Transport trailer and mechanical coupling alignment system

Abstract

A turbomachinery power plant may be too large and heavy for transportation. Therefore, embodiments for separating the complete power plant into roadworthy turbine and generator trailers, as well as for realigning and reconnecting the trailers to operate the power plant at the desired destination, are disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments described herein generally relate to transportable machinery, and more specifically to systems for transporting and aligning turbomachinery. Background Technology

[0002] A complete turbomachinery power station may be too large and heavy for transport as a single unit on motor roads. Therefore, a system is needed to detach the station and ensure the detached equipment complies with applicable road regulations (e.g., regarding size and weight) during movement. Furthermore, if the station's turbine and generator are detached onto separate trailers, a system is needed to precisely realign the mechanical components, including the drivetrain frame, shafts, etc., to prevent any rotor dynamics problems. In particular, a system for detaching and reconnecting the turbine and generator shafts is desirable, which simplifies assembly and eliminates or minimizes the need for heavy lifting. A protective cover for the connection between the turbine and generator, which can be easily stored for transport and deployed prior to operation, is also desirable. This disclosure aims to overcome one or more of the problems identified by the inventors. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A power plant is disclosed, comprising: a turbine trailer including a turbine compartment housing a turbine, wherein a first portion of a turbine drive shaft is provided; and a generator trailer including a generator compartment housing a generator, wherein the generator is driven by a second portion of the drive shaft, wherein the second portion of the drive shaft is configured to engage and disengage from the first portion of the drive shaft.

[0004] A method for aligning and connecting two trailers representing separate portions of a power plant is disclosed, wherein the method includes: positioning a first of the two trailers; positioning a second of the two trailers such that a guide pin in the rear interface of one of the two trailers is located within a receiving socket in the rear interface of the other of the two trailers; connecting a first fastening portion of one or more hydraulic cylinders of one of the two trailers to a corresponding second fastening portion of the other of the two trailers, and pulling the other of the two trailers toward one of the two trailers; connecting the rear interfaces of the two trailers together; adjusting one or more lateral and vertical locators in the rear interfaces of the two trailers; adjusting one or more hydraulic jacks on the two trailers to align the drivetrains of the two trailers; and connecting a portion of the driveshaft of one of the two trailers to a portion of the driveshaft of the other of the two trailers. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Details of the embodiments of this disclosure (regarding their structure and operation) can be gathered in part by studying the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same parts, and wherein:

[0006] Figure 1 A pair of trailers for transporting separate parts of a turbine, according to an embodiment, are shown;

[0007] Figure 2-4 The positioning of a pair of trailers according to an embodiment is shown;

[0008] Figure 5 and 6 The mating features on a pair of trailers according to an embodiment are shown;

[0009] Figure 7-9 A locator for fine alignment according to an embodiment is shown;

[0010] Figure 10 A connection interface between a pair of trailers according to an embodiment is shown;

[0011] Figure 11 A system for aligning and coupling trailers is shown according to an embodiment;

[0012] Figure 12-14 The connection between the drive shaft of the turbine in the turbine trailer and the drive shaft of the generator in the generator trailer according to an embodiment is shown.

[0013] Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the drive shaft cut along the longitudinal axis according to an embodiment is shown;

[0014] Figure 16 A top view of the alignment components of an assembled power plant according to an embodiment is shown;

[0015] Figure 17 A complete turbomachinery power plant according to an embodiment is shown;

[0016] Figure 18 The components of a hydraulic and control system for a pair of trailers according to an embodiment are shown;

[0017] Figure 19 An exemplary architecture for a control system according to an embodiment is shown;

[0018] Figure 20 A top perspective view of a pair of coupled trailers according to an embodiment is shown;

[0019] Figure 21 and 22 A trailer seal between a pair of coupled trailers according to an embodiment is shown;

[0020] Figure 23 and 24 The following are bottom perspective views of the turbine air inlet filter module, both unattached and attached to the trailer, according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 25 A top perspective view of a turbine air inlet filter module according to an embodiment is shown; and

[0022] Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of a trailer connected to a turbine air inlet filter module according to an embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The detailed description set forth below with reference to the accompanying drawings is intended to describe various embodiments and is not intended to represent the only embodiments that can be practiced with respect to this disclosure. The detailed description includes specific details in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in a simplified form for the purpose of brevity.

[0024] Figure 1 A pair of trailers for transporting separate portions of a turbomachinery according to an embodiment is shown. In the embodiment, the turbine portion may be housed in a turbine trailer 100, and the generator portion may be housed in a generator trailer 200. Specifically, the turbine trailer 100 may include a turbine 122 and turbine subsystems, and the generator trailer 200 may include a generator 242 and generator subsystems. Each portion of the turbomachinery may be integrated into its respective trailer frame and housing in a manner suitable for automotive road regulations. It should be understood that both the turbine portion and the generator portion include a portion of a driveshaft that generates electricity when connected and operated. It should also be understood that the turbomachinery may be separated from other components connected by the driveshaft (e.g., between the turbine and a compressor or pump) as a complement or alternative to separating the turbomachinery between the turbine and the generator. More generally, the disclosed embodiments can be used to align and engage any mechanical system with a separate shaft (e.g., a reciprocating engine).

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, trailer 100 includes a flatbed with a plurality of hydraulic jacks 102 (e.g., four hydraulic jacks, each near a different corner of the flatbed, including two front hydraulic jacks 102A and two rear hydraulic jacks 102B). Similarly, trailer 200 may include a flatbed with a plurality of hydraulic jacks 202 (e.g., four hydraulic jacks, each near a different corner of the flatbed, including two front hydraulic jacks 202A and two rear hydraulic jacks 202B). Each flatbed of trailers 100 and 200 may include a triple axle configuration with three rear axles. However, it should be understood that other numbers and configurations of axles are also possible.

[0026] Additionally, trailers 100 and 200 may each include boosters 104 and 204 for distributing ground loads across an additional axle. However, it should be understood that boosters 104 and / or 204 may be omitted in alternative embodiments. In embodiments using boosters 104 and 204, each booster 104 and 204 may be removed from its respective trailer 100 and 200 to facilitate coupling of trailers 100 and 200.

[0027] In the embodiments, each trailer 100 and 200 employs a modular and compact layout to efficiently encapsulate the components of the corresponding parts of the turbomachinery. For example, the encapsulation support systems for the turbine and generator (e.g., fuel, filtration, ventilation, cooling, control, lubrication, environmental and fire protection, etc.) can be arranged in a practical manner to maintain performance and suitability. Figure 1 An example of this layout is shown. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, turbine trailer 100 includes, from front to back, a lubrication oil compartment 110 and a turbine compartment 120. Turbine compartment 120 may include a turbine 122, one or more turbine housing ventilation fans 130, a turbine exhaust port 140, a low-emission system 150 (e.g., a SoLoNOx™ gas fuel system), a turbine air inlet 160, and a turbine housing ventilation inlet 170. In the illustrated embodiment, generator trailer 200 includes, from front to back, a fire extinguishing cabinet 210, an electrical equipment compartment (EEC) 220, a medium-pressure compartment 230, and a generator compartment 240. Generator compartment 240 may include a generator 242, a generator compartment ventilation inlet 250, and a generator exhaust port 260. However, it should be understood that other layouts may be used, components may be omitted or added in alternative embodiments, and not all components of trailers 100 and 200 are specifically discussed herein.

[0028] Figure 2-14A process and system for aligning and coupling trailers 100 and 200 according to an embodiment are illustrated. The illustrated alignment process can be performed before sale or delivery, for example, in a factory. In this case, the alignment process should be performed on a horizontal plane. Once this initial alignment process has been completed, certain adjustment mechanisms can be set or locked in place for future repeatability and / or watermarks can be affixed for future reference. This initial alignment process can reduce the time and effort required for future alignment processes using the same pair of trailers 100 and 200.

[0029] Although the alignment process will be shown first with the positioning of generator trailer 200, it should be understood that the alignment process can instead begin with the positioning of turbine trailer 100. In other words, trailers 100 and 200 can be positioned in either order.

[0030] Furthermore, although certain features may be shown positioned on one trailer and mating with corresponding features on another trailer, it should be understood that any of these mating features may be reversed relative to the trailer on which they are positioned. Thus, for example, a first feature shown as positioned on trailer 100 and mating with a second feature shown as positioned on trailer 200 may, in an alternative embodiment, be positioned on trailer 200, and the second feature on trailer 100. Therefore, any alignment feature shown herein as positioned on trailer 100 may alternatively be positioned on trailer 200, and vice versa.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the generator trailer 200 can be positioned by a tractor (e.g., a semi-truck). Then, as... Figure 3 As shown, the generator trailer 200 can be detached from the tractor. Before detachment, the front hydraulic jack 202A can be lowered to position the generator trailer 200. Air can then be released from the generator trailer 200 to lock its brakes, and the tractor can be removed from the generator trailer 200. Next, the rear hydraulic jack 202B can be lowered under the control of an automatic lowering hydraulic jack 202B control system until solid ground is found. Suspension air can be vented from the generator trailer 200's suspension to transfer the trailer's weight to the hydraulic jacks 202. Coarse leveling can be performed to level the generator trailer 200 at its current nominal height.

[0032] like Figure 4 As shown, the turbine trailer 100 can be roughly aligned with the generator trailer 200 by reversing a tractor unit (e.g., a semi-truck). Figure 5As shown, trailers 100 and 200 may include mating features 510 / 520 and / or 530 / 540. For example, mating features 510 / 520 may include a guide pin 510 on the rear of one trailer (e.g., generator trailer 200) configured to mate with a receiving socket 520 on the rear of the other trailer (e.g., turbine trailer 100). It should be understood that guide pins 510 may be present on both sides of one of the trailers, each guide pin mates with a corresponding receiving socket 520 on the corresponding side of the other trailer. Thus, turbine trailer 100 may be moved straight back toward generator trailer 200 until the guide pin 510 is at least partially inserted into the receiving socket 520. Once turbine trailer 100 is positioned, the tractor unit may be placed in neutral or the kingpin of the tractor unit may be disengaged from turbine trailer 100, such that mating features 530 / 540 can be used to fully engage the two trailers 100 and 200. Lower the front hydraulic jack 102A, then air can be disconnected from the turbine trailer 100 to lock the brakes of the turbine trailer 100, and the towing vehicle can be removed from the turbine trailer 100. Alternatively, the turbine trailer 100 can be carefully reversed until it is fully engaged with the trailer 200 at its rear interface.

[0033] Next, mating features 530 / 540 can be used to pull trailers 100 and 200 together. For example, mating features 530 / 540 can include a hydraulic cylinder 540 at the rear of one trailer (e.g., turbine trailer 100) having an eyelet 545 at one end configured to engage with a post 530 at the rear of the other trailer (e.g., generator trailer 200). It should be understood that hydraulic cylinders 540 can be present on both sides of one of the trailers, each including an eyelet 545 configured to engage a corresponding post 530 on the corresponding side of the other trailer. For example, each eyelet 545 can surround the corresponding post 530 and be secured to the post 530 by any known fastening means (e.g., bolts, screws, pins, etc.). Once engaged, the hydraulic cylinder 540 can be operated to retract the eyelet 545, thereby pulling trailers 100 and 200 together via the engagement between the eyelet 545 and the post 530, as... Figure 6 As shown in the diagram. It is noteworthy that when trailers 100 and 200 are pulled together in this manner, the guide pins 510 are fully pulled into their corresponding receiving sockets 520. Once the guide pins 510 are fully engaged with the receiving sockets 520, the eyelet 545 can disengage from the post 530, and the hydraulic cylinder 540 can retract. In an alternative embodiment, the eyelet 545 can be replaced by a hook, and the post 530 can be replaced by an eyelet configured to receive the hook for engagement. In this embodiment, trailers 100 and 200 can be pulled together in a similar manner using the hydraulic cylinder 545.

[0034] Figure 7A system for fine alignment according to an embodiment is shown. For example, the fine alignment system may include a lateral locator 710 and a vertical locator 720. Ideally, fine alignment is performed before the sale or delivery of trailers 100 and 200, and then the positions of locators 710 and 720 are locked in place, so that fine alignment only needs to be performed once. However, it should be understood that fine alignment may be performed after the sale or delivery or each time trailers 100 and 200 are assembled. Additionally, even in embodiments where fine alignment is performed before sale or delivery, minor adjustments may be necessary over time.

[0035] As shown, there may be at least one pair of lateral positioners 710 positioned laterally facing each other on opposite sides of the rear of a trailer (e.g., turbine trailer 100). For example, there may be two pairs of lateral positioners 710, including a pair 710A facing each other at the lower end of the rear flatbed interface and a pair 710B facing each other at the upper end of the rear flatbed interface. Additionally, there may be two pairs of vertical positioners 720. Each pair of vertical positioners 720 may include a first vertical positioner 720A, which is vertically aligned above and oriented in the opposite direction to the second vertical positioner 720B. The first pair of vertical positioners 720A / 720B may be located on one side of the rear of a trailer (e.g., generator trailer 200) that is different from the trailer on which the lateral positioners 710 are positioned, and the second pair of vertical positioners 720A / 720B may be located on the opposite side of the rear of the same trailer as the first pair of vertical positioners 720A / 720B.

[0036] In an embodiment, each of the positioners 710 and 720 may include a lifting bolt. Figure 8 A cross-sectional front view of the vertical positioners 720A and 720B is shown, and Figure 9A cross-sectional top view of the lateral positioner 710 according to an embodiment is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, each lift bolt includes a bolt 810, a ball socket 820, and a moving ball 830. The bolt 810 can be rotated to push the ball socket 820 against the moving ball 830, thereby pressing the moving ball 830 against the surface of the respective trailer, thereby achieving fine movement of the respective trailer. However, it should be understood that other types of lift bolts or positioners or any other linear adjustment mechanism can be used, and the lateral positioner 710 and the vertical positioner 720 can use lift bolts or other positioners of different types from each other. In any case, the lateral positioner 710 achieves fine movement in the lateral direction, and the vertical positioner 720 achieves fine movement in the vertical direction, such that the positions of the turbine trailer 100 and the generator trailer 200 relative to each other can be finely adjusted. It should be understood that as the positioners 710 and 720 are adjusted, the trailers 100 and 200 can move on their respective suspensions. Positioners 710 and 720 can be used to align watermarks, drive shafts, and so on.

[0037] Figure 10 The connection interface between trailers 100 and 200 according to an embodiment is shown. With the guide pin 510 fully inserted into the receiving socket 520 and finely aligned, the flange 1010 of the turbine trailer 100 becomes flush with the flange 1020 of the generator trailer 200. Bolts 1030 can be inserted from one side (e.g., from one side of the turbine trailer 100) through bolt holes and engage with nuts 1040 on the other side (e.g., on one side of the generator trailer 200) to clamp and hold flanges 1010 and 1020 therebetween. It should be understood that flanges 1010 and 1020 can be connected by multiple pairs of bolts 1030 and nuts 1040 at least at the four corners of flanges 1010 and 1020 (e.g., on both sides of trailers 100 and 200).

[0038] In this embodiment, after the guide pin 510 is inserted into the receiving socket 520, and before fine alignment is performed using the positioners 710 and 720, the bolt 1030 and nut 1040 can be loosely engaged. Once fine alignment has been performed, the bolt 1030 and nut 1040 can then be securely engaged to hold the trailers 100 and 200 in their final relative positions.

[0039] Although not shown, in embodiments, an inflatable plate (e.g., AeroGo™ Aero-Casters or similar products) may be used to facilitate the alignment of trailers 100 and 200 (e.g., on rough terrain). For example, once generator trailer 200 has been positioned, an inflatable plate can be placed behind generator trailer 200 in a configuration designed to support the wheels of turbine trailer 100, and turbine trailer 100 can be supported such that the inflatable plate is located under the wheels of turbine trailer 100. Furthermore, once turbine trailer 100 has been positioned, the inflatable plate can be placed under the jacks of turbine trailer 100 to further support turbine trailer 100 during alignment. The inflatable plate can be inflated and deflated as needed to allow turbine trailer 100 to slide laterally and / or rise vertically. Once trailers 100 and 200 are aligned, the inflatable plate can be removed.

[0040] Figure 11 A system for aligning coupled trailers 100 and 200 according to an embodiment is shown. Specifically, trailers 100 and 200 may include one or more inclinometers 1110, which generate output signals indicating the tilt angle of the respective trailer. In the illustrated embodiment, turbine trailer 100 includes inclinometers 1110A located on both sides near the front hydraulic jack 102A, and generator trailer 200 includes a pair of inclinometers 1110B near the front hydraulic jack 202A and 1110C near the rear hydraulic jack 202B on both sides. However, it should be understood that other numbers and arrangements of inclinometers 1110 can be used.

[0041] In one embodiment, the control system may receive output signals from each inclinometer 1110 and, based on those output signals and according to an algorithm, control the hydraulic jacks 102 / 202 on the two trailers 100 and 200 to automatically and electromechanically move the outputs of the inclinometers 1110 to their original corresponding values, as captured during the initial drivetrain alignment process (e.g., and recorded in the control system's memory as factory settings). This ensures that during any subsequent alignment process, the coupled trailers 100 and 200 are always positioned in the same relative location, regardless of the specific characteristics of the ground. These positions represent the alignment between the trailers 100 and 200, which is required for precise drivetrain alignment between their respective payloads (e.g., turbine 122 and generator 242). The control system can be integrated with one or both of trailers 100 and 200, or it can be an external system that is communicatively connected (e.g., via wired or wireless connection) to the inclinometer 1110 and the actuation systems of the hydraulic jacks 102 / 202 in both trailers 100 and 200. The control system can be programmed to check the alignment of trailers 100 and 200 over time and make periodic adjustments to ensure that trailers 100 and 200 remain in the same relative position after the turbine machinery (e.g., including turbine 122 and generator 242) has been set. In an embodiment, the hydraulic jacks 102 and / or 202 can also be manually controlled.

[0042] Figure 12-14The connection between the drive shaft of the turbine in the turbine trailer 100 and the drive shaft of the generator in the generator trailer 200 according to an embodiment is shown. For ease of illustration, the housing of the turbine trailer 100 has been omitted to show the turbine drive shaft 1210 without obstruction. In practice, the drive shaft 1210 can be exposed, for example, by opening a door, panel, or other cover at the rear of the turbine trailer 100. Similarly, the generator drive shaft 1220 can be exposed, for example, by opening a door, panel, or other cover at the rear of the generator trailer 200. Since trailers 100 and 200 are aligned, drive shafts 1210 and 1220 will also be substantially aligned. However, for precise alignment of drive shafts 1210 and 1220, a laser alignment tool 1240 can be used. For example, the laser tool 1240 may include a laser emitter 1240A and a laser receiver 1240B. Laser emitter 1240A can be attached to the circumference of one of drive shafts 1210 or 1220 (e.g., via magnetic coupling) to emit laser light parallel to the longitudinal axis of one drive shaft 1210 or 1220, and laser receiver 1240B can be attached to a corresponding position on the circumference of the other drive shaft 1210 or 1220 (e.g., via magnetic coupling). Measurements can be taken at each of a plurality of locations around the circumference of drive shafts 1210 / 1220 to determine an offset, which can then be used to more precisely align drive shafts 1210 and 1220 relative to each other, for example, by moving trailers 100 and 200 relative to each other using lateral locators 710 and vertical locators 720.

[0043] In one embodiment, the turbine drive shaft 1210 includes a telescopic flange 1215 on its exposed end. Similarly, the generator drive shaft 1220 includes a corresponding fixed flange 1225. However, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the generator drive shaft 1220 may include a telescopic flange and the turbine drive shaft 1210 may include a fixed flange, or both the turbine drive shaft 1210 and the generator drive shaft 1220 may include telescopic flanges. Figure 13 As shown, the expansion flange 1215 can be extended to make flush contact with the fixed flange 1225. The expansion flange 1215 and the fixed flange 1225 can then be connected to each other using any known coupling device (e.g., bolts and nuts that clamp the flanges 1215 and 1225 together along their peripheries).

[0044] like Figure 14As shown, the protective cover 1230 can extend over the coupled drive shafts 1210 / 1220 to protect the drive shafts 1210 / 1220 from damage by foreign objects and to protect the operator from personal injury during the operation of the turbine machinery. The protective cover 1230 can be telescopic. In particular, the protective cover 1230 can include a plurality of segmented cones with gradually decreasing diameters, which extend and retract along their respective lengths to provide a barrier. The protective cover 1230 can extend and retract from the rear of the turbine trailer 100 or from the rear of the generator trailer 200. When extended, the end of the protective cover 1230 can be coupled to a corresponding flange 1400 or other connector on the rear of the trailer via any coupling device (e.g., secured with clips). For transport purposes, the protective cover 1230 can be detached, collapsed / retracted, and stored in a turbine gearbox housing (e.g., if mounted on turbine trailer 100) or a generator housing (e.g., if mounted on generator trailer 200). In an alternative embodiment, the protective cover 1230 may include two telescopic portions, a first telescopic portion mounted on the rear of turbine trailer 100 and a second telescopic portion mounted on the rear of generator trailer 200, such that both telescopic portions can extend and engage with each other at or near the midpoint of the coupled driveshafts 1210 / 1220 for operation, and retract for transport. In either case, the protective cover 1230 seals the housings of the two trailers 100 and 200 to each other, thereby protecting the interior of the housings from environmental influences while allowing the driveshafts 1210 and 1220 to be coupled between trailers 100 and 200.

[0045] Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the drive shafts 1210 / 1220, cut along the longitudinal axis according to an embodiment, is shown. As shown, the turbine drive shaft 1210 is connected to the turbine gearbox hub 1510 in the turbine trailer 100, and the generator drive shaft 1220 is connected to the generator hub 1520 in the generator trailer 200. Furthermore, a spline joint 1212 can be used to enable the extension and retraction of the telescopic flange 1215 while preventing the telescopic flange 1215 from completely retracting from the drive shaft 1210. During transport, the telescopic flange 1215 can retract into the drive shaft 1210 and be supported by a bracket.

[0046] Other trailer connections can also be formed via releasable couplings. For example, the drivetrain, electrical system, fire protection system, and lubrication system between trailers 100 and 200 can be connected to each other via one or more releasable couplings.

[0047] Figure 16 A top view of the aligned components of an assembled power station according to an embodiment is shown. It should be understood that the trailer's top panel... Figure 16The internal components have been omitted to show the internal parts. In the illustrated embodiment, from the front of turbine trailer 100 to the front of generator trailer 200, the aligned components include turbine housing ventilation fan 130 (e.g., for exhausting exhaust gases from the interior of turbine trailer 100), turbine exhaust port 140 (e.g., for exhausting exhaust gases generated by turbine 122), turbine 122, turbine air inlet 160 (e.g., for supplying air to turbine 122), turbine housing ventilation inlet 170 (e.g., for supplying cooling air to the interior of turbine trailer 100), generator exhaust port 260, generator 242, and generator compartment ventilation inlet 250. It is noteworthy that all inlets and exhaust systems are contained within the housings of trailers 100 and 200. Although alternative embodiments may implement different arrangements or layouts of the components, the disclosed arrangement has been found to facilitate cooling flow and gas dissipation in housing ventilation, weight distribution according to frame structure analysis and road regulations, minimizing pressure loss from filtration, providing ergonomics for inspection and maintenance, efficient use of space, and so on.

[0048] Not all components of the power plant need to be housed within the enclosures of trailers 100 and 200. For example, the turbine air inlet filter module 1610 may be externally connected to the turbine trailer 100, logically located before the air inlet of the turbine air inlet 160, to filter the air flowing into the turbine 122. The turbine air inlet filter module 1610 may extend from the bottom edge cantilever of the turbine trailer 100 and / or be supported by a hydraulic jack (e.g., similar to hydraulic jack 102). The turbine air inlet filter module 1610 can be connected and disconnected from the turbine air inlet 160 using any known coupling device and may be transported separately from trailers 100 and 200.

[0049] In this embodiment, ventilation within turbine compartment 120 is based on a "pull" system that draws in fresh air from a filter inlet duct (e.g., turbine housing ventilation inlet 170) mounted on the housing wall at the compressor end of turbine 122. This air is then exhausted from an exhaust fan (e.g., turbine housing ventilation fan 130) mounted on the combustion end of turbine 122, creating a negative pressure within turbine compartment 120. This is ideal for preventing gas leakage. The exposed layout of turbine trailer 100 is ideal for maximizing space and providing cooling flow to support turbine 122.

[0050] In this embodiment, ventilation within generator compartment 240 is based on a "push" system that forces air out from a filtered inlet duct (e.g., ventilation inlet 250) mounted on the housing wall at the actuator end of generator 242. Air can be forced into generator compartment 240 using an inlet fan to positively pressurize it. This is ideal for preventing gas intrusion from adjacent turbine compartment 120. Generator 242 itself may have an open cooling port that draws in fresh air from generator compartment 240 to cool it. Generator 242 can exhaust air through the top of generator compartment 240 (e.g., via generator exhaust port 260). The disclosed layout of generator trailer 200 is ideal for maximizing space and providing cooling flow to support generator 242.

[0051] In embodiments, trailers 100 and / or 200 may have means (e.g., support and attachment components) that allow the respective trailers to be lifted and / or secured to the foundation via a crane. The power plant may be able to operate using gaseous and / or liquid fuels. In embodiments, separate liquid fuel modules may be coupled to trailers 100 and / or 200 to supply liquid fuel to the power generation system.

[0052] Figure 17 A complete turbomachinery power plant 1700 according to an embodiment is shown. As shown, the complete turbomachinery power plant 1700 includes, from one end to the other, a turbine exhaust port 140, a turbine 122, a turbine air inlet 160, and an integrated reduction gearbox 1710 directly attached to a drive shaft 1210 driven by the turbine 122 and connected to a drive shaft 1220 that drives a generator 242. Typically, air flows into the turbine air inlet 160 and through the turbine 122, where it is compressed, mixed with fuel, and burned to drive the rotor assembly within the turbine 122. The rotation of the rotor assembly then causes the rotor shaft within the turbine 122 to rotate, and the rotor shaft is rotatably connected to the drive shafts 1210 / 1220 via the integrated reduction gearbox 1710. The rotation of the connected drive shafts 1210 / 1220 drives the generator 242. The integrated reduction gearbox 1710 reduces the rotational speed from the internal drive shaft of the turbine 122 to the drive shafts 1210 / 1220. The exhaust gas from the combustion in the turbine 122 exits the turbine 122 through the turbine exhaust port 140 to the other side of the turbine 122.

[0053] Figure 18Components of the hydraulic and control systems of trailers 100 and 200 according to embodiments are shown. For example, the illustrated components can be used to implement automatic leveling using the inclinometer 1110 and hydraulic jacks 102 / 202 described elsewhere herein. Notably, the systems controlling the hydraulic jacks 102 / 202 and the turbine machinery are positioned (e.g., on the sides of trailers 100 and 200) to ensure that the alignment and connection systems are available to the operator and to optimize the cable routing of each component.

[0054] It should be understood that the control system disclosed herein can utilize any standard or non-standard computer architecture. Figure 19 An exemplary architecture for a control system 1900 according to an embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the control system 1900 includes one or more processors 1920 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a dedicated microprocessor, etc.) communicatively connected to main memory 1930 (e.g., any form of random access memory (RAM)) and / or auxiliary memory 1940 (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, etc.) via a communication bus 1910 or other data channels. Software instructions (e.g., representing computer programs, published algorithms, etc.) can be transferred from auxiliary memory 1940 to main memory 1930, and processors 1920 can execute software instructions from main memory 1930. Furthermore, processors 1920 can communicatively connect to one or more external systems via input / output interfaces 1950 (e.g., physical ports) and / or communication interfaces 1950 (e.g., network interface cards) to receive and send data to the external systems. For example, processor 1920 can receive data from a first external system (e.g., a sensor, such as inclinometer 1110), process the data according to executed software instructions, and control a second external system (e.g., hydraulic jacks 102 / 202) based on the data according to the executed software instructions. In some cases, control system 1900 can be configured to wirelessly communicate with signals encoded and decoded by baseband system 1970 via antenna 1980 under the management of radio system 1975.

[0055] Figure 20 A top perspective view of connected trailers 100 and 200 according to an embodiment is shown. As shown, ventilation inlet filters 2010 (e.g., for turbine housing ventilation inlet 170 and generator housing ventilation inlet 250) may be incorporated into the sides of trailers 100 and 200. In embodiments, ventilation inlet filters 2010 may be incorporated into or integrated into doors or removable panels on the sides of trailers 100 and 200. In such embodiments, doors or panels including integrated ventilation inlet filters 2010 may be opened or removed to provide access to the interior of trailers 100 and 200 and / or facilitate replacement of ventilation inlet filters 2010.

[0056] Figure 21 and 22 A trailer seal 2100 between coupled trailers 100 and 200 is shown according to an embodiment. As shown, the trailer seal 2100 may include an extendable and retractable cover 2110 having a first sealing flange 2120A at one end and a second sealing flange 2120B at the other end. Furthermore, the trailer seal 2100 may include a plurality of fastening devices 2130 (e.g., clamps) to secure the sealing flanges 2120 to their respective trailers. During transport, the trailer seal 2100 can be stored by retracting the cover 2110 toward a trailer (e.g., generator trailer 200) to collapse the second sealing flange 2120B toward the first sealing flange 2120A. The cover 2110 may be releasably secured in the retracted position (e.g., using the fastening devices 2130). After trailers 100 and 200 are coupled and before the turbine machinery is operated, trailer seal 2100 can extend between the two trailers 100 and 200, and sealing flange 2120 can be secured to their respective trailers using fasteners 2130 to thereby seal the area around the coupled drive shafts 1210 / 1220 of the turbine machinery. It should be understood that trailer seal 2100 can be used with protective cover 1230 and can mat with protective cover 1230 to provide additional protection for components within protective cover 1230 and for components that may be present between protective cover 1230 and trailer seal 2100.

[0057] Figure 23 and 24Bottom perspective views of the turbine air inlet filter module 1610, both unattached and attached to the trailer 100, according to an embodiment, are shown. As shown, the air inlet of the turbine air inlet 160 can pass through the side of the turbine trailer 100, and the turbine air inlet filter module 1610 can be logically positioned before the air inlet to form one or more flow paths from the external environment of the air inlet filter module 1610 to the air inlet of the turbine air inlet 160. The turbine air inlet filter module 1610 may include a housing having one or more stages of air filters 1612 (e.g., two-stage particulate air filtration) and a muffler 1614 along the flow path to provide air filtration and noise reduction to the turbine air inlet 160, respectively. Furthermore, the turbine air inlet filter module may include weather shields 1616 at both ends to prevent the entry of rain and / or snow. The weatherproof cover 1616 may include a circular duct port 1618 for providing heating to the air filter 1612 to prevent icing during rain and snow, and a fog separator / eliminator 1619. As shown, the turbine air inlet filter module 1610 can be cantilevered to the side of the turbine trailer 100 using a beam 2310, which is releasably secured to the bottom of the turbine trailer 100 and the bottom of the turbine air inlet filter module 1610. Furthermore, the turbine air inlet filter module 1610 may be supported by legs 2320. During transport, the beam 2310 can be detached from the turbine trailer 100 and slid away (e.g., into a corresponding recess in the bottom of the turbine air inlet filter module 1610) or completely removed, and the legs 2320 can be folded (e.g., resting vertically against the side of the turbine air inlet filter module 1610) and stowed away.

[0058] Figure 25 A top perspective view of a turbine air inlet filter module 1610 attached to a trailer 100 according to an embodiment is shown. As shown, both ends of the air inlet filter module 1610 can be opened to expose two-stage air filters 1612. For example, both ends of the air inlet filter module 1610 may include doors that open and close via hinges and arms. The doors at both ends of the air inlet filter module 1610 can swing outward away from the trailer 100 to prevent obstruction of the sides of the trailer 100 (e.g., which may include various access panels) and to accommodate weatherproof covers 1616. Each door itself may include a first-stage air filter 1612, while the second-stage air filter 1612 is exposed in the open end of the air inlet filter module 1610. Thus, both stages of air filters 1612 can be easily accessed and / or replaced as needed.

[0059] Figure 26A cross-sectional view of a turbine trailer 100 coupled to a turbine air inlet filter module 1610 according to an embodiment is shown. As shown, an inflatable seal 2610 can be used to seal ventilation spaces (e.g., flow paths) so that the turbine air inlet filter module 1610 does not necessarily need to be bolted to the turbine trailer 100.

[0060] Industrial applicability

[0061] The disclosed embodiments divide the turbine 122 and generator 242 of the power station 1700 into two separate trailers 100 and 200, respectively, in accordance with automotive road regulations. Therefore, the power station can be mobilized and transported to any road-accessible location where it is needed. Furthermore, the disclosed embodiments include various alignment systems that facilitate coarse and fine alignment and leveling of the turbine 122 and generator 242, and coupling systems that facilitate safe and protected connection of the turbine 122 and generator 242 for operation of the power station 1700 in the desired location. It should be understood that disengaging the trailers 100 and 200 may include the same set of operations used for coupling the trailers 100 and 200, but in reverse order.

[0062] It should be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may pertain to several embodiments. Aspects described in connection with one embodiment are intended to be used with other embodiments. Any interpretation in connection with one embodiment applies to similar features of other embodiments, and elements of multiple embodiments may be combined to form other embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to embodiments that solve any or all of the stated problems, or embodiments that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages.

[0063] The specific embodiments described above are merely exemplary and not intended to limit the invention or its application and use. The described embodiments are not limited to use in conjunction with a particular type of turbomachinery. Therefore, although this embodiment is depicted and described as being implemented in a gas turbine engine for ease of explanation, it should be understood that it can be implemented in a variety of other types of turbomachinery and machines having turbines or mechanical transmissions, as well as in a variety of other systems and environments, where it may benefit from separation for transportation. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the foregoing sections. It should also be understood that the illustrations may include enlarged dimensions and graphical representations to better illustrate the referenced items shown, and are not to be considered limiting unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Claims

1. A power plant comprising: The drive shaft is divided into a first part and a second part; A turbine trailer, the turbine trailer including a turbine compartment housing a turbine, wherein the turbine drives the first portion of the drive shaft; A generator trailer, the generator trailer including a generator compartment for housing a generator, wherein the generator is driven by the second portion of the drive shaft; The first rear interface of one of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer; and The second rear interface of the other of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer. The second portion of the drive shaft is configured to engage and disengage from the first portion of the drive shaft; One of the first rear interface and the second rear interface includes one or more hydraulic cylinders having a first fastening portion. The other of the first rear interface and the second rear interface includes a second fastening portion corresponding to the first fastening portion of each of the one or more hydraulic cylinders. Each of the first fastening portions is configured to engage with a corresponding second fastening portion, and Each of the one or more hydraulic cylinders is configured to pull the other of the first rear port and the second rear port toward one of the first rear port and the second rear port when the corresponding first fastening portion engages with the corresponding second fastening portion.

2. The power plant of claim 1, wherein the first rear interface includes at least two guide pins, and wherein the second rear interface includes at least two receiving sockets, each of the at least two receiving sockets being configured to receive one of the two guide pins.

3. The power plant of claim 2, wherein one of the first rear interface and the second rear interface includes at least two lateral positioners configured to adjust the lateral alignment between the turbine trailer and the generator trailer when the two guide pins are received in the two receiving sockets.

4. The power plant of claim 2, wherein one of the first rear interface and the second rear interface includes at least four vertical positioners configured to adjust the vertical alignment between the turbine trailer and the generator trailer when the two guide pins are received in the two receiving sockets.

5. The power plant of claim 1, wherein each of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer includes a plurality of inclinometers configured to generate an output signal indicating the inclination angle of the respective trailer, and a plurality of hydraulic jacks, and wherein the power plant further includes a control system configured to: Receives output signals from each of the plurality of inclinometers from the turbine trailer and the generator trailer; and The system automatically adjusts one or more of the plurality of hydraulic jacks until the output signal of each of the plurality of inclinometers from the turbine trailer and the generator trailer matches a stored value representing the alignment between the drivetrains of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer.

6. The power plant of claim 1, wherein one or both of the first and second portions of the drive shaft include a telescopic flange, and wherein one or both of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer include a telescopic protective cover configured to extend around the drive shaft while the first and second portions of the drive shaft are connected to each other.

7. The power plant of claim 1, wherein a first rear interface of one of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer includes a laser emitter that emits a laser beam parallel to a longitudinal axis of a respective first or second portion of the drive shaft, and wherein a second rear interface of the other of the turbine trailer and the generator trailer includes a laser receiver configured to detect the laser beam and output an alignment measurement between the first and second portions of the drive shaft.

8. The power plant of claim 1, wherein the turbine compartment further houses a turbine air inlet for supplying air to the turbine, wherein the power plant further includes an air inlet filter module configured to be attached to the turbine trailer at a location logically prior to the inlet of the turbine air inlet to form at least one flow path from the external environment of the air inlet filter module to the inlet of the turbine air inlet, and wherein the air inlet filter module includes a housing that houses one or more air filtration stages along the at least one flow path.

9. A method for aligning and connecting two trailers representing separate portions of a power station, wherein the method comprises: Position the first of the two trailers; Position the second of the two trailers such that the guide pin in the rear interface of one of the two trailers is located in the receiving port in the rear interface of the other of the two trailers. Connect the first fastening portion of one or more hydraulic cylinders in one of the two trailers to the corresponding second fastening portion in the other of the two trailers, and pull the other of the two trailers toward one of the two trailers; Connect the rear interfaces of the two trailers together; Adjust one or more of the lateral and vertical positioners in the rear interfaces of the two trailers; Adjust one or more hydraulic jacks on the two trailers to align the drivetrains of the two trailers; as well as A portion of the drive shaft in one of the two trailers is connected to a portion of the drive shaft in the other of the two trailers.

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