Tool and method for handling tower segments

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a tool and method for manipulating a tower segment of a wind turbine tower. The tool includes a first wheeled platform, a second wheeled platform, and a frame. The frame includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion is attached to the first wheeled platform and is configured to support a first end portion of a sling. The second side portion is attached to the second wheeled platform and is configured to support a second end portion of the sling. The first wheeled platform and the second wheeled platform are separated along a horizontal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to wind turbines, and more particularly to methods and tools for maneuvering sections of wind turbine towers. Background Technology

[0002] Modern wind turbines are commonly used to supply electricity to the power grid. Such a wind turbine generally consists of a tower and a rotor mounted on the tower. The rotor (which typically includes a hub and multiple blades) is set to rotate by the influence of wind on the blades. This rotation generates torque, which is typically transmitted directly or via a gearbox through the rotor shaft to a generator. In this way, the generator produces electricity that can be supplied to the power grid.

[0003] The wind turbine hub can be rotatably connected to the front of the nacelle. The wind turbine hub can be connected to the rotor shaft, and the rotor shaft can then be rotatably mounted in the nacelle using one or more rotor shaft bearings arranged in a frame inside the nacelle. The nacelle is a shell arranged on top of the wind turbine tower that contains and protects, for example, a gearbox (if present) and a generator, and, depending on the wind turbine, contains and protects additional components (such as power converters) and auxiliary systems.

[0004] Modern wind turbines have become increasingly powerful and correspondingly larger. Wind turbines capable of providing a rated power of over 10 MW can have towers exceeding 130 m in height and weighing over 800 tons. The diameter of tower sections can be between 5 m and 10 m or even larger. For example, the diameter of the tower top can be greater than 5 m, and the diameter of the tower base can be greater than 8 m.

[0005] Therefore, modern wind turbine towers have dimensions that make transporting and erecting them difficult and expensive. Wind turbine towers can be divided into sections to facilitate their transport using available vehicles and tools, and also to comply with national or regional size and weight restrictions. Transporting tower sections can still be complex; for example, tower sections can have diameters between 5 and 10 meters, weigh over 300 tons, and have lengths of 20, 30, 40 meters, or longer.

[0006] After the tower sections are manufactured, they can be stored on supports (such as brackets or "elephant feet"). The tower sections can be picked up and transported by a self-propelled modular transport (SPMT). One or more cranes with booms can be used to lift such tower sections from the SPMT and place them on a vessel for further transport. On the vessel, offshore securing can be used. Once the vessel has arrived at the logistics center, the cranes can be used to lift the tower sections ashore, and the tower sections can be stored again. In this process, the SPMT can be reused. For storage and pre-assembly, the tower sections can be inverted. Specifically, two cranes can be used for inversion. One crane can lift the tower at or near one end of the section, and the other crane can lift the tower at or near the opposite end.

[0007] Sometimes, frames are attached to one or more tower sections that will be stored and / or transported. For example, one frame may be bolted to a flange at a first end of a tower section, and another frame may be bolted to a flange at the opposite end of a tower section. These frames may be substantially flat. Frames may extend over the entire cross-section of the end of the tower section or may extend only partially thereover.

[0008] The frame may additionally or alternatively extend along the length or height of the tower section. This extension may be wholly or partially extended. In this interpretation, the length or height direction is substantially perpendicular to the radial cross-section of the tower section.

[0009] These frames can be picked up and lifted by vehicles (such as self-propelled modular transport equipment (SPMT)) for transporting tower sections from storage centers to installation sites or to vessels. Cranes and sufficiently large and long trailers can also be used for this purpose. Frames can also be picked up and lifted by cranes to place one or more tower sections in an vertical position (to the tower diameter parallel to the ground).

[0010] Instead of placing the frame directly on the ground to store one or more tower sections, it can be placed on supporting elements. These elements help reduce frame damage and level and better support one or more tower sections. For example, four "elephant feet" (two elephant feet at each end of the section) can be used for each tower section or for each group of tower sections to be stored together.

[0011] The use of frames requires time for attaching them to the individual tower sections or groups of tower sections to be stored and / or transported, and then for dismantling the frames at the installation site. Sometimes, one or more frames may be removed before the tower section is inverted, and in any case, all frames are removed after the tower section is inverted. Additionally, a frame suitable for one tower section or tower diameter may not be suitable for other diameters. Proper placement of the support elements used for storing the tower sections also requires time and considerable effort. Summary of the Invention

[0012] In this disclosure, a tool for manipulating a tower section of a wind turbine tower is provided. The tool includes a first wheeled platform, a second wheeled platform, and a frame. The frame has a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion of the frame is attached to the first wheeled platform and configured to support a first end portion of a sling. The second side portion of the frame is attached to the second wheeled platform and configured to support a second end portion of the sling. The first and second wheeled platforms are horizontally separated such that the tower section can be at least partially supported on the sling between the first and second side portions of the frame.

[0013] According to this aspect, the tool has two wheeled platforms for movement on the ground. A frame is mounted on the platforms, thereby setting the distance between the platforms and making the movement of one platform dependent on the movement of the other. The first and second platforms are separate, i.e., the distance between the platforms provided by the frame extending along the connection direction is greater than zero. In practice, depending on the diameter of the tower section and the height of the frame, the distance between the platforms allows portions of the wind turbine tower to be suspended between the platforms. The side portions of the frame are configured to support slings, such that slings attached to the tool can be suspended between the side portions of the frame.

[0014] Such tools enable the efficient picking and transport of sections of wind turbine towers. This saves time in the transport and inversion of wind turbine tower sections compared to the use of storage and / or transport frames. Therefore, transport and inversion are also facilitated by using a single tool rather than at least a transport vehicle and two frames.

[0015] In another aspect, a method for maneuvering a wind turbine tower section is provided. The method includes: supporting a first end of the tower section, placed on one or more supports, by a first sling between a first side portion of a first wheeled platform attached to a first tool and suspended from a frame, and a second side portion of a frame attached to a second wheeled platform; and supporting a second end of the tower section by a second sling between the first side portion of a first wheeled platform attached to a second tool and suspended from a frame, and a second side portion of a frame attached to a second wheeled platform. The method further includes removing one or more supports.

[0016] In yet another aspect, a tool is provided for maneuvering a tower section of a wind turbine tower. The tool includes a first base and a second base configured to move on the ground, and a frame extending between the first base and the second base. Sides of the first frame are supported by the first base, and opposite sides of the second frame are supported by the second base. The first base and the second base are arranged substantially parallel to each other in such a way that the tower section can be supported by the frame between the first base and the second base.

[0017] Throughout this disclosure, a tower section can be understood as a single tower section or as a group of two or more tower sections joined together. For example, a single tower section may be stored and transported individually, or a group of joined tower sections (e.g., three tower sections) may be stored and transported together.

[0018] Technical Solution 1. A tool for manipulating a section of a wind turbine tower, the tool comprising: First-round platform; Second-wheel platform; A frame having a first side portion and a second side portion; The first side portion of the frame is attached to the first wheeled platform and is configured to support the first end portion of the sling. The second side portion of the frame is attached to the second wheeled platform and configured to support the second end portion of the sling; and The first wheeled platform and the second wheeled platform are separated in a substantially horizontal direction, such that the tower section can be supported at least partially on the slings between the first and second sides of the frame.

[0019] Technical Solution 2. The tool according to Technical Solution 1, wherein the first side portion of the frame includes a first hinge, and the second side portion of the frame includes a second hinge for rotating the frame or a portion thereof about a substantially horizontal axis.

[0020] Technical Solution 3. The tool according to Technical Solution 2, wherein the first side portion of the frame includes a top hinge and a bottom hinge, and the second side portion of the frame includes a top hinge and a bottom hinge.

[0021] Technical Solution 4. The tool according to any one of technical solutions 1-3, wherein the first side portion of the frame includes one or more first sling attachment points for attaching a first end of the sling, and the second side portion of the frame includes one or more second sling attachment points for attaching a second end of the sling.

[0022] Technical Solution 5. The tool according to any one of technical solutions 1-4, wherein the first side portion of the frame includes a first top guide, and the second side portion of the frame includes a second top guide, the first top guide and the second top guide being configured to support the sling.

[0023] Technical Solution 6. The tool according to any one of technical solutions 1-5 further includes a sling having a first end configured to be attached to a first side portion of the frame and a second end configured to be attached to a second side portion of the frame, the sling being configured to support a tower section.

[0024] Technical Solution 7. The tool according to Technical Solution 6, wherein the sling is a flat sling.

[0025] Technical Solution 8. The tool according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes one or more clamping elements for clamping the tower section flange.

[0026] Technical Solution 9. A method for manipulating a section of a wind turbine tower, the method comprising: The first end of the tower section previously placed on one or more supports is supported in a first sling between a first side portion of the first wheeled platform attached to the first tool and a second side portion of the frame attached to the second wheeled platform. The second end of the tower section is supported in a second sling between a first side portion of the first wheeled platform attached to the second tool and a second side portion of the frame attached to the second wheeled platform; and Remove one or more of the support members.

[0027] Technical Solution 10. The method according to Technical Solution 9 further includes transporting the tower section.

[0028] Technical Solution 11. The method according to Technical Solution 9 or 10 further includes inverting the tower section by lifting the second end of the tower section while the first end of the tower section is supported by the first tool.

[0029] Technical Solution 12. The method according to Technical Solution 11, wherein inversion includes rotating the first frame side portion and the second frame side portion of the first tool about a substantially horizontal axis.

[0030] Technical Solution 13. The method according to Technical Solution 12 further includes securing the first end of the tower section to be placed below by clamping the tower section flange.

[0031] Technical Solution 14. The method according to any one of technical solutions 9-13, wherein one or more of the support members are brackets, and removing the brackets includes separating the brackets into two parts.

[0032] Technical Solution 15. The method according to any one of technical solutions 9-14 further includes transferring the tower section to a vessel for further transport, and optionally, wherein the tower section is placed on one or more tower section support elements attached to the vessel. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 A perspective view schematically illustrating an example of a wind turbine; Figure 2 Illustration Figure 1 A simplified interior view of an example wind turbine nacelle; Figure 3 The illustration schematically shows an example of a tool used for transporting and inverting a section of a wind turbine tower; Figure 4 Examples of front or rear views schematically illustrating tools used for transporting and inverting wind turbine tower sections; Figure 5 An example of a side view schematically illustrating tools used for transporting and inverting wind turbine tower sections; Figures 6A to 6E The illustration schematically depicts several details of the method used for transporting and optionally inverting wind turbine tower sections; and Figure 7 The illustration schematically depicts an example of a method for maneuvering a section of a wind turbine tower. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The various examples are provided by way of explanation of the invention and not as limitations thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its scope or spirit. For example, a feature partially illustrated or described as one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is intended that the invention cover such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0035] Figure 1 The illustration shows a perspective view of an example wind turbine 160. As shown, the wind turbine 160 includes a tower 170 extending from a support surface 150, a nacelle 161 mounted on the tower 170, and a rotor 115 coupled to the nacelle 161. The rotor 115 includes a rotatable hub 110 and at least one rotor blade 120 coupled to and extending outward from the hub 110. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotor 115 includes three rotor blades 120. However, in alternative embodiments, the rotor 115 may include more or fewer than three rotor blades 120. The individual rotor blades 120 may be spaced apart around the hub 110 to allow the rotor 115 to rotate so that kinetic energy can be converted from wind into usable mechanical energy and subsequently into electrical energy. For example, the hub 110 may be rotatably coupled to a generator 162 located within the nacelle 161. Figure 2 ), to allow the generation of electrical energy.

[0036] Figure 2 Illustration Figure 1 A simplified internal view of an example of the nacelle 161 of a wind turbine 160. As shown, a generator 162 may be disposed within the nacelle 161. Generally, the generator 162 may be coupled to the rotor 115 of the wind turbine 160 to generate electrical power from the rotational energy generated by the rotor 115. For example, the rotor 115 may include a main rotor shaft 163 coupled to a hub 110 for rotating together with the hub 110. The generator 162 may then be coupled to the rotor shaft 163 such that rotation of the rotor shaft 163 drives the generator 162. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the generator 162 includes a generator shaft 166 rotatably coupled to the rotor shaft 163 via a gearbox 164.

[0037] It should be recognized that the rotor shaft 163, gearbox 164 and generator 162 can be generally supported within the nacelle 161 by a support frame or base plate 165 positioned on top of the wind turbine tower 170.

[0038] The nacelle 161 can be rotatably coupled to the tower 170 via the yaw system 20 in a manner that allows the nacelle 161 to rotate about a yaw axis YA, or there may be other methods that position the rotor at a desired angle to the wind. If the yaw system 20 is present, such a system will typically include a yaw bearing having two bearing members configured to rotate relative to the other. The tower 170 is coupled to one of the bearing members, and the base plate or support frame 165 of the nacelle 161 is coupled to the other bearing member. The yaw system 20 includes a ring gear 21 and a plurality of yaw actuators 22, each yaw actuator 22 having a motor 23, a gearbox 24, and a pinion 25 for meshing with the ring gear 21 to rotate one of the bearing members relative to the other.

[0039] One aspect of this disclosure provides a tool for manipulating (e.g., transporting and / or inverting) a tower section of a wind turbine tower. The tool includes a first wheeled platform, a second wheeled platform, and a frame. The frame has a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion of the frame is attached to the first wheeled platform and configured to support a first end portion of a sling. The second side portion of the frame is attached to the second wheeled platform and configured to support a second end portion of the sling. The first and second wheeled platforms are separated horizontally along the frame such that the tower section can be at least partially supported on the sling between the first and second side portions of the frame.

[0040] Two similar examples of this tool can be found in Figure 3 and Figure 4 I saw it in the middle. Figure 3 A perspective view of tool 300 and wind turbine tower section 175 supported by tool 300 is shown. Figure 4 A front view of another tool 300 supporting the wind turbine tower section 175 is shown. Tool 300 includes a first wheel platform 305 and a second wheel platform 310. The first wheel platform 305 and the second wheel platform 310 are separated by a distance of 315.

[0041] The tool 300 also includes a frame 320. The frame 320 includes a first side portion 325, a second side portion 330, and a center portion 335. The center portion 335 connects the first side portion and the second side portion and bridges the gap between the two wheeled platforms. The frame 320 also has a top portion 340 and a bottom portion 345. The frame 320 separates the first wheeled platform 305 and the second wheeled platform 310 along a substantially horizontal direction 405. The frame 320 also extends along a vertical direction 410. The tool 300 is movable on the ground along a transport direction 400. Direction 405 may also be referred to as a lateral horizontal direction, and direction 410 may be referred to as a vertical direction 410.

[0042] Frame 320 may be longer along the horizontal direction 405 than along the vertical direction 410, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As in the example. In other words, the frame can be longer than its height. The length 350 of the frame 320 can be, for example, between 5 meters and 15 meters, and the height 355 of the frame can be, for example, between 5 meters and 15 meters, and the width of the frame 320 can be between 2 meters and 6 meters. In other examples, the frame 320 can be longer in the vertical direction 310, and thus the length of the frame 320 can extend in the vertical direction 310 rather than in the lateral horizontal direction 405.

[0043] In some examples, the first platform 305 and the second platform 310 may be 4-13 meters apart.

[0044] Each component of a wheeled platform may include a generally flat base and multiple wheels, such as between eight and twenty. Groups of wheels may be arranged on a common axle. Each component of a wheeled platform may include an independent propulsion mechanism. The wheeled platform may be a SPMT (Special Purpose Vehicle).

[0045] A first side portion 325 of the frame is attached to a first wheeled platform 305, and a second side portion 330 of the frame is attached to a second wheeled platform 310. Attachment may be made, for example, by nuts and bolts. The first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame may extend in a vertical direction 410. The first side portion 325 of the frame may include a first substantially vertical beam 360. Similarly, the second side portion 330 of the frame may include a second substantially vertical beam 365.

[0046] The first side portion 325 of the frame may include one or more inclined additional beams or supports 385. Alternatively or additionally, the second side portion 330 of the frame may include one or more inclined additional beams or supports 385. The inclined additional beams 385 may extend from the upper portion of the first vertical beam 360 (see [link to original text]). Figure 3 ) or the middle part (see Figure 4 It extends to the first wheel platform 305 or to the base beam 390.

[0047] One or more of the additional base beams 390 can be as follows Figure 3 and Figure 4 It extends in a direction substantially parallel to the lateral horizontal direction 405, as shown in the middle. One or more of the additional base beams 390 may be as follows: Figure 3 The frame extends in a direction substantially parallel to the horizontal transport direction 400, as shown in the diagram. One or more additional base beams 390 may extend in any other direction. The additional beams 385, 390 may help stabilize and reinforce the first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame.

[0048] The first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame are respectively configured to support the first end portion 420 and the second end portion 425 of the sling 415. The end portions 420 and 425 of the sling can be understood as portions of the sling 415 near the ends 430 and 435 of the sling 415. The ends 430 and 435 of the sling 415 may be included in the end portions 420 and 425 of the sling 415. The first side portion 325 of the frame may include suitable sling attachments.

[0049] In some examples, the first side portion 325 of the frame may include one or more first sling attachment points 450 for attaching a first end 430 of a sling 415, and the second side portion 330 of the frame may include one or more second attachment points 455 for attaching a second end 435 of a sling 415. The one or more sling attachment points 450, 455 may be as follows: Figure 4 As shown, it is a D-shaped ring.

[0050] Several sling attachment points 450 and 455 at different heights in the side portions 325 and 330 of the frame allow for adjustment of the slings 415 and the degree to which the slings are suspended between the side portions 325 and 330 of the frame. Therefore, tower sections 175 of different diameters can be transported using a single tool 300.

[0051] A first side portion 325 of the frame 320 (e.g., a vertical beam 360) may include a sling top guide 440; and a second side portion 330 of the frame 320 (e.g., a vertical beam 365) may include a second top guide 445. The first top guide 440 and the second top guide 445 are configured to support the sling 415.

[0052] One or more sling attachment points 450, 455 and tops 440, 450 of the first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame that support and reorient the slings may be located in a plane including a vertical direction 410 and a lateral horizontal direction 405. This can help stabilize and better support the tower section 175.

[0053] exist Figure 4 In this configuration, sling attachment points 450 and 455 are located in the inclined additional beam 385. However, sling attachment points 450 and 455 may be located in other locations on the side portions 325 and 330 of the frame. For example, sling attachment points 450 and 455 may be located in the vertical beams 360 and 365 of the side portions 325 and 330 of the frame. Sling attachment points 450 and 455 may also be located on the first wheeled platform 305 and / or the second wheeled platform 310.

[0054] The sling attachment may be positioned relatively close to the base of the wheeled platform. The sling end may extend from the attachment point on the top 440, 445 of the first frame side portion 325 and the second frame side portion 330.

[0055] The central portion 335 of the frame may include a truss structure having one or more beams connecting the first side portion 320 and the second side portion 330 of the frame. For example, the central portion 335 of the frame may include a top lateral beam 370 and a bottom lateral beam 375. These beams 370, 375 may extend in a lateral horizontal direction 405. These beams 370, 375 may be bolted to vertical beams 360 and 365.

[0056] The truss structure of the central portion 335 of the frame may include vertical members or diagonal members of beams and beams 380. Figure 3 In this configuration, a central inclined beam 380 connects lateral horizontal beams 370 and 375. In other examples, one or more central inclined beams 380 may connect a first side portion 325 of the frame and a second side portion 220 of the frame. A central inclined beam 380 may exist in addition to or as an alternative to lateral horizontal beams 370 and 375.

[0057] It should be noted that, Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this configuration, the central top beam 370 may not be located directly above the central bottom beam 375. Such a beam 370 may be displaced along the transport horizontal direction 400 and away from the sling attachment points 450, 455 to allow the sling 115 to be suspended in the plane formed by the vertical direction 410 and the lateral horizontal direction 405.

[0058] The central top beam 370 can limit the displacement of tower section 175 when supported by slings 115, and thus can help stabilize tower section 174 during transport.

[0059] The diagonal beams 380 may have different inclination angles relative to the lateral horizontal direction 405; for example, each inclined beam 380 may have an inclination of 30º, 45º, or 60º. The inclined beams 380 may also have different inclination angles than the other inclined beams 380. For example, one inclined beam 380 may have an angle of 45º relative to the lateral horizontal direction 405, and another inclined beam may have an angle of 125º relative to the direction 405.

[0060] In some examples, frame 320 may be made of steel. Frame 320 may be formed as a single piece, or may comprise two or more pieces or beams connected to each other.

[0061] Figure 5 This schematically illustrates a side view of tool 300. In some examples, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As described above, tool 300 may include hinges 460, 461, 465, and 466. The first side portion 325 of the frame may include at least first hinges 460 and 461, and the second side portion 330 of the frame may include at least second hinges 465 and 466 for rotating the frame 320 or a portion thereof about an axis substantially parallel to the horizontal direction 405 of the frame. Figure 5 In the middle, arrow 470 indicates the movement of frame 320 or a portion of frame 320 when rotation occurs about an axis in the lateral horizontal direction 405.

[0062] This facilitates the inversion of tower section 175 once it has been transported to the installation site. Furthermore, instead of using two cranes (i.e., a tail crane and a main crane) for inverting tower section 175, only the main crane can be used. Compared to using two cranes, it is easier to control the movement of tower section 175 during inversion using the tool 300 and the crane.

[0063] The hinge may be located at the bottom of the first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame. Alternatively, the hinge may be located at the top of the first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame. For example, one or more hinges may be provided for each vertical beam 360, 365 of the side portions 325, 550 of the frame 320.

[0064] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Two hinges are schematically shown for each side portion of the frame. In this example, the first side portion 325 of the frame (specifically, the first vertical beam 360) includes a top hinge 461 and a bottom hinge 460. Similarly, the second side portion 330 of the frame (specifically, the second vertical beam 365) includes a top hinge 466 and a bottom hinge 465.

[0065] Bottom hinges 460 and 465 can be used to initiate the rotation of tower section 175 at the start of the inversion process, while top hinges 461 and 466 can be used subsequently to rotate tower section 175 near the end of the inversion process. In some other examples, only top hinges 461 and 466 can be used to rotate tower section 175 during inversion.

[0066] In some examples, tool 300 may include sling 415 having a first end 430 configured to be attached to a first side portion 325 of a frame and a second end 435 configured to be attached to a second side portion 330 of a frame, sling 415 being configured to support tower section 175.

[0067] Figure 3 and Figure 4A tool 300 including a sling 415 is shown. A first end 430 of the sling 415 may be attached to a first sling attachment point 450, and the opposite second end 435 of the sling 415 may be attached to a second sling attachment point 455.

[0068] The first end portion 420 of the sling 415 may pass over the top guide 440 of the first side portion 325 of the frame 320, and the second end portion 425 of the sling 415 may pass over the top guide 445 of the second side portion 330 of the frame 330, thereby supporting the sling and reorienting it. The ends 430, 435 of the sling 415 may include eyelets that can be attached to, for example, D-rings via hooks.

[0069] Therefore, the sling 415 can be suspended between the first side portion 325 and the second side portion 330 of the frame. The sling 415 can also be suspended between the first wheeled platform 305 and the second wheeled platform 310. Attaching the sling 415 to the higher attachment point 450 or the lower attachment point 455 of the frame side portions 325 and 330 allows the sling 415 to be suspended more or less, that is, closer or further from the ground.

[0070] The sling 415 may have a length between 10 m and 60 m. The sling 415 may be flat. In some examples, the sling 415 may be made of polyester or nylon. In some other examples, the sling may be made of leather or metal (such as steel).

[0071] In some examples, tool 300 may include one or more tower section flange clamps 475. (As can be seen in...) Figure 4 As seen in the image, these clamps 475 can be attached to the frame 320, for example, to the central portion 335 of the frame 320, and these clamps 475 can be retracted. Once the wind turbine tower section 175 is placed on the sling 415, the fasteners 475 can move toward the tower section to secure it. Figure 4 In the example, two clamping members are movable in the lateral horizontal direction 405, and one clamping member is movable in the vertical direction 410. The tower section flange clamping member 475 can clamp or hold the inner surface of the tower section 175. The stability of the tower section 175 can be enhanced. In some examples, the clamping member 475 may be used only to secure the tower section 185 when inverted.

[0072] Figure 4 The example also shows two lifting lugs 483, lifting devices (e.g., main cranes) (see Figure 6E It can be attached to the lifting lug 483.

[0073] Another aspect of the invention provides a method 500 for manipulating a wind turbine tower section 170. Method 500 may use any two tools 300 according to the examples described above. Manipulation may specifically include transporting and inverting the tower section. Manipulation may also include picking up, lifting, and / or storing the tower section.

[0074] Figures 6A to 6E Some details of the method are illustrated schematically. The orientation of the wind turbine tower section 175 and one or more tools 300 is indicated by directional arrows 400, 405, and 410. 400 corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the tower section. 405 corresponds to the lateral or width direction of the tower section. 410 corresponds to the vertical direction.

[0075] The method includes, at step 510, a first end of a tower section 175 supported by a first sling 415 placed on one or more supports 610 for storage, the first sling 415 being suspended between a first side portion 325 of a frame attached to a first wheeled platform 305 of a tool 300 and a second side portion 330 of a frame attached to a second wheeled platform 310.

[0076] The support 610 may be a support element specially configured for storage.

[0077] As in Figure 6A As schematically illustrated, for storage, tower section 175 can be placed on support 610, for example, on two supports. A first tool 300 with sling 415 can access a first end of tower section 175 such that the first end of tower section 175 is located between a first side portion 325 and a second side portion 330 of the frame 320 of tool 300. This is in Figure 6B The diagram is schematically illustrated and can also be found in... Figure 3 and Figure 4 I saw it in the middle.

[0078] The sling 415 can lift, for example, slightly lift, the first end of the tower section 175. This can be done by adjusting the distance of the platform 305 of the first wheeled platform from the ground. For example, the platform can be hydraulically adjusted vertically 410 to lift the end of the first tower section. The first wheeled platform 305 may be a self-propelled modular transport device (SPMT). The sling 415 may be adapted to the profile of the end of the tower section, such as, for example, in... Figure 6B As shown in the diagram. Alternatively, lifting can occur by stretching or pulling the sling.

[0079] The method further includes, at step 520, a second end of the tower section 175 being supported by a second sling 415, the second sling 415 being suspended between a first side portion 325 of the frame attached to a first wheeled platform 305 of the second tool 300 and a second side portion 330 of the frame attached to a second wheeled platform 310.

[0080] The second end of the wind turbine section 175 can be supported in the same manner as the first end of the wind turbine section 175. The tool frame 320 (specifically, the central portion 336 of the frame 320) can be coupled to the tower section flange 480 (see...). Figure 4 This restricts the movement of tower section 175 along the transport horizontal direction 400, and thus helps to stabilize tower section 175 during its transport.

[0081] The method further includes removing one or more storage support elements 610 at frame 530. Since the support elements are no longer needed to support the tower section 175, the support elements can be moved from below the tower section 175.

[0082] One or more operators can move the support element 610 away from the tower section 175. If the support element 610 is a bracket 611, removing the bracket may include separating the bracket 611 into two parts. This is in Figure 6C The diagram is schematically illustrated. The bracket 611 may include a first portion 612 (e.g., the first half of the bracket) and a second portion 613 (e.g., the second half of the bracket) connected to each other, for example, by pins. The respective bracket portions 612, 613 may be removed, for example, by a forklift that moves in a laterally horizontal direction 405.

[0083] Method 500 may further include: at frame 540, a transport tower section 175. Since the two tools 300 support the tower section 175 and the support 610 storing the tower section 175 does not obstruct the tools 300, the first wheeled platform 305 and the second wheeled platform 310 of the first tool 300 and the first wheeled platform 305 and the second wheeled platform 310 of the second tool 300 can move the tower section 175. This movement can be, for example, along the transport direction 400; however, movement along any other horizontal direction (i.e., in the plane formed by directions 400 and 405) is possible. Figure 6D This schematically shows that tower section 175 is being transported by two tools 300, 300' along the transport direction 400.

[0084] Using tools 300 and 300' facilitates the handling and transportation of the wind turbine tower section 175 and makes the handling and transportation of the wind turbine tower section 175 more efficient.

[0085] Method 500 may further include inverting tower section 175 by lifting one tower section end while the other tower section end is supported by tool 300. Figure 6E This scenario is illustrated schematically. Once the wind turbine tower section 175 has been transported to the inverted location by two tools 300, 300', the end of the tower section can be held by a lifting device (e.g., a crane). The tools previously supporting that end may or may not be removed. Figure 6D and Figure 6E In comparison, it can be seen that tool 300' has been removed, and, for example, crane rope 615 is lifting the end of the tower section, which will remain on top after inversion. Tool 300 can achieve the inversion of tower section 175 in a more stable and controlled manner than when using, for example, a tail crane and a main crane.

[0086] In some examples, inversion may include rotating a first side portion 325 and a second side portion 330 of the frame of a tool 300 supporting one end of the tower section about an axis substantially parallel to the horizontal direction 405. The tool 300 may facilitate placing the tower section 175 in a vertical position or near a vertical position (see [link to documentation]). Figure 5 and Figure 6D One or more hinges 460, 461, 465, 466 can be used for each side of the frame 325, 330. This also facilitates the inversion of the tower section compared to using a tail crane and a main crane.

[0087] In some examples, the method may further include securing the tower section to be placed at the bottom by clamping the flange 480 of the tower section. Clamping element 475 or other clamping elements may be able to be engaged from tool 300 (e.g., from the center portion 335 of the frame of tool 300 (see...)). Figure 4 Extension and retraction. At least the inner surface of tower section 175 may be clamped before another tower end portion is lifted for inversion. For example, tool 300 may include one or more fasteners 475 that may clamp the bottom 485 of tower section 175 in FIG. 6 before the rope 615 lifts the top 490 of tower section 175 or even before the rope is attached to the top 490 of tower section 175. Control and stabilization of the tower section can be enhanced by using clamping elements 475.

[0088] In some examples, the method may further include transferring tower section 175 to a vessel for further transport. This step may be performed if, for example, tower section 175 is manufactured or stored somewhere, and tower section 175 must be transported by sea to the installation or inversion location. In some examples, tower section 175 may be lifted from tools 300, 300' to do so.

[0089] Under such circumstances, tower section 175 can be as follows: Figure 6D The tower section 175 is positioned as described above, and one or more lifting devices (e.g., two cranes) can lift the tower section 175. In some examples, two slings may be used to lift the tower section. The tower section 175 can then be positioned and secured to the ship, for example, the tower section 175 may be attached to the ship's deck.

[0090] To support and secure the tower section 175 to the vessel, one or more support elements 610 may be attached to the tower section before it is placed on the vessel, for example, while supported by tools 300, 300' and before it is lifted. Before the tower section 175 is lifted and placed on the vessel deck, one or more brackets 611 (e.g., two brackets) may be secured (e.g., bolted) to the tower section 175.

[0091] Tower section 175 may alternatively be placed on one or more support elements 610 attached to the vessel. One or more brackets 611 may be welded to the vessel deck, for example, and the tower section may be placed on the brackets 611. Additional fastening of tower section 175 to the vessel deck may be provided independently of whether the tower section support device 610 is attached to tower section 175 or to the vessel.

[0092] Instead of lifting tower section 175 for placement on the vessel, a roll-on / roll-off (RoRo) method can be used.

[0093] In some other examples, tower section 175 can be transported to the vessel by tools 300, 300' without the need for lifting devices and lifting ropes 615.

[0094] Typically, depending on the logistics of the wind farm and the manufacturing logistics, (multiple) tower sections may first be transported to a logistics center for later transport to individual locations. If tower section 175 will be inverted on shore, the method may further include removing the tower section from the vessel and transporting the tower section on two tools 300, 300'.

[0095] If the tower section 175 is located on a support 610 on the vessel, the tower section 175 can be lifted to remove it from the vessel. In some examples, the tower section 175 may first be placed on one or more supports 610 for temporary storage and then picked up by two tools 300, 300', as already mentioned. Figures 6A to 6D As explained, the tower can then be transported to the installation site and can be inverted, as per the explanation. Figure 6E As explained.

[0096] If the two tools 300 and 300' have moved tower section 175 to the ship's deck, then the tools 300 and 300' can similarly move tower section 175 off the ship.

[0097] If tower section 175 is to be transported offshore and placed on support element 610 on the ship, tower section 175 can be lifted from the ship's deck by one or more lifting devices (such as cranes). In this case, attaching support element 610 to the ship facilitates the process of attaching support element 610 to tower section 175.

[0098] If tower section 175 has been transported to the vessel by tools 300, 300', then tower section 175 can be as per the relevant provisions. Figure 6E But the explanation is reversed.

[0099] Another aspect of the invention provides a different tool for transporting and inverting tower sections 175 of a wind turbine tower 170. The tool 300 includes a first base 305 and a second base 310 configured to move on the ground. The tool 300 further includes a frame 320 extending between the first base 305 and the second base 310, with the first frame side 325 supported by the first base 305 and the opposite second frame side 330 supported by the second base 330. The first and second bases are arranged substantially parallel to each other such that the tower section can be supported by the frame between the first and second bases. The frame 320 may be configured to allow slings 415 attached to the tool 300 to suspend between the first frame side 305 and the second frame side 310.

[0100] The first base 305 and the second base 310 may have a substantially flat upper portion that is mounted to a moving element (such as a wheel). Each of the first base 305 and the second base 310 may be any SPMT that can have a suitable drive or propulsion system.

[0101] As the frame 320 extends between the first base 305 and the second base 310, the bases 305 and 310 separate along the direction 405 along which the frame extends. The frame 320 may include multiple beams and may be made of steel. The frame 320 may be bolted to the first movable base 305 and the second movable base 310.

[0102] A sling 415, configured to support the end tower section 175, can be attached to a tool 300. One end 430 of the sling 415 can be attached to a first frame side 325, and the other end 435 of the sling 415 can be attached to a second frame side 330. Alternatively, the first end 430 of the sling can be attached to a first base 305, and the opposite end 435 of the sling 415 can be attached to a second base 310.

[0103] The first frame side 325 may include two or more sling fasteners 450 at different heights, and the second frame side 330 may include two or more sling fasteners 455 at different heights. Once attached to the tool 300, the sling 415 can be suspended between the first frame side 325 and the second frame side 330, and optionally also between the first movable base 305 and the second movable base.

[0104] In some examples, the first frame side 325 may include at least first hinges 460, 461, and the second frame side 330 may include at least a second hinge 465 for rotating the frame about a substantially horizontal axis 405. In some examples, the frame 320 may include one or more retractable clamping devices 475 for securing the wind turbine tower section flange 480 to the tool 300. Regarding... Figures 3 to 5 The explanations provided are generally applicable to this tool. Similarly, such a tool can also be used in method 500 as described above.

[0105] Although only a number of examples have been disclosed herein, other alternatives, modifications, uses, and / or equivalents of these examples are possible. Furthermore, all possible combinations of the described examples are covered. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to the specific examples, but should be determined solely by a careful reading of the following claims.

Claims

1. A tool (300) for manipulating a tower section (175) of a wind turbine tower (170), said tool comprising: First wheel platform (305); Second wheel platform (310); A frame (320) having a first side portion (325) and a second side portion (330); The first side portion (325) of the frame is attached to the first wheeled platform (305) and is configured to support the first end portion (420) of the sling (415); The second side portion (330) of the frame is attached to the second wheeled platform (310) and configured to support the second end portion (425) of the sling (415); The first wheeled platform (305) and the second wheeled platform (310) are separated (315) along a substantially horizontal direction (405) such that the tower section (175) can be supported at least partially on the sling (415) between the first side portion (325) and the second side portion (330) of the frame. as well as The first side portion (325) of the frame includes a first hinge (461), and the second side portion (330) of the frame includes a second hinge (466) for rotating the portion of the frame about a substantially horizontal axis.

2. The tool according to claim 1, wherein, The first side portion (325) of the frame includes a top hinge and a bottom hinge, and the second side portion (330) of the frame includes a top hinge and a bottom hinge.

3. The tool according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The first side portion (325) of the frame includes one or more first sling attachment points (450) for attaching a first end (430) of the sling, and the second side portion (330) of the frame includes one or more second sling attachment points (455) for attaching a second end (435) of the sling.

4. The tool according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The first side portion (325) of the frame includes a first top guide (440), and the second side portion (330) of the frame includes a second top guide (445), the first top guide (440) and the second top guide (445) being configured to support the sling (415).

5. The tool according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising a sling (415) having a first end (430) configured to be attached to a first side portion (325) of the frame and a second end (435) configured to be attached to a second side portion (330) of the frame, the sling (415) being configured to support a tower section (175).

6. The tool according to claim 5, wherein, The sling (415) is a flat sling.

7. The tool according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising one or more clamping elements (475) for clamping the tower section flange (480).

8. A method (500) for maneuvering a wind turbine tower section (175), the method comprising: The first end of the tower section previously placed on one or more supports is supported (510) in a first sling between a first side portion of a first wheeled platform of a first tool (300) attached to a tool according to any one of claims 1-7 and a second side portion of a second wheeled platform of the frame attached to the first tool (300). The second end of the tower section is supported (520) in a second sling between a first side portion of a first wheeled platform attached to a second tool (300') constructed as a tool according to any one of claims 1-7 and a second side portion of the second wheeled platform attached to the second tool (300') of the frame; and Remove (530) one or more of the support members (610).

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising transporting (540) the tower section (175).

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising inverting the tower section (175) by lifting the second end of the tower section while the first end of the tower section is supported by the first tool (300).

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, Inversion includes rotating the first and second side portions of the first tool about a substantially horizontal axis (405).

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising securing the first end (485) of the tower section to be placed below by clamping the tower section flange (480).

13. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, One or more of the support members (610) are brackets (611), and removing the brackets includes separating the brackets into two parts (612, 613).

14. The method of claim 8 or 9, further comprising transferring the tower section to a vessel for further transport.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The tower section is placed on one or more tower section support elements attached to the vessel.

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