 136 via splash lubrication.

[0122] When the gearbox volume 104 is submerged by lubricant 136, most of the interior of the reservoir 120 is empty.

[0123] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention (including the best mode) and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the invention (including making and using any device or system, and performing any incorporated methods). The patentability of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art, such as applying the invention to different types of gearboxes, and not just to planetary gears. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

[0124] This invention is not limited to the embodiments and modifications described above, and may be embodied in various forms within its spirit. For example, technical features of embodiments according to the aspects described in the Summary of the Invention section and modifications corresponding to those technical features may be replaced or combined as appropriate to solve some or all of the problems described above or to achieve some or all of the effects described above. For example, this disclosure is not limited to wind turbines including such gearbox systems, but also relates to devices and machines having gearbox systems in which the submersion of the gearbox volume has a positive effect, particularly when the lubricant pump becomes inoperable (e.g., for gearboxes in ocean-going vessels). Technical features may also be omitted as appropriate unless they are described as essential in this specification.

[0125] Reference number

[0126] 10 Wind turbines

[0127] 12 towers

[0128] 14 Support System

[0129] 16 Cabin

[0130] 18 rotors

[0131] 20 Rotatable hubs

[0132] 22 Rotor blades

[0133] 24. Leaf base

[0134] 26 Load Transfer Area

[0135] 28 Wind direction

[0136] 30 Rotation axis

[0137] 32 Pitch System

[0138] 34 Pitch axis

[0139] 36 Wind turbine controller

[0140] 38 Yaw axis

[0141] 40 processors

[0142] 42 Generator

[0143] 44 Spindle

[0144] 46 Gearbox

[0145] 48 High-speed shaft

[0146] 50 Connecting parts

[0147] 52 Main Frame

[0148] 54 Disconnect from support device

[0149] 56 Yaw drive mechanism

[0150] 58. Weather mast

[0151] 60 Front Support Bearing

[0152] 62 Rear Support Bearing

[0153] 64 Drive System

[0154] 66 Pitch Assembly

[0155] 68 Pitch Drive System

[0156] 70 sensors

[0157] 72 Pitch Bearing

[0158] 74 Pitch Drive Motors

[0159] 76 Pitch Drive Gearbox

[0160] 78 Pitch drive pinion

[0161] 80 Pitch Control System

[0162] 84 Power Generator

[0163] 86 Cavity

[0164] 88 Inner Surface

[0165] 100 Gearbox System

[0166] 102 Gearbox Housing

[0167] 103 Torque Arm

[0168] 104 Gearbox volume

[0169] 105 Flood Level

[0170] 106 Lubricant reservoir

[0171] 108 Sun Gears

[0172] 110 Planetary Gears

[0173] 112 Ring Gear

[0174] 116 Bearing (Sun Gear)

[0175] 118 Bearing (Planetary Gear)

[0176] 120 storage container

[0177] 121 Ventilation opening

[0178] 122 Upper Part

[0179] 124 Filter Device

[0180] 126 Entrance

[0181] 128 Exports

[0182] 130 Ventilation Arrangement

[0183] 132 Limiting Device

[0184] 134 Ventilation Tube

[0185] 136 Lubricant

[0186] 138 Lubricant supply arrangement

[0187] 140 Provide catheter

[0188] 142 Lubricant Return Arrangement

[0189] 144 Return catheter

[0190] 146 pumps

[0191] 148 Cooling equipment

[0192] 150 Filter Equipment

[0193] 160 Vertical direction

[0194] 162 Horizontal direction.

Claims

1. A gearbox system (100) for a wind turbine (10), said gearbox system (100) comprising at least: - Gearbox (46), which has a gearbox volume (104), - Lubrication points, - A reservoir (120) for storing lubricant (136), - A lubricant supply arrangement (138) configured to provide a lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) to the lubrication location. - A lubricant return arrangement (142) for facilitating the return flow of lubricant (136) from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120), the lubricant return arrangement (142) having at least a pump (146) disposed downstream of the gearbox volume and a return conduit (144) connecting the gearbox volume (104), the pump (146) and the reservoir (120), and - A venting arrangement (130) connecting the upper portion (122) of the reservoir (120) to the gearbox volume (104), the venting arrangement (130) having a limiting device (132) configured such that: gas is allowed to flow into and out of the gearbox volume (104) through the venting arrangement (130), and lubricant is prevented from flowing out of the gearbox volume (104). - in, The gearbox system (100) is configured such that: when the pump (146) is operating, lubricant with appropriate pressure and flow rate flows through the lubricant supply arrangement (138) from the reservoir (120) to the respective lubrication locations, and when the pump (146) is not operating, the gearbox volume (104) is flooded with lubricant (136) from the reservoir (120) via the lubricant supply arrangement (138), and The gearbox system (100) does not include actuation devices configured to submerge the gearbox.

2. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When submerged, the gearbox volume (104) is filled to the submersion level (105) with lubricant (136) such that all bearings of the gearbox (46) are at least partially covered with lubricant (136).

3. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, When submerged, the gearbox volume (104) is filled to the submersion level (105) with lubricant (136) such that the bearings of the planetary gears are at least partially covered by the lubricant (136).

4. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gearbox system (100) is configured such that flooding can be achieved within 45 minutes from the moment the pump (146) becomes inoperable.

5. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reservoir (120), the pump (146), the lubricant supply arrangement (138), and / or the venting arrangement (130) are configured such that flooding can be achieved within 45 minutes from the moment the pump (146) becomes inoperable.

6. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The gearbox system (100) is configured such that flooding can be achieved within 30 minutes from the moment the pump (146) becomes inoperable.

7. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The gearbox system (100) is configured such that flooding can be achieved within 15 minutes from the moment the pump (146) becomes inoperable.

8. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gearbox system (100) is configured such that the submersion of the gearbox volume (104) is achieved without further manipulation of any component of the gearbox system (100), and / or wherein, The gearbox system (100) does not include any kind of active control device for actively realizing the lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) into the gearbox volume (104) when the pump (146) changes from an operating state to an inoperable state.

9. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The reservoir (120), the pump (146), the lubricant supply arrangement (138), and / or the venting arrangement (130) are configured such that the submersion of the gearbox volume (104) is achieved without further manipulation of any component of the gearbox system (100), and / or wherein, The gearbox system (100) does not include any kind of active control device for actively realizing the lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) into the gearbox volume (104) when the pump (146) changes from an operating state to an inoperable state.

10. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The gearbox system (100) is configured such that the submersion of the gearbox volume (104) is achieved without active manipulation of any component of the gearbox system (100), and / or wherein, The gearbox system (100) does not include any kind of active control device for actively realizing the lubricating flow from the reservoir (120) into the gearbox volume (104) when the pump (146) changes from an operating state to an inoperable state.

11. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The limiting device (132) is configured such that the lubricant (136) cannot pass through the venting arrangement (130), but the gaseous fluid can pass through the venting arrangement (130), or the flow rate of the lubricant (136) through the venting arrangement (130) is functionally negligible compared to the flow rate of the gaseous fluid.

12. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The reservoir (120) and the gearbox volume (104) are exclusively and airtightly connected via the lubricant supply arrangement (138), the lubricant return arrangement (142), and the venting arrangement (130).

13. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The reservoir (120) is arranged relative to the gearbox volume (104) such that the flooding is driven solely by the potential energy of the lubricant (136).

14. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The storage device (120) is arranged vertically (148) above the gearbox volume (104).

15. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The second reservoir for storing lubricant (136) is not included.

16. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The reservoir (120) and / or the lubricant return arrangement (142) include a filter device (124) for separating gaseous components from the lubricant (136) at least in part.

17. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The filter device (124) is arranged inside the reservoir (120) to effectively separate the inlet (126) and outlet (128) of the reservoir (120).

18. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The internal volume of the reservoir (120) is at least 40% of the total lubrication volume of the gearbox system (100), and / or the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is greater than 300 liters and / or less than 1000 liters.

19. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The internal volume of the reservoir (120) is at least 60% of the total lubrication volume of the gearbox system (100), and / or the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is greater than 300 liters and / or less than 1000 liters.

20. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The internal volume of the reservoir (120) is at least 80% of the total lubrication volume of the gearbox system (100), and / or the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is greater than 300 liters and / or less than 1000 liters.

21. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The internal volume of the reservoir (120) is at least 40% of the total lubrication volume of the gearbox system (100), and / or the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is greater than 400 liters and / or less than 800 liters.

22. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The internal volume of the reservoir (120) is at least 40% of the total lubrication volume of the gearbox system (100), and / or the internal volume of the reservoir (120) is greater than 500 liters and / or less than 600 liters.

23. The gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The reservoir includes a pressurizing device for storing pressurized lubricant or is embodied as a pressurized reservoir.

24. The gearbox system (100) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The venting arrangement (130) and / or the limiting device (132) are configured such that: when the gearbox volume (104) is flooded with lubricant, the gaseous fluid within the gearbox volume (104) can be released, and / or when the level of lubricant (136) in the gearbox volume (104) is reduced by operating the pump (146), the gaseous fluid can enter the gearbox volume (104).

25. A wind turbine (10), comprising: A turbine rotor (18) comprising a hub (20) and at least one rotor blade (22) mounted to a rotatable turbine shaft (44), wherein the rotor blade (22) is rotatably arranged about its longitudinal axis at the hub (20); an induction generator (42) having a stator and a rotor; and a gearbox system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 24 for coupling the generator (42) to the turbine shaft (44) for rotating together with the turbine shaft (44).

26. A method for operating a gearbox system (100) for a wind turbine (10), the gearbox system (100) comprising: A gearbox (46) having a gearbox volume (104) and a lubrication position; a reservoir (120) for storing lubricant (136); a lubricant supply arrangement (138) configured to provide a lubricant flow from the reservoir (120) to the lubrication position; and a lubricant return arrangement (142) for facilitating the return flow of lubricant (136) from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120), the lubricant return arrangement (142) having at least a pump (146) disposed downstream of the gearbox volume and connected to the gearbox. The method comprises the following steps: a volume (104), a return conduit (144) for the pump (146) and the reservoir (120); and a venting arrangement (130) connecting the upper portion (122) of the reservoir (120) to the gearbox volume (104), the venting arrangement (130) having a limiting device (132) configured such that gas is allowed to flow into and out of the gearbox volume (104) through the venting arrangement (130), and lubricant is prevented from flowing out of the gearbox volume (104). - Operate the pump (146) such that lubricant (136) is transported from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120) such that no more than 10% of the gearbox volume (104) is filled with lubricant (136), and - And if the pump (146) becomes inoperable, the gearbox volume (104) is flooded, wherein no operating device configured to achieve the flooding of the gearbox is triggered, enabled or disabled.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, Lubricant (136) is transported from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120) such that no more than 5% of the gearbox volume (104) is filled with lubricant (136).

28. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, Lubricant (136) is transported from the gearbox volume (104) to the reservoir (120) such that no more than 3% of the gearbox volume (104) is filled with lubricant (136).

29. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, If the pump (146) becomes inoperable, the gearbox volume (104) is flooded without actively manipulating any lubrication-related components of the gearbox system (100).

30. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, If the pump (146) becomes inoperable, the gearbox volume (104) is flooded without acting on any moving parts other than the moving oil and gas on top.

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