Tower for a wind turbine and wind turbine

Abstract

A tower for a wind turbine is disclosed, the wind turbine comprising a tower, a nacelle and a rotor with at least one rotor blade. The tower is configured for supporting the nacelle and the rotor on a support system. The tower itself can be built with an upper top end for supporting the nacelle and a lower support end for being placed on the support system. The generated electrical energy is transmitted from the nacelle to an electrical grid via a power cable, preferably via power electronics, switches and / or transformers. The nacelle can be rotated around a yaw axis depending on the current wind direction. The rotation of the nacelle will thus introduce a twist into the power cable, which twist causes a deviation (shortening) of the length of the power cable. Furthermore, the tower comprises at least one radial cable guide for receiving the cable and a cable support arrangement for supporting the cable in a beneficial way. In addition, the tower comprises anti-twist fixation means configured for reducing and / or preventing the propagation of the cable twist of the cable of the suspended section into the power cable of the loop section.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to a tower for a wind turbine, and more particularly to an arrangement of a nacelle of a wind turbine on a tower, wherein power cables are provided from the nacelle on top of the tower to a lower part of the tower. BACKGROUND

[0002] Wind power is considered one of the cleanest and environmentally friendliest energy sources currently available and, in this regard, wind turbines have received increasing attention. A modern wind turbine can include a tower, a generator, a gearbox, a nacelle, and one or more rotor blades.

[0003] In EP 2577058 B1 a tower for a wind turbine and a cable guiding device for a tower of a wind turbine is provided. Within the tower, power cables are guided from the nacelle to the ground. A cable guiding system is installed for optimizing the overall capacity of the power and reducing wear between the cables. This object is achieved by using at least two bunching devices.

[0004] It is an object to provide a tower for a wind turbine having cables guided from the nacelle to a lower part of the tower, wherein the disadvantages of the prior art, such as increased wear and / or complexity of related devices and / or arrangements, are avoided or reduced. SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or can become apparent from this description, or can be learned by practice of the disclosure.

[0006] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a tower for a wind turbine as described herein, and to a wind turbine as described herein. Particular embodiments are set forth in the appended claims.

[0007] In particular or in the alternative, a tower for a wind turbine is disclosed. The wind turbine comprises a tower, a nacelle, and a rotor having at least one rotor blade. The rotor is rotatably supported by the nacelle such that the rotor is rotatable about an at least partially horizontal rotor axis.

[0008] The tower is configured for supporting the nacelle and the rotor on a support system, preferably on a support system arranged on the ground. The tower itself can be built with an upper top end for supporting the nacelle and a lower support end for being placed on the support system.

[0009] It will be noted that any indication regarding the positioning, the particular location, and / or the arrangement of the wind turbine, the tower, and / or parts of the tower will be understood with respect to an erected and / or operating wind turbine and its tower.

[0010] Furthermore, specific directions and orientations, such as longitudinal, axial, radial, circumferential, inner and / or outer, refer to the geometry of the tower. For example, a longitudinal axis or center line of the tower has a position more inner (when seen in radial direction) than a tower wall having an outer position.

[0011] The tower can comprise an electrical connection arrangement which is mounted directly or indirectly to the tower at a level lower than the top end. Additionally or in the alternative, the electrical connection arrangement can be placed on the ground in or near the tower. The electrical connection arrangement is configured to receive a lower cable end of a power cable which extends from the nacelle through the tower, such that the power cable can be connected to the electrical connection arrangement.

[0012] At least an electrical power component, e.g. a generator, is arranged within the nacelle, wherein a rotor, e.g. a rotor shaft, is supported by the nacelle such that the generator can be rotated by rotation of the rotor. The rotor blades capture kinetic energy from the wind using known airfoil principles and transfer the kinetic energy by rotation to turn the shaft, and thereby couple the rotor blades to the generator via a gearbox, or directly to the generator if no gearbox is used. Thereby, the kinetic energy of the wind harvested by the rotor blades is converted into mechanical rotational energy, and further converted into electrical energy by the generator. The generated electrical energy is then transmitted from the nacelle to the electrical grid via a power cable, preferably via power electronics, switches and / or transformers.

[0013] According to embodiments, power electronics, switches and / or transformers can be provided within the nacelle and connected to the generator, such that electrical energy as generated by the generator having a low voltage of 400 V to 1000 V is directly converted in the nacelle to medium voltage, e.g. having a voltage of around 10 kV or between 20-35 kV, by said components. In this case, at least two, preferably three cables having a sufficiently large cross section are used for transmitting the electrical energy from the nacelle through the tower to the electrical connection point, e.g. to the electrical connection arrangement.

[0014] In particular, the conversion to medium voltage directly in the tower can be implemented if the overall rated power of the wind turbine exceeds 4.6 MW, preferably exceeds 4.8 MW.

[0015] A power cable according to the present disclosure is a conductive device configured for transmitting one type of electrical current, in particular having a single phase. In particular, a multi-core cable having a plurality of power conductors configured for transmitting a plurality of electrical currents, in particular each having a different electrical phase, would be considered as a plurality of power cables.

[0016] According to embodiments, the number of power cables can be more than three, preferably a multiple of three.

[0017] For example, a cable for transmission of medium voltage power (MV high- Cables (20-35kV) may have at least 55mm² 2 Preferably at least 60mm 2 More preferably at least 65mm 2 and / or 70mm 2 The left and right cross sections, and / or may have a cross section not exceeding 75mm. 2 Particularly preferred is not greater than 80mm 2 The cross-section.

[0018] Cables made of aluminum for transmitting higher and medium voltage power (MV high - Cables (20-35kV) may have at least 85mm² 2 Preferably at least 90mm 2 and / or 95mm 2 The left and right cross sections, and / or may have a cross section not exceeding 110 mm. 2 Specifically, not exceeding 100mm 2 Preferably, the diameter is not greater than 95mm. 2 The cross-section.

[0019] Copper cables used for transmitting low to medium voltage power (MV low - Cables (approximately 10kV) may have at least 150mm² 2 Specifically, at least 170mm 2 Preferably at least 180mm 2 and / or 185mm 2 The left and right cross sections, and / or may have a cross section not exceeding 230 mm. 2 Preferably, it is no more than 210mm 2 More preferably, it is no more than 190mm 2 The cross-section.

[0020] Cables made of aluminum for transmitting low to medium voltage power (MV low - Cables (approximately 10kV) may have at least 200mm². 2 Specifically, at least 220mm 2 Preferably at least 230mm 2 and / or 240mm 2 The left and right cross sections, and / or may have a cross section not exceeding 280 mm. 2 Preferably, it should not exceed 260mm. 2 More preferably, it is no more than 250mm 2 The cross-section.

[0021] According to additional or alternative embodiments, electrical energy as generated by the generator having a voltage of 400 V to 1000 V is guided through the tower to the electrical power components, switches and / or transformers for conversion to medium voltage (10-35 KV) by said components positioned at a lower position than the nacelle. In this case, at least 9 cables, in particular at least 12 cables, preferably 15 cables and / or not more than 21 cables, in particular not more than 18 cables, preferably 15 cables are used for connecting the generator and / or the power device of the generator to the transformer, which is positioned in the tower below the generator or on the ground.

[0022] For example, the cables (in particular made of copper) for such low-voltage power transmission can have a cross-section of at least 200 mm 2 , preferably at least 220 mm 2 , further preferably at least 240 mm 2 and / or 270 mm 2 around, and / or can have a cross-section of not more than 330 mm 2 , preferably not more than 310 mm 2 , further preferably not more than 300 mm 2 .

[0023] With regard to one or both of the previously mentioned embodiments, at least one or more cables for transmitting communication signals and / or supporting and / or auxiliary energy can further be provided with the mentioned power cables.

[0024] In particular, the nacelle can be rotatable on the top of the tower about a substantially vertical axis (yaw axis). For this purpose, a yaw system having at least one yaw drive is effectively provided between the nacelle and the top of the tower. With the aid of the yaw system, wind tracking of the nacelle is achieved. The nacelle can be rotated such that the rotor of the wind turbine faces the wind perpendicularly to the ground, which maximizes the energy generation of the wind turbine. This means that the nacelle can be rotated about the yaw axis depending on the current wind direction. Thus, the rotation of the nacelle introduces a twist into the power cables, wherein the twist causes a deviation (shortening) of the length of the power cables.

[0025] Thus, during operation including the rotation of the nacelle about the yaw axis, the power cables can experience a twist, which is acceptable at least within certain limits. In particular, the maximum twist angle can be at least + / - 720° (two complete rotations), preferably at least + / - 900° (three complete rotations), or at least + / - 1440° (four rotations). Thus, the cables extending from the nacelle to the electrical connection arrangement have to be arranged, guided and constructed to tolerate such a twist range without suffering from unwanted wear, structural damage and / or any further functional disadvantages caused by the twist.

[0026] Furthermore, the tower comprises at least one radial cable guiding device for receiving the power cable and a cable support arrangement for supporting the power cable in a beneficial manner.

[0027] The radial cable guiding device is directly or indirectly supported by and mounted to the tower and is configured such that a space for movement of the power cable at least in a radial direction of the tower is limited, while displacement of the power cable in an axial direction of the tower is allowed. Thus, the radial cable guiding device prevents the power cable from freely hanging and / or swinging within the tower, but provides displacement flexibility for the power cable in the axial direction and / or in the longitudinal cable direction. According to an embodiment, the radial cable guiding device can comprise a ring which encloses the power cable, wherein the ring is directly or indirectly attached to the tower. Thus, the movement of the power cable in the radial direction is thereby limited by the inner diameter of the ring.

[0028] In particular, the effective inner diameter of the radial cable guiding device is at least 100% larger, in particular at least 60% larger, preferably at least 30% larger than the maximum outer diameter of the power cable, in particular of the bundle of power cables formed by a plurality of power cables. For example, the effective inner diameter can have a size of at least 150 mm, preferably at least 170 mm, further preferably at least 190 mm and / or around 200 mm, and / or can have a cross section of not more than 250 mm, preferably not more than 230 mm, further preferably not more than 210 mm.

[0029] The cable support arrangement is directly or indirectly mounted to the tower at a lower level than the radial cable guiding device. In particular, the vertical cable support arrangement comprises cable support fixation means for securely mounting at least a portion of the power cable, in particular a portion of the support portion of the power cable, to the cable support arrangement.

[0030] Furthermore, the tower comprises torsion-resistant fixation means configured for reducing and / or preventing a propagation of a cable twist of the cable of the hanging portion into the power cable of the loop portion.

[0031] In fact, the cable support arrangement and the torsion-resistant fixation means hold the power cable at least partially and are arranged and configured such that the power cable forms and comprises a hanging portion having a cable axis, a cable loop portion having a horizontal cable loop, and a support portion which is at least partially supported by the cable support arrangement.

[0032] The term "horizontal cable loop" denotes a curved portion of the power cable, in particular of the cable loop portion, wherein the cable comprises a curved section which extends at least partially in a horizontal plane.

[0033] Additionally or in the alternative, the cable support arrangement and the anti- torsion fixation means at least partly hold the power cables, and are arranged and configured such that the power cables of the cable loop portion are at least partly positioned in a form similar to a spiral (when seen in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tower).

[0034] In particular, the anti-torsion fixation means are not necessarily embodied as a specific physical device, but can also be represented functionally by other parts, for example by the cable support arrangement, and in particular by the specific position of the cable support fixation means of the cable support arrangement holding the power cables in a specific way, and / or wherein the cables have a specific length.

[0035] The suspension portion essentially extends from the nacelle or from a nacelle cable connection point at a lower portion of the nacelle to the cable loop portion of the power cables. The power cables of the suspension portion are suspended in an essentially straight and parallel manner, mainly directed in the axial and / or longitudinal direction of the tower, and thereby define a cable axis. However, if the nacelle is rotated around the yaw axis, the power cables of the suspension portion can be subjected to torsion. A plurality of power cables can form a cable bundle.

[0036] According to embodiments, the suspension portion has a length in vertical direction of at least 5 m, in particular at least 7 m, preferably at least 8 m and / or around 9 m and / or not more than 50 m, in particular not more than 20 m, preferably not more than 15 m, more preferably not more than 12 m.

[0037] In particular, the power cables are configured to withstand a torsion of at least 0.18 full rotations per meter cable length (n / m), in particular at least 0.2 n / m, preferably at least 0.25 n / m and / or around 0.28 n / m and / or not more than 0.4 n / m, in particular not more than 0.35 n / m, preferably not more than 0.3 n / m. For example, the power cables of a suspension portion having a length of around 9 m are configured to accept a torsion of 2.5 rotations in each rotational direction.

[0038] According to embodiments, the cable loop portion comprises a vertical cable loop having a first curvature in radial direction and a horizontal cable loop having a second curvature in circumferential direction.

[0039] By the first curvature in radial direction, the power cables from the suspension portion are at least partly curved towards a radially outer region of the tower. Thus, the first curvature at least partly extends in a vertical plane.

[0040] By the second bend in the circumferential direction, the power cable from the first bend having a component in the radial direction is at least partially bent to obtain an orientation component in the circumferential direction, for example in the direction of the tower wall of the tower. The second bend thus has a bending component lying in a horizontal plane and thereby forms a horizontal cable loop.

[0041] In particular, the cable loop portion has at least one bending radius while electrically connecting the suspension portion of the power cable to the support portion of the power cable. The cable loop portion can freely hang between the suspension portion and the cable support arrangement without being supported by any structure or device, in particular, but by the suspension portion and the support portion. For example, one end portion of the cable loop portion is connected to, supported by and merged with the suspension portion of the power cable. The other end portion of the cable loop portion is merged with the support portion of the power cable and is thereby supported by the support portion of the power cable and indirectly by the cable support arrangement.

[0042] According to an optional embodiment, the effective cable length of the cable loop portion is at least 0.5 m, in particular at least 1 m, preferably at least 1.5 m and / or around 2 m and / or not more than 5 m, in particular not more than 4 m, preferably not more than 3 m.

[0043] It will be mentioned that the determination of the length of the suspension portion relative to the determined effective length of the cable loop portion can be achieved by an iterative process, in particular by starting with certain initial values, performing a functional evaluation of the values and optimizing the values while using those optimized values as further starting values.

[0044] Preferably, the power cable forming the suspension portion, the cable loop portion and the support portion is made of the same cable without structural crossings, connections or other irregularities between the single power cables.

[0045] The anti-twist means can be implemented such that the cable support arrangement comprises cable support fixation means for firmly mounting at least a portion of the support portion to the cable support arrangement. The cable support fixation means are configured and positioned such that the fixation effect of the power cable of the cable support arrangement, in particular with respect to cable twisting or cable rotation, extends into and affects the entire cable loop portion. By this rotational fixation of the support portion and the end portion of the adjacent cable loop portion adjacent to the support portion, the propagation of the cable twisting from the suspension portion into the cable loop portion is prevented, at least substantially. Thus, the twisting introduced into the suspension portion by the rotation of the nacelle, in particular in the range as mentioned before, is substantially only realized in the suspension portion and has no negative effect on the bending loop portion.

[0046] The present embodiments allow for the first time the use of a power cable for implementing the power connection between the power components in the nacelle and the electrical connection arrangement, wherein an undesired wear of the cable caused by relative friction is avoided without using a complex support structure as presented in previous wind turbines.

[0047] In particular, it is achieved that an exact functional separation performed by the power cable is obtained: First, the twisting of the power cable is substantially exclusively absorbed by the suspension portion. Second, a deviation of the length of the power cable is substantially exclusively compensated by the cable loop portion.

[0048] For example, the effective length of the cable loop portion is determined such that a deviation of the length of at least 1 cm, in particular at least 5 cm, preferably at least 10 cm, more preferably at least 15 cm (caused by the maximum allowable cable twisting) can be particularly compensated by the cable portion without falling below an acceptable minimum bending radius.

[0049] The separation of the twisting of the suspension portion from the cable loop portion effectively and efficiently prevents the power cables of the cable loop portion from contacting each other and causing friction phenomena between each other. Said friction has an even worse impact if the cables of the cable loop portion would be pressed together by twisting when compensating for the deviation of the length of the cables.

[0050] These specific embodiments are the result of long-term experiments and calculations and thus of a significant investment.

[0051] According to a specific form, the propagation of the cable twisting from the suspension portion into the cable loop portion is substantially avoided by positioning the cable support arrangement at the level of the tower and by determining the length of the power cable such that the cable loop portion is formed at least on the same height level as the support portion and / or such that the cable loop portion is not arranged on a level which is as low as the support portion and / or lower than the cable support arrangement.

[0052] In an alternative or in addition, the anti-twist fixation means at least partially comprise cable support fixation means for firmly mounting at least a portion of the support portion to the cable support arrangement and further comprise a suspension portion having a determined length such that a cable loop portion with a vertical cable loop and a horizontal cable loop is formed. In this case, the anti-twist fixation means are not a specific device but are represented functionally by the determined position of the cable support fixation means, by the stiffness, flexibility and length of the power cable.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively, the anti-twist fixation means is embodied as and / or comprises an anti-twist fixation device. The anti-twist fixation device is a physical device, in particular and for example a physical device other than the cable support fixation means. The anti-twist fixation device arranges the power cable to the tower, directly or indirectly, such that a rotation of the cable is suppressed, while a displacement of the power cable in the axial direction of the tower is allowed. Thus, the anti-twist device rotationally and in the radial direction fixes the power cable to the tower, but provides a displacement flexibility in the axial direction and / or in the longitudinal cable direction. Thus, according to this embodiment, the wording "the anti-twist fixation means is configured for reducing and / or preventing a propagation of a cable twist of the cable of the suspension section into the power cable of the loop section" can be replaced by the wording "the anti-twist fixation device is configured for arranging the cable to the tower such that a rotation of the cable around the cable axis is suppressed, while the cable of at least the suspension section and at least the cable loop section is movable in the axial direction".

[0054] In particular, the anti-twist fixation device is positioned at the transition and / or interface between the suspension section and the cable loop section, thus at the end of the suspension section and the beginning of the cable loop section (when coming from the top of the wind turbine). Thereby, any twist of the power cable of the suspension section introduced by the rotation of the nacelle is stopped at the anti-twist fixation device and cannot further propagate into the cable loop section.

[0055] According to embodiments, further embodiments are disclosed, wherein the cable support fixation means is arranged such and the power cable has a length such that: the minimum bending radius of the bending radius is at least 0.2 m, in particular at least 0.3 m, preferably 0.4 m, and / or wherein the maximum bending radius is not larger than 1.1 m, in particular not larger than 0.9 m, preferably not larger than 0.8 m.

[0056] Thus, the cable loop section is dimensioned such that the actual bending radius is sufficiently large compared to the minimum bending radius, if there is no twist introduced into the power cable. This over-dimensioning of the actual bending radius with respect to the minimum bending radius is chosen such that a deviation of the effective length of the suspension section caused by a maximum cable twist can be compensated by the cable loop section, without the actual bending radius falling below the minimum bending radius.

[0057] According to a further embodiment, the anti-torsion fixation device comprises a cable fixation portion having fixation means for securely mounting a cable to the cable fixation portion, a mounting portion for directly or indirectly mounting the anti-torsion fixation device to the tower, in particular to the central support structure of the tower, and an intermediate portion configured for holding the cable fixation portion to the mounting portion such that a rotation and / or displacement of the cable fixation portion relative to the mounting portion in radial direction is prevented and a displacement in axial direction and / or along the cable axis is enabled.

[0058] In particular, the cable fixation portion can comprise a cable clamp and a base structure to which the cable clamp can be securely fixed, e.g. by screws. Optionally, the base structure can be attached to the mounting portion via the intermediate portion (as described), while the intermediate portion is securely connected to the mounting portion. The intermediate portion and the base structure can be embodied as a rail guiding system, wherein the intermediate portion can comprise certain holders which at least partially enclose the base structure such that a rotation and / or displacement of the base structure relative to the intermediate portion and / or the mounting portion in radial direction is prevented and a displacement in axial direction and / or along the cable axis is enabled.

[0059] Further, the intermediate portion can comprise a roller system and / or a linear roller bearing which is effectively arranged between the mounting portion and the cable fixation portion such that a translational movement of the cable fixation portion relative to the mounting portion can be performed with reduced friction and wear relative to embodiments without said measures.

[0060] Additionally or in the alternative, means can be provided for providing a reduced friction coefficient between the frictional members, in particular between the cable fixation portion and the mounting portion. The reduction of the friction coefficient is to be understood with respect to the friction coefficient of steel over steel tribology. In particular, the means for reducing friction do not comprise providing grease or a liquid or paste-like lubricant between the members. For example, the means are chosen such that the static friction coefficient between the frictional parts (dry and clean) is less than 0.7, in particular less than 0.3, preferably less than 0.1.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the cable support fixation means of the cable support arrangement are precisely positioned such that the orientation of the power cable in a horizontal plane of the cable loop portion directly adjacent to the cable support fixation means does not point towards the cable axis and / or such that a virtual straight line extending in the horizontal plane and defined by the orientation of the power cable of the cable loop portion directly adjacent to the cable support fixation means has a minimum distance to the cable axis of at least 0.1, in particular at least 0.15, preferably at least 0.2 of the respective tower radius. In particular, by providing the cable support fixation means in a specific way, the formation of the horizontal cable loop is supported in its form as maintained.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the tower comprises a cable loop platform having a platform surface, wherein the cable loop platform at least partially serves as a cable support arrangement. In particular, embodiments as cable loop platforms have two synergistic effects: the power cables are supported and installed in a preferred manner, while professionals can use the platform for installing the cables.

[0063] Furthermore, the cable loop platform can only partially cover the cross section of the tower, in particular the cable loop platform covers not more than 70%, in particular not more than 50%, preferably not more than 40%, more preferably not more than 30% of the size of the respective cross sectional area of the tower.

[0064] According to an alternative embodiment, the cable loop platform can be a complete platform, in particular with the necessary openings for cables, ladders and / or elevators.

[0065] According to another embodiment, the tower of a wind turbine comprises a central support structure. The structure is arranged in the tower and extends along the axial direction of the tower, wherein radial cable guiding devices and / or anti-torsion fixation devices are mounted to the central support structure.

[0066] Furthermore, a plurality of radial cable guiding devices is provided, wherein the radial cable guiding devices are mounted to the central support structure along the axial direction. Thereby, an improved guiding of the suspended part of the power cable is achieved.

[0067] According to an embodiment, at least two, preferably most, more preferably all of the radial cable guiding devices are mounted to the central support structure such that the distance between the radial cable guiding devices is at least equal to 3m, in particular at least equal to 4m, preferably at least equal to 4.5m, and / or not more than 7m, in particular 6m, preferably 5.5m.

[0068] Furthermore, the electrical connection arrangement positioned in the tower or on the base of the tower comprises a power cable junction point. The power cable junction point connects the lower end of the power cable with a subsequent power conducting device. In particular, if the electrical connection arrangement is positioned in the tower, the power cable connects the nacelle to the electrical connection arrangement, wherein the subsequent electrical connection to the subsequent electrical device is achieved by using the subsequent power conducting device embodied as an aluminum conductor.

[0069] According to another aspect, a wind turbine having a tower according to one or more of the previously described embodiments is disclosed, wherein a nacelle having a rotor is rotatably mounted on a top portion of the tower.

[0070] Technical solution 1. A tower for a wind turbine, the tower comprising:

[0071] - a top end for rotatably bearing a nacelle of the wind turbine about a yaw axis, a bearing end for bearing the wind turbine on a bearing system on the ground, the nacelle having an electrical power member, in particular a generator,

[0072] - the tower further comprising at least two, preferably three power cables for electrically connecting the electrical power member with an electrical connection arrangement mounted to the tower at a level lower than the top end or positioned on the ground,

[0073] - at least one radial cable guide mounted to the tower for attaching the power cables to the tower by limiting the space for movement of the power cables at least in a radial direction of the tower while allowing displacement of the cables in an axial direction of the tower,

[0074] - a cable bearing arrangement mounted to the tower at a level lower than the radial cable guide for bearing at least a portion of the cables, and

[0075] - anti-twist fixation means configured for reducing and / or preventing a propagation of a cable twist of the cables of the suspension portion into the power cables of the loop portion,

[0076] - wherein the cable bearing arrangement and the anti-twist fixation means at least partially hold the power cables and are arranged and configured such that the power cables comprise a suspension portion having a cable axis, a cable loop portion having a horizontal cable loop, and a bearing portion at least partially held by the cable bearing arrangement.

[0077] Solution 2. Tower according to solution 1, characterized in that the cable loop portion comprises a first bend forming a vertical cable loop extending at least partially in a vertical plane and a second bend forming a horizontal cable loop extending at least partially in a horizontal plane.

[0078] Solution 3. Tower according to solution 1 or solution 2, characterized in that the cable bearing arrangement is positioned at a tower level and the power cables have a length such that the cable loop portion extends at least on the same height level as the bearing portion and / or such that the cable loop portion is not arranged at a level lower than the bearing portion and / or lower than the cable bearing arrangement.

[0079] Solution 4. Tower according to one of the preceding solutions, characterized in that,

[0080] - the anti-twist fixation means at least partially comprise a cable support fixation for securely mounting at least parts of the support section to the cable support arrangement and further comprise the suspension section having a determined length such that the cable loop section with the vertical cable loop and the horizontal cable loop is formed, and / or

[0081] - the anti-twist fixation means are embodied as at least one anti-twist fixation device configured for arranging the cable arrangement to the tower such that a rotation of the cable around the cable axis is inhibited while the cable at least partially for the suspension section and at least partially for the cable loop section is executable in the axial direction and in particular such that the cable loop section with the vertical cable loop and the horizontal cable loop is formed.

[0082] Technical solution 5. Tower according to one of the preceding technical solutions, characterized in that the cable support fixation is arranged such and the power cables have a length such that: the minimum bending radius of the bending radius is at least 0.2 m, in particular at least 0.3 m, preferably 0.4 m, in particular wherein at least one, preferably all of the power cables have a cross section of at least 80 mm 2 , preferably at least 85 mm 2 , further preferably at least 90 mm 2 and / or 95 mm 2 or can have a cross section of not more than 110 mm 2 , preferably not more than 105 mm 2 , further preferably not more than 100 mm 2 or in particular wherein at least one, preferably all of the power cables have a cross section of at least 55 mm 2 , preferably at least 60 mm 2 , further preferably at least 65 mm 2 and / or 70 mm 2 or can have a cross section of not more than 85 mm 2 , preferably not more than 80 mm 2 , further preferably not more than 75 mm 2 .

[0083] Technical solution 6. Tower according to technical solution 5, characterized in that the cable loop section is dimensioned such that a deviation of the effective length of the suspension section caused by a twist of the cable can be compensated by the cable loop section without falling below the minimum bending radius.

[0084] Technical solution 7. The tower according to one of the preceding technical solutions, characterized in that the cable support fixation means are arranged such that:

[0085] The orientation of the power cable in the horizontal plane directly adjacent to the cable loop portion of the cable support fixation means does not point towards the cable axis, and / or a virtual straight line extending in the horizontal plane defined by the orientation of the cable directly adjacent to the cable loop portion of the cable support fixation means has a minimum distance to the cable axis of at least 0.1, in particular at least 0.15, preferably at least 0.2, of the respective tower radius.

[0086] Technical solution 8. The tower according to one of the preceding technical solutions, characterized in that the cable support arrangement is at least partially formed by a cable loop platform having a platform surface supporting the cable.

[0087] Technical solution 9. The tower according to technical solution 8, characterized in that the cable loop platform covers no more than 70%, in particular no more than 50%, preferably no more than 40%, of the size of the respective cross-sectional area of the tower.

[0088] Technical solution 10. The tower according to one of the preceding technical solutions, characterized in that a central support structure is arranged in the tower and extends along the axial direction, wherein the radial cable guide devices are mounted to the central support structure.

[0089] Technical solution 11. The tower according to technical solution 10, characterized in that a plurality of radial cable guide devices is mounted to the central support structure along the axial direction.

[0090] Technical solution 12. The tower according to technical solution 11, characterized in that at least two, preferably a majority of the radial cable guide devices are mounted to the central support structure such that the distance between the radial cable guide devices is at least equal to 3 m, in particular at least equal to 4 m, preferably at least equal to 4.5 m, and / or no more than 7 m, in particular 6 m, preferably 5.5 m.

[0091] Technical solution 13. The tower according to one of the preceding technical solutions 4 to 12, characterized in that the anti-twist fixation device comprises:

[0092] a cable fixation portion having fixation means for securely mounting the cable to the cable fixation portion,

[0093] a mounting portion for mounting the anti-twist fixation device to the central support structure, and

[0094] - an intermediate portion configured for holding the cable fixation portion to the mounting portion such that rotation and / or displacement of the cable fixation portion relative to the mounting portion in a radial direction is prevented and displacement in an axial direction and / or along the cable axis is enabled.

[0095] Technical solution 14. The tower according to the technical solution 13, characterized in that the intermediate portion comprises means for at least partially enabling rolling contact between the cable fixation portion and the mounting portion and / or means for providing a reduced coefficient of friction between the steel on steel tribological combination steel coefficient of friction of the frictional members.

[0096] Technical solution 15. A wind turbine comprising a nacelle, a rotor with at least one rotor blade, wherein the rotor is rotatably supported by the nacelle, and a tower according to one of the preceding technical solutions, wherein the nacelle is rotatably mounted on the top end around a yaw axis of the wind turbine and has an electrical power member, in particular a generator.

[0097] The embodiments as described will represent various aspects of the present disclosure, wherein explicitly included are additional combinations of the described embodiments, as long as such combinations are technically sound, e.g. a combination of a torsionally resistant device and at least a torsionally resistant means for improving the performance of the cable loop portion is a suitable embodiment.

[0098] Reference will be made to the following description and accompanying drawings, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure can be practiced without departing from the scope of the disclosure, which is set forth in the appended claims, that the present disclosure encompasses advantages that will become apparent in light of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, and that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described hereinafter but can be practiced with modification and alteration within the scope of the appended claims. Figures 3 to 6 These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be further supported and described in connection with the following description and accompanying drawings, in particular, in the paragraphs referring to BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0099] A complete and enabling disclosure, including the best mode thereof, directed to others skilled in the art, is set forth in the specification, which is to be construed in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0100] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure;

[0101] Figure 2a simplified internal view showing one embodiment of a nacelle of a wind turbine having a gearbox system according to the present disclosure;

[0102] Figure 3 shows a partial schematic cross-sectional view through a tower of a wind turbine according to a first embodiment as shown in Figure 1

[0103] Figure 4 shows a partial schematic view in a tower of a wind turbine according to the first embodiment of Figure 3

[0104] shows a cross-sectional view of a torsion resistant device in relation to the first embodiment of Figure 5 Figure 3

[0105] Figure 6 shows a partial schematic view in a tower of a wind turbine according to a second embodiment.

[0106] The individual features depicted in the drawings are shown in relation to each other and are therefore not necessarily drawn to scale. Similar or identical elements in the drawings are denoted with the same reference numerals, even if shown in different embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0107] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present disclosure and is not meant as a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0108] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary wind turbine 10. In the exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine 10 is a horizontal axis wind turbine. Alternatively, the wind turbine 10 can be a vertical axis wind turbine. In the exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine 10 includes a tower 100 extending from a support system 14 on the ground 12, a nacelle 16 mounted on the tower 100, 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 the exemplary embodiment, the rotor 18 has three rotor blades 22. In alternative embodiments, the rotor 18 includes more or less than three rotor blades 22. In the exemplary embodiment, the tower 100 is made of tubular steel to define a cavity (not shown in FIG. 1) between the support system 14 and the nacelle 16. In alternative embodiments, the tower 100 is any suitable type of tower having any suitable height. According to alternative or additional embodiments, the tower can be a hybrid tower including portions made of concrete and tubular steel portions. Also, the tower can be a partial or full lattice tower. Figure 1

[0109] ​​​The rotor blades 22 are spaced about the hub 20 to facilitate rotation of the rotor 18 to enable kinetic energy to be converted from the wind into usable mechanical energy and subsequently into electrical energy. The rotor blades 22 are fitted to the hub 20 by coupling blade root portions 24 to the hub 20 at a plurality of load transfer regions 26. The load transfer regions 26 can have hub load transfer regions and blade load transfer regions (both of which are not shown in Figure 1 The loads induced to the rotor blades 22 are transferred to the hub 20 via the load transfer regions 26.

[0110] In one embodiment, the rotor blades 22 have a length ranging from about 15 meters (m) to about 91 m. Alternatively, the rotor blades 22 can have any suitable length that enables the wind turbine 10 to function as described herein. For example, other non-limiting examples of blade lengths include a length of 20 m or less, 37 m, 48.7 m, 50.2 m, 52.2 m, or greater than 91 m. As the wind impinges on the rotor blades 22 from the wind direction 28, the rotor 18 rotates about a rotor axis 30. As the rotor blades 22 rotate and are subjected to centrifugal forces, the rotor blades 22 are also subjected to a plurality of forces and moments. As such, the rotor blades 22 can be deflected and / or rotated from a neutral or non-deflected position to a deflected position.

[0111] Furthermore, a pitch angle of the rotor blades 22 (i.e., an angle that determines a viewing angle of the rotor blades 22 relative to the wind direction) can be changed by a pitch system 32 to control the loads and power generated by the wind turbine 10 by adjusting an angular position of at least one rotor blade 22 relative to the wind vector. A pitch axis 34 of the rotor blades 22 is shown. During operation of the wind turbine 10, the pitch system 32 can change the pitch angle of the rotor blades 22 such that the rotor blades 22 are moved to a feathered position such that the viewing angle of the at least one rotor blade 22 relative to the wind vector provides a minimum surface area of the rotor blades 22 oriented toward the wind vector, which facilitates a reduction in rotational speed and / or facilitates stalling of the rotor 18.

[0112] In an exemplary embodiment, the blade pitch of each rotor blade 22 is individually controlled by a wind turbine controller 36 or by a pitch control system 80. Alternatively, the blade pitch for all of the rotor blades 22 can be simultaneously controlled by the control system.

[0113] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, a yaw direction of the nacelle 16 can be rotated about a yaw axis 38 to position the rotor blades 22 relative to the wind direction 28 as the wind direction 28 changes.

[0114] In example embodiments, the wind turbine controller 36 is shown as being centralized within the nacelle 16, however, the wind turbine controller 36 can be a distributed system 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. In addition, many of the other components described herein include a processor. As used herein, the term "processor" is not limited to integrated circuits referred to in the art as computers, but broadly includes a controller, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an 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 can also include memory, input ports, and / or output ports.

[0115] Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of portions of the wind turbine 10. In example embodiments, the wind turbine 10 includes a nacelle 16 and a rotor 18 rotatably coupled to the nacelle 16. More specifically, a hub 20 of the rotor 18 is rotatably coupled to a generator 42 positioned within the nacelle 16 by way of a main shaft 44, a gearbox 46, a high speed shaft 48, and a coupling 50. In example embodiments, the main shaft 44 is at least partially disposed coaxially with a 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 main shaft 44 into a relatively fast rotational movement of the high speed shaft 48. The high speed shaft 48 is connected to the generator 42 for generating electrical energy with the aid of the coupling 50. In addition, a transformer 90 and / or suitable electronics, switches, and / or inverters are arranged in the nacelle 16 in order to convert the electrical energy generated by the generator 42 having a voltage between 400 V and 1000 V into electrical energy having medium voltage (10-35 KV). The electrical energy is conducted from the nacelle 16 into the tower 100 via a power cable 160.

[0116] The generator 42, gearbox 46 in the transformer 90 can be supported by a main support structure frame of the nacelle 16, which is optionally embodied as a main frame 52. The gearbox 46 can include a gearbox housing connected to the main frame 52 by one or more torque arms 103. In example embodiments, the nacelle 16 also includes a main forward support bearing 60 and a main rearward support bearing 62. In addition, the generator 42 can be mounted to the main frame 52 by decoupling support means 54, in particular, in order to prevent vibrations of the generator 42 from being introduced into the main frame 52 and thereby causing a source of noise emission.

[0117] Preferably, the main frame 52 is configured to carry the weight of the components of the rotor 18 and the nacelle 16 as well as all loads caused by wind loads and rotational loads, and, in addition, to introduce these loads into the tower 100 of the wind turbine 10. The rotor shaft 44, the generator 42, the gearbox 46, the high speed shaft 48, the coupling 50, and any associated fastening, support, and / or fixation means, including but not limited to the support 52 as well as the front and rear support bearings 60 and 62, are sometimes referred to as the drive train 64.

[0118] The nacelle 16 can also include a yaw drive mechanism 56, which can be used to rotate the nacelle 16, and thereby also the rotor 18, about the yaw axis 38 to control the angle of view of the rotor blades 22 relative to the wind direction 28.

[0119] To properly position the nacelle 16 relative to the wind direction 28, the nacelle 16 can also include at least one weather mast 58, which can include a wind vane and an anemometer (both not shown in Figure 2 ). The mast 58 provides information to the wind turbine controller 36, which can include the wind direction 28 and / or the wind speed.

[0120] In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch system 32 is arranged at least partially 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 respective rotor blade 22 (shown in Figure 1 ) for adjusting the pitch angle of the rotor blade 22 along the pitch axis 34. Only one of the three pitch drive systems 68 is shown in Figure 2 .

[0121] In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch assembly 66 includes at least one pitch bearing 72 coupled to the hub 20 and a respective rotor blade 22 (shown in Figure 1 ) for rotating the respective rotor blade 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 imparts 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. The 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.

[0122] The pitch drive system 68 is coupled to the wind turbine controller 36 for adjusting the pitch angle of the rotor blades 22 upon receipt of 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 can include any suitable structure, configuration, arrangement, and / or member such as, but not limited to, a hydraulic cylinder, a spring, and / or a servo mechanism. In certain embodiments, the pitch drive motor 74 is driven by energy extracted from the rotational inertia of the hub 20 and / or a stored energy source (not shown) that supplies energy to the components of the wind turbine 10.

[0123] The pitch assembly 66 also includes one or more pitch control systems 80 for controlling the pitch drive system 68 according to control signals from the wind turbine controller 36 in the event of a particular priority situation and / or during overspeeding of the rotor 18. In an exemplary embodiment, the pitch assembly 66 includes at least one pitch control system 80 communicatively coupled to a respective pitch drive system 68 for controlling the pitch drive system 68 independent 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.

[0124] In one embodiment, particularly when the rotor 18 is operating at rotor overspeed, the pitch control system 80 overrides the wind turbine controller 36 such that the wind turbine controller 36 no longer controls the pitch control system 80 and the pitch drive system 68. Accordingly, the pitch control system 80 is able to cause the pitch drive system 68 to move the rotor blades 22 to a feathered position for reducing the rotational speed of the rotor 18.

[0125] According to embodiments, a power generator 84, for example including a battery, a capacitor designated by the letter C, or a generator driven by the rotation of the hub 20, is arranged at or within the hub 20 and coupled to the sensor 70, the pitch control system 80, and the pitch drive system 68 to provide a power source to these components. In an exemplary embodiment, the power generator 84 provides a continuous power source to the pitch assembly 66 during operation of the wind turbine 10. In an alternative embodiment, the power generator 84 provides power to the pitch assembly 66 only during an electrical power loss event of the wind turbine 10. The electrical power loss event can include a grid loss or sag, a failure of the electrical system of the wind turbine 10, and / or a failure of the wind turbine controller 36. During the electrical power loss event, the power generator 84 operates to provide electrical power to the pitch assembly 66 such that the pitch assembly 66 can operate during the electrical power loss event.

[0126] In the exemplary embodiment, the pitch drive system 68, the sensor 70, the pitch control system 80, the cable and the power generator 84 are each positioned in a cavity 86 which is defined by an inner surface 88 of the hub 20. In an alternative embodiment, the components are positioned relative to an outer surface of the hub 20 and can be directly or indirectly coupled to the outer surface.

[0127] Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a tower 100 of the wind turbine 10 is shown. Also, Figure 4 and Figure 5 Certain aspects of the first embodiment of the tower 100 are shown. The tower 100 has a top end 102 which is suitable for supporting the nacelle 16. Electrical energy generated by the generator 42 and converted by the transformer 90 is conducted from the nacelle 16 in the tower 100 via a power cable 160, wherein a nacelle connection portion 188 of the power cable 160 is securely arranged in the nacelle 16, for example with the help of the nacelle cable fixation means 92.

[0128] The power cable 160 is guided towards the yaw axis 38 and / or to a cable axis 162 which is mainly aligned with a longitudinal axis of the tower 100. At this central position, the power cable 160 is particularly guided into the tower 100 along an axial direction 112 of the tower 100. From this central position, the power cable 160 is freely suspended into the tower 100 along the axial direction and is preferably supported by a support arrangement in the nacelle 16.

[0129] The power cable 160 suspended in the tower 100 can be understood as a suspended portion 164 of the power cable 160. In particular, a plurality of radial cable guide means 120 with rings 122 or slightly rounded holding means are provided in the center of the tower 100 such that the cable axis 162 is located within the rings 122. Thus, the power cable 160 of the suspended portion 164 is wrapped by the cable guide means 120 such that a space for movement of the power cable 160 is limited along a radial direction 110 of the tower 100, whereas a displacement of the power cable 160 along an axial direction 112 of the tower 100 is possible.

[0130] At a lower end of the suspended portion 164, the power cable 160 merges into a cable loop portion 166, which is then followed by a support portion 168 of the power cable 160. Thus, the power cable 160 in the tower 100 can be understood as having the suspended portion 164, the cable loop portion 166 and the support portion 168.

[0131] The support portion 168 is supported by a cable support arrangement 150 which, according to the present embodiment, is embodied as a partial support platform 152 which is arranged at least partially horizontally in the tower 100.

[0132] According to all embodiments, the power cable 160 of the cable loop portion 166 can have at least a vertical cable loop 170 with a first bend 172 and a horizontal cable loop 180 with a second bend 182. The first bend 172 has a bending component lying in a vertical plane 174 such that the power cable 160 is guided from a central region of the tower 100 at least partially in a radial direction 110 towards the tower wall 108, as depicted in Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 6 depicted in Fig. 2. In addition, the horizontal cable loop 180 with the bend 182 causes an orientation of the power cable 160 of the cable loop portion 166 towards the circumferential direction towards the cable support fixture 154 of the cable support arrangement 150.

[0133] The configuration as described causes the power cable 160 of the cable loop portion 166 to be positioned at least partially in a form similar to a spiral (when seen in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tower 100).

[0134] The power cable 160 is firmly attached to the cable support arrangement 150 with the help of the cable support fixture 154. The fixation of the power cable 160 in the radially outer region of the tower 100 is implemented such that a virtual line 186 starting at the cable support fixture 154 adjacent to the cable loop portion 166 does not lead through the cable axis 162 or the tower axis, nor through the central region of the tower 100. In particular, the virtual straight line 186 extending in a horizontal plane 184 defined by the orientation of the cable 160 of the cable loop portion 166 directly adjacent to the cable support fixture 154 has a minimum distance to the cable axis 162 of at least 0.1, in particular at least 0.15, preferably at least 0.2 of the respective tower radius 106.

[0135] The combination of the vertical cable loop 170 and the horizontal cable loop 180 leads to a beneficial formation of the cable loop portion 166 which suppresses the propagation of distortions of the suspension portion 164 into the cable loop portion 166. Figure 6 The example shown in Fig. 2 provides a solution in which the anti-twist fixture is at least partially represented functionally by the specific fixation of the power cable 160 on the cable support arrangement 150 and by the determination of the specific length of the power cable 160 such that the cable loop portion 166 with the vertical cable loop 170 and the horizontal cable loop 180 is realized. Possibly, the transition between the suspension portion 164 and the cable loop portion 166 can be indicated by providing a radial cable guide 120 at this transition, as shown in Fig. 3. Figure 6

[0136] However, as shown in Figs. 4 and 5, Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and​Figure 5 The embodiment shown includes implementing the anti-torsion fixing device as an anti-torsion fixing device 130. Therefore, the suspension portion 164 and the cable loop portion 166 can be distinguished from each other by the anti-torsion fixing device 130 placed between the two portions. However, the specific arrangement of the cable loop portion 166 with vertical cable loops 170 and horizontal cable loops 180 as described above remains an applicable option.

[0137] The anti-torsion fixing device 130 has the following effect: any twisting introduced into the cable 160 by the rotation of the nacelle 16 is held in the suspension portion 164 and cannot propagate beyond the anti-torsion device 130 into the cable loop portion 166. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The anti-torsion device 130 indicated in the middle will be based on the detailed specifications. Figure 5 To implement.

[0138] The anti-torsion device 130 is mounted to the tower 100 via the central support structure 116 and can replace, for example, Figure 6 The radial cable guide 120 shown is positioned closest to the cable support arrangement 150.

[0139] The anti-torsion device 130 may include a cable fixing portion 132 for securing the power cable 160 to the mounting plate 133 using a cable fixing device 134. Thus, the cable fixing portion 132 is securely connected to the power cable 160. Furthermore, the cable fixing portion 132 is connected to the mounting portion 136 via an intermediate portion 138, thereby preventing rotation of the cable fixing portion 134 about the cable axis 162 and / or displacement of the cable fixing portion 134 relative to the mounting portion 136 in the radial direction 110, and allowing displacement in the axial direction 112 and / or along the cable axis 162.

[0140] For example, the power cable 160 can be attached to the mounting plate 133 by means of a bracket-shaped fixing device 134. Optionally or alternatively, the intermediate portion 138 may include a clamp 139 that holds the mounting plate 133 in the radial direction 110 and prevents the power cable 160 from rotating together with the cable fixing portion 132.

[0141] according to Figures 3 to 6 All embodiments include an electrical connection arrangement 140, which is positioned below the cable support arrangement 150. However, the electrical connection arrangement, disclosed but not shown, is positioned within the tower such that the electrical connection arrangement 140 is positioned at an appropriate ergonomic mounting and working height for a professional standing on the support platform 152. For this purpose, the power cable 160 following the support portion can then be guided upwards again to the electrical connection arrangement 140, which is positioned at an appropriate working height for the professional.

[0142] Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications and variations can be made to the present application without departing from its scope or spirit, e.g., features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield still a further embodiment (e.g., by Figures 3 to 5 combining the first embodiment of the anti-twist device 130 with the embodiment of the anti-twist device having Figure 6 ) and, thus, it is intended that the present application cover modifications and variations of this application provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0143] Reference Number

[0144] 10 wind turbine

[0145] 12 ground

[0146] 14 support system

[0147] 16 nacelle

[0148] 18 rotor

[0149] 20 rotatable hub

[0150] 22 rotor blade

[0151] 24 blade root portion

[0152] 26 load transfer region

[0153] 28 wind direction

[0154] 30 rotor axis

[0155] 32 pitch system

[0156] 34 pitch axis

[0157] 36 wind turbine controller

[0158] 38 yaw axis

[0159] 40 processor

[0160] 42 generator

[0161] 44 main shaft

[0162] 46 gear box

[0163] 48 high speed shaft

[0164] 50 coupling

[0165] 52 main frame

[0166] 54 decoupling support device

[0167] 56 yaw drive mechanism

[0168] 58 weather mast

[0169] 60 forward support bearing

[0170] 62 rear support bearing

[0171] 64 drive train

[0172] 66 pitch assembly

[0173] 68 pitch drive system

[0174] 70 sensor

[0175] 72 pitch bearing

[0176] 74 pitch drive motor

[0177] 76 pitch drive gearbox

[0178] 78 pitch drive pinion

[0179] 80 pitch control system

[0180] 84 power generator

[0181] 86 cavity

[0182] 88 inner surface

[0183] 90 transformer

[0184] 92 nacelle cable securing device

[0185] 100 tower

[0186] 102 top end

[0187] 104 support end

[0188] 106 tower radius

[0189] 108 tower wall

[0190] 110 radial direction

[0191] 112 axial direction

[0192] 116 central support structure

[0193] 120 radial cable guide

[0194] 122 ring

[0195] 130 torsion-resistant securing device

[0196] 132 cable fixing portion

[0197] 133 fixing plate

[0198] 134 cable fixing means

[0199] 136 mounting portion

[0200] 138 intermediate portion

[0201] 139 clamp

[0202] 140 electrical connection arrangement

[0203] 142 cable joint point

[0204] 144 connector

[0205] 146 subsequent power conducting means

[0206] 150 cable support arrangement

[0207] 152 support platform

[0208] 154 cable support fixing means

[0209] 156 platform surface

[0210] 158 support stand

[0211] 160 power cable

[0212] 162 cable axis

[0213] 164 suspension portion

[0214] 166 cable loop portion

[0215] 168 support portion

[0216] 169 lower cable end

[0217] 170 vertical cable loop

[0218] 172 first bend

[0219] 174 vertical plane

[0220] 180 horizontal cable loop

[0221] 182 second bend

[0222] 184 horizontal plane

[0223] 186 virtual line

[0224] 188 Nacelle connection portion.

Claims

1. A tower (100) for a wind turbine (10), the tower (100) comprising: - a top end (102) for rotatably bearing a nacelle (16) of the wind turbine (10) about a yaw axis (38); a bearing end (104) for bearing the wind turbine (10) on a bearing system (14) on a ground surface (12), the nacelle (16) having an electrical power member, - the tower (100) further comprising at least two power cables (160) for electrically connecting the electrical power member with an electrical connection arrangement (140) mounted to the tower (100) at a lower level than the top end (102) or positioned on the ground surface (12), - at least one radial cable guide (120) mounted to the tower (100) for attaching the power cables (160) to the tower (100) by limiting a space for movement of the power cables (160) at least along a radial direction (110) of the tower (100) while allowing a displacement of the cables (160) along an axial direction (112) of the tower (100), - a cable bearing arrangement (150) mounted to the tower (100) at a lower level than the radial cable guide (120) for bearing at least a portion of the cables (160), and - anti-torsion fixation means configured for reducing and / or preventing a propagation of a cable twist of the cables (160) of a hanging portion (164) into the power cables (160) of a loop portion (166), - wherein the cable bearing arrangement (150) and the anti-torsion fixation means at least partially hold the power cables (160) and are arranged and configured such that the power cables (160) comprise a hanging portion (164) having a cable axis (162), a cable loop portion (166) having a horizontal cable loop (180), and a bearing portion (168) at least partially held by the cable bearing arrangement (150), - wherein the cable loop portion (166) comprises a first bend (172) forming a vertical cable loop (170) extending at least partially in a vertical plane (174) and a second bend (182) at least partially bent to obtain an orientation component of the power cables (160) along a circumferential direction of the tower (100) and thereby forming the horizontal cable loop (180) extending at least partially in a horizontal plane (184).

2. Tower (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that The cable support arrangement (150) is positioned at a tower level and the power cable (160) has a length such that the cable loop portion (166) extends at least on the same height level as the support portion (168) and / or such that the cable loop portion (166) is not arranged at a level lower than the support portion (168) and / or lower than the cable support arrangement (150).

3. The tower (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that - the anti-twist fixation means comprise at least partially cable support fixation means (154) for firmly mounting at least a portion of the support portion (168) to the cable support arrangement (150) and further comprise the suspension portion (164) having a determined length such that the cable loop portion (166) with the vertical cable loop (170) and the horizontal cable loop (180) is formed, and / or - the anti-twist fixation means are embodied as at least one anti-twist fixation device (130) configured for arranging the cable (160) to the tower (100) such that a rotation of the cable (160) around the cable axis (162) is inhibited while the cable (160) at least partially for the suspension portion (164) and at least partially for the cable loop portion (166) is movable in the axial direction (112).

4. Tower (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that The cable support fixation means (154) are arranged such that and the power cable (160) has a length such that a minimum deflection radius of a deflection radius is at least 0.2 m.

5. Tower (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that At least one of the power cables (160) has a cross section of at least 80 mm 2 and / or can have a cross section of not more than 110 mm 2 .

6. Tower (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that At least one of the power cables (160) has a cross-section of at least 55 mm 2 and / or can have a cross-section of not more than 85 mm 2 .

7. The tower (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that The cable loop portion (166) is dimensioned such that a deviation of an effective length of the suspension portion (164) caused by a cable twist can be compensated by the cable loop portion (166) without falling below the minimum deflection radius.

8. Tower (100) according to any of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that The cable support fixation means (154) are arranged such that: The orientation of the power cable (160) in the horizontal plane (184) directly adjacent to the cable loop portion (166) of the cable support fixation means (154) does not point towards the cable axis (162), and / or A virtual straight line (167) extending in the horizontal plane (184) defined by the orientation of the cable (160) directly adjacent to the cable loop portion (166) of the cable support fixation means (154) has a minimum distance to the cable axis (162) of at least 0.1 of the respective tower radius (106).

9. Tower (100) according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The cable support arrangement (150) is at least partially formed by a cable loop platform (152) having a platform surface (156) supporting the cable (160).

10. Tower (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that The cable loop platform (152) covers not more than 70% of the size of the respective cross-sectional area of the tower (100).

11. Tower (100) according to any of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that A central support structure (116) is arranged in the tower (100) and extends along the axial direction (112), wherein the radial cable guide (120) is mounted to the central support structure (116).

12. Tower (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that A plurality of radial cable guides (120) is mounted to the central support structure (116) along the axial direction (112).

13. Tower (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that At least two of the radial cable guides (120) are mounted to the central support structure (116) such that the distance between the radial cable guides (120) is at least equal to 3 m and / or not more than 7 m.

14. Tower (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that The anti-twist fixation device (130) comprises: - a cable fixation portion (132) having fixation means (134) for securely mounting the cable (160) to the cable fixation portion (132), - a mounting portion (136) for mounting the anti-twist fixation device (130) to the central support structure (116), and - an intermediate portion (138) configured for holding the cable fixation portion (132) to the mounting portion (136) such that a rotation and / or displacement of the cable fixation portion (132) relative to the mounting portion (136) in radial direction (110) is prevented and a displacement in axial direction (112) and / or along the cable axis (162) is enabled.

15. Tower (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that The intermediate portion comprises means for at least partially enabling a rolling contact between the cable fixation portion (132) and the mounting portion (136) and / or means for providing a reduced friction coefficient between a friction member of a steel-on-steel tribological combination and a friction coefficient of steel.

16. Tower (100) according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The electric power component is a generator (42).

17. A wind turbine (10) comprising: a nacelle (16); a rotor (18) having at least one rotor blade (22), wherein the rotor (18) is rotatably supported by the nacelle (16); and a tower (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nacelle (16) is rotatably mounted on the top end (102) about a yaw axis (38) of the wind turbine (10) and has an electric power component.

18. The wind turbine (10) according to claim 17, characterized in that The electric power component is a generator (42). a nacelle (16); a rotor (18) having at least one rotor blade (22), wherein the rotor (18) is rotatably supported by the nacelle (16); and a tower (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nacelle (16) is rotatably mounted on the top end (102) about a yaw axis (38) of the wind turbine (10) and has an electric power component. The electric power component is a generator (42).

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