Connection components

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupling assembly. A torque transmission coupling assembly (1) for a wind turbine, configured to rotatably couple a first coupling part (2) to a second coupling part (3), wherein the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) are configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis (10) of the torque transmission coupling assembly (1), and characterized in that the torque transmission coupling assembly (1) comprises a torque transmission ring (4) and a compression ring (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a torque transmitting coupling assembly for a wind turbine, the torque transmitting coupling assembly being configured to rotatably couple a first coupling part to a second coupling part. The present invention also relates to a method for assembling a torque transmitting coupling assembly for coupling a first coupling part to a second coupling part. Background Art

[0002] Wind turbines are increasingly being used to generate electrical energy. A wind turbine consists of a tower and a nacelle mounted on the tower, with a hub attached to the nacelle. A rotor is mounted on the hub and coupled to a generator. Multiple blades extend from the rotor. These blades are oriented so that wind passing over the blades rotates the rotor, driving the generator. The rotational energy of the blades is transferred to the generator, which then converts the mechanical energy into electricity and transmits the electricity to the power grid.

[0003] The drivetrain of a wind turbine includes shaft-to-shaft or hub-to-shaft couplings (also known as couplings) to connect drivetrain components. For example, the drivetrain's main shaft, between the main bearing and the gearbox, is coupled to the gearbox input shaft or the gearbox's planetary carrier to transfer torque from the main shaft to the gearbox. This coupling must be suitable for transmitting the torque of the wind turbine's drivetrain, and not all couplings known from prior art (e.g., in the automotive industry) are suitable for transmitting the torque generated by a wind turbine.

[0004] Various shaft-to-shaft or hub-to-shaft couplings are known from the prior art. For example, shrink disks can be used for solid shaft arrangements. Alternatively, bolted joints with friction pads can be used in couplings. The use of friction pads reduces the risk of slippage in the coupling components because they increase the coefficient of static friction between the two coupled parts. For example, coated steel pads with partially embedded diamonds can be used as friction pads. The friction pad is then placed between the two coupling components of a shaft-to-shaft or hub-to-shaft coupling, where the diamonds press into the surfaces of the coupling components, creating a microform fit that significantly increases friction between the coupled components. The use of friction pads allows for the transmission of higher torques with less risk of slippage and is a compact solution, but they are very expensive due to the materials used. Friction pads are used in the automotive industry to connect drivetrain shafts. However, their use in wind turbines is very expensive because the shafts have much larger diameters and transmit significantly larger torques than in the automotive industry. Furthermore, the microform fit makes the friction pads difficult to remove. Alternatively, other friction couplings, such as clamping groups, can be used, but these are also difficult to assemble and disassemble.

[0005] Torque transmission couplings for wind turbines are also known from the prior art. Document US 2019 / 0048938 A1 discloses a torque transmission coupling between two rotatable parts by means of a form-fitting coupling between the two rotatable parts and a compression ring that presses the two rotatable parts together. However, in this coupling, the second rotatable part is arranged at the outer circumferential surface of the first rotatable part. As a result, the second rotatable part is oversized, so that the first rotatable part fits inside the second rotatable part at the coupling area. In addition, the torque transmission area of ​​the coupling is limited by the overlapping surfaces of the two rotatable parts.

[0006] Current developments in wind turbine technology are trending toward increasing the size of wind turbines in order to capture more wind energy, with longer blades and taller towers. Due to the increased size of wind turbines and the higher loads generated by wind turbines, shafts and couplings in the drivetrain transmit higher torques and use shafts with wider diameters.

[0007] As the drivetrains of newly developed wind turbines continue to increase in size, oversized coupling components for torque-transmitting couplings, such as those disclosed in US 2019 / 0048938A1, are disadvantageous. The coupling technology of the drivetrain section should not be a limiting factor in the dimensioning of the drivetrain components. In other words, the coupling should be suitable for providing a compact solution for coupling multiple shafts or a single shaft to the hub without having to modify the dimensions of the coupling components. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a torque transmitting coupling assembly which overcomes the problems known from the prior art.

[0009] This is achieved by a torque transmitting coupling assembly according to claim 1 and a method for assembling a torque transmitting coupling assembly according to claim 15 .

[0010] According to the present invention, a torque transmitting coupling assembly for a wind turbine is configured to rotatably couple a first coupling part to a second coupling part. The first coupling part and the second coupling part are thus rotatable parts, such as hubs or shafts.

[0011] According to the present invention, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the torque transmitting coupling assembly. For example, if the first coupling part and the second coupling part are shafts, both shafts rotate about the longitudinal axis of the torque transmitting coupling assembly, which is also the longitudinal axis of the two shafts.

[0012] According to the present invention, a torque transmission coupling assembly includes a torque transmission ring and a compression ring, wherein a first coupling surface of a first coupling portion abuts against a third coupling surface of the torque transmission ring, wherein a second coupling surface of a second coupling portion abuts against a fourth coupling surface of the torque transmission ring, wherein torque is transmitted from the first coupling surface of the first coupling portion to the third coupling surface of the torque transmission ring, and from the fourth coupling surface of the torque transmission ring to the second coupling surface of the second coupling portion in a torque transmission region of the torque transmission coupling assembly. The torque transmission region is a region in which torque is transmitted from one component to another.

[0013] The purpose of the torque transmission ring is therefore to transmit torque between the first and second coupling parts. To this end, the torque transmission ring is an intermediate component between the first and second coupling parts in the torque path. The torque transmission ring is coupled to both the first coupling part and the second coupling part.

[0014] According to the present invention, the compression ring is configured to press the torque transmission ring against the first coupling portion and / or the second coupling portion. By pressing against the first coupling portion and / or the second coupling portion, torque transmission between the first coupling portion and the torque transmission ring and / or between the torque transmission ring and the second coupling portion is enhanced, and slippage is avoided.

[0015] According to the invention, the torque transmission ring and the compression ring are located in the torque transmission region. This allows a compact arrangement of the torque transmission coupling assembly.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque is transmitted radially from the first coupling part to the torque transmission ring, then axially within the torque transmission ring, and finally radially from the torque transmission ring to the second coupling part.

[0017] Thus, neither the first nor the second coupling part needs to be oversized for coupling both coupling parts with the torque transmission ring.Radial and axial torque transmission allows having the same diameter of the first and second coupling parts and enabling torque to be transmitted from the first coupling part to the second coupling part.

[0018] For example, the first and second connecting parts can be shafts having substantially the same outer diameter, and the torque transfer ring can be arranged on the outer diameter of both the first and second connecting parts so that the torque is first transferred radially from the first connecting part to the torque transfer ring, then transferred axially within the torque transfer ring, and finally transferred radially from the torque transfer ring to the second connecting part.

[0019] Alternatively, if the first and second coupling parts have different outer diameters, the thickness of the torque transfer ring may be varied to have contact with both the first and second coupling parts.Varying the thickness of the torque transfer ring is a cheaper option than oversizing the first or second coupling shaft.

[0020] The term "radial torque transmission" refers to torque that is transmitted substantially in a radial direction, thus from a first component to a second component that is located at a different radial distance from the axis than the first component, or is transmitted radially within a component. Similarly, the term "axial torque transmission" refers to torque that is transmitted substantially parallel to the axis. The reference axis is the longitudinal axis of the torque-transmitting coupling assembly.

[0021] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the third and fourth coupling surfaces of the torque transfer ring are adjacent to each other. For example, both the third and fourth coupling surfaces can be arranged on the inner surface of the torque transfer ring. This allows for a compact arrangement of the torque transfer coupling assembly.

[0022] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque transfer ring is loosely coupled to the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part before the compression ring is installed. Loose coupling means that there is a tolerance between the third and fourth coupling surfaces of the torque transfer ring and the first and second coupling surfaces of the first and second coupling parts, respectively, so that the torque transfer ring does not lock the alignment freedom of the first and second coupling parts, thereby avoiding any concentricity misalignment caused by a rigid coupling. Once the torque transfer ring is correctly placed, the compression ring can be installed, which locks the coupling and presses the third and fourth coupling surfaces of the torque transfer ring against the first and second coupling surfaces of the first and second coupling parts, respectively. At this point, due to the compression force exerted by the compression ring, the coupling is no longer loose and there is no tolerance between the third and fourth coupling surfaces of the torque transfer ring and the first and second coupling surfaces of the first and second coupling parts, respectively.

[0023] One advantage of the loose coupling between the torque transmission ring and the first and second coupling parts is that tolerance errors of the form-fitting coupling can be compensated by the flexibility of the ring.

[0024] In particular, before the compression ring is installed, the torque transmission ring is loosely coupled to the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part in a radial direction. This is particularly advantageous because the compression ring presses the torque transmission ring against the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the torque transmission coupling assembly. Consequently, the radially exerted compressive force of the compression ring ensures that, in the assembled state of the torque transmission coupling assembly, radial tolerances between the torque transmission ring and the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part are suppressed, which facilitates assembly of the torque transmission coupling assembly.

[0025] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque transmission ring is made of a rigid material, such as steel. Steel has a certain degree of flexibility and elasticity, allowing the torque transmission ring to be compressed by the compression ring to lock the torque transmission ring to the first and second coupling parts. Furthermore, the rigid material can transmit the torque of the wind turbine's drivetrain without being damaged due to the material's rigidity. Plastics such as polyamide can also be used as the rigid material.

[0026] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque transmission ring is made of an elastic material, such as rubber. One advantage of using an elastic material for the torque transmission ring is that tolerances of the form-fit connection can be compensated for by the flexibility and elasticity of the torque transmission ring. However, the torque that can be transmitted through such an elastic material without damaging the torque transmission ring is lower than that of a torque transmission ring made of steel.

[0027] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque transmission ring is made of a rigid material with a coating of an elastic material, for example a steel ring with a rubber coating. This allows high torque transmission without damaging the torque transmission ring, and in addition, the elastic material is flexible to compensate for concentricity misalignment between the torque transmission ring and the first and second coupling parts.

[0028] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the ring portion of the torque transmission ring is made of a rigid material, and the third and fourth coupling surfaces are made of an elastic material.

[0029] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a torque transmission ring is arranged at an outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part.

[0030] By arranging the torque transfer ring at the outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part, neither the first nor the second coupling part needs to be over-dimensioned in order for the torque transfer coupling assembly to transfer torque from the first coupling part to the second coupling part via the torque transfer ring. This is a major advantage over prior art techniques in which the second coupling part needs to fit within the first coupling part in order to radially transfer torque from the first coupling part to the second coupling part.

[0031] Even if the coupling of the torque transmission ring to the first coupling part comprises serrations, splines, or teeth, wherein torque is transmitted within the coupling portion of the two components via surfaces extending in the axial and radial directions of the serrations, splines, or teeth, the torque is also transmitted in the radial direction because the torque transmission ring is arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part. Therefore, the torque transmission ring is arranged radially outside the first coupling part.

[0032] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a torque transmission ring is arranged at an outer circumferential surface of the second coupling portion.Thus, torque is transmitted from the torque transmission ring to the second coupling portion in a radial direction.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a torque transmission ring is arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part and on the outer circumferential surface of the second coupling part. Therefore, the torque is first transmitted radially outward from the first coupling part to the torque transmission ring, then axially within the torque transmission ring, and finally radially inward from the torque transmission ring to the second coupling part.

[0034] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a compression ring is arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring. This allows for a compact arrangement of the torque transmission coupling assembly. Furthermore, the compression ring can be contracted or squeezed radially inwardly so that it can press the torque transmission ring against the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part.

[0035] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the compression ring is a compression ring of an elastic material and is configured to be heated so as to slide the compression ring over the outer circumferential surface of the torque transfer ring. Thus, the compression ring can be heated to more easily slide over the top of the torque transfer ring, and once it is positioned in the correct position, it cools and compresses, thereby reducing its diameter and pressing the torque transfer ring against the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part. This prevents the torque transfer ring from loosening, thereby supporting correct placement of the torque transfer ring and enhancing torque transmission from the first coupling part to the torque transfer ring and from the torque transfer ring to the second coupling part.

[0036] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the compression ring is a compression ring made of an elastic material, wherein the compression ring expands, for example, by applying a radial force, so that the compression ring can be installed on the outer circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring. Once it is installed in the correct position, the compression ring is released so that it presses against the torque transmission ring, thereby transmitting the radial force and pressing the torque transmission ring against the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part.

[0037] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the compression ring is a shrink disk. This shrink disk acts as a compression coupling and applies a compressive force to create a shear connection between the first and / or second coupling parts on one side and the torque transmission ring on the other side. The shrink disk typically comprises one or two thrust rings with tapered bores and a matching tapered inner ring. Tightening the locking screws pulls the thrust rings together, compressing the inner ring and applying pretension to the torque transmission ring, ensuring that the load is distributed across all coupling surfaces, for example, on all sides of a form-fitting connection.

[0038] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the first coupling surface of the first coupling part is coupled to the third coupling surface of the torque transmission ring by means of a first form-fitting coupling.Form-fitting couplings such as keys, splines, serrations or polygonal profiles provide high torque transmission capabilities.

[0039] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the second coupling surface of the second coupling part is coupled to the fourth coupling surface of the torque transmission ring by means of a second form-fit connection.

[0040] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first shape-fitting connection includes a serration assembly, wherein the first connection surface of the first connection part includes a plurality of serration bevels, and wherein the third connection surface of the torque transfer ring includes a plurality of serration bevels configured to engage with the serration bevels of the first connection surface.

[0041] For example, the plurality of serrated slopes of the first coupling surface may be formed as peaks protruding from the first coupling surface and configured to engage with grooves at the third coupling surface.

[0042] Alternatively, the plurality of serrated slopes of the first coupling surface may be formed as grooves at the first coupling surface and configured to engage with peaks protruding from the third coupling surface.

[0043] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second shape-fitting connection includes a serration assembly, wherein the second connection surface of the second connection part includes a plurality of serration bevels, and wherein the fourth connection surface of the torque transfer ring includes a plurality of serration bevels configured to engage with the serration bevels of the second connection surface.

[0044] For example, the plurality of serrated slopes of the second coupling surface may be formed as peaks protruding from the second coupling surface and configured to engage with grooves at the fourth coupling surface.

[0045] Alternatively, the plurality of serrated slopes of the second coupling surface may be formed as grooves at the second coupling surface and configured to engage with peaks protruding from the fourth coupling surface.

[0046] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first shape-fitting connection includes a spline assembly, wherein the first connection surface of the first connection part includes a plurality of splines, and wherein the third connection surface of the torque transfer ring includes a plurality of splines configured to engage with the splines of the first connection surface.

[0047] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second shape-fitting connection between the second connecting part and the torque transfer ring includes a spline assembly, wherein the second connecting surface of the second connecting part includes a plurality of splines, and wherein the fourth connecting surface of the torque transfer ring includes a plurality of splines configured to engage with the splines of the second connecting surface.

[0048] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first form-fit connection comprises a driving flank assembly, wherein the first coupling surface of the first coupling part comprises a plurality of driving flanks, and wherein the third coupling surface of the torque transmission ring comprises a plurality of driven flanks configured to engage with the driving flanks of the first coupling surface. The thicker flanks of the driving flank assembly have the advantage of being able to transmit higher torques than serrations or splines.

[0049] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second shape-fitting connection between the second connecting part and the torque transfer ring includes a driving side assembly, wherein the second connecting surface of the second connecting part includes a plurality of driven sides, and wherein the fourth connecting surface of the torque transfer ring includes a plurality of driving sides configured to engage with the driven sides of the second connecting surface.

[0050] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a fastening device axially secures the first and second coupling parts together. The fastening device may be a bolt, screw, pin, rivet, thread, stud, or other longitudinal fastener for fastening. The use of a fastening device has the advantage of providing an axial lock that secures the first and second coupling parts together and reduces the risk of damage caused by bending of the torque-transmitting coupling assembly. The bending moment is axially transmitted directly through the fastening device, rather than through the torque-transmitting coupling assembly.

[0051] Without the fastening means, there is a high risk of bending moments being transmitted through the torque transmission coupling assembly. Bending moments can cause the form-fit connection between the torque transmission ring and the first and / or second coupling part to disengage and result in damage to the torque transmission coupling assembly.

[0052] The fastening device may also transfer a portion of the torque from the first coupling part to the second coupling part, thereby allowing a higher torque to be transferred from the first coupling part to the second coupling part.

[0053] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque transfer coupling assembly further comprises an axial distance or separation between the first coupling part and the second coupling part. In this embodiment of the invention, no fastening means are used. Therefore, the torque is transferred from the first coupling part to the second coupling part only via the torque transfer ring. This has the advantage that misalignments in the first coupling part and at the connection between the first coupling part and the torque transfer ring are not transferred to the second coupling part, and vice versa, because the torque transfer coupling assembly only locks the first coupling part and the second coupling part in the axial direction, thereby allowing misalignments in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction. This elastic coupling method also absorbs shocks, thereby reducing the risk of damage to components connected to the second coupling part.

[0054] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first compression ring presses the torque transfer ring against the first coupling part and the second compression ring presses the torque transfer ring against the second coupling part. In particular, the torque transfer ring comprises a third coupling surface, a fourth coupling surface and a fifth surface between the third coupling surface and the fourth coupling surface, where torque is transferred in the axial direction. This results in an axial spacing between the connection of the first coupling surface of the first coupling part to the third coupling surface of the torque transfer ring and the connection of the fourth coupling surface of the torque transfer ring to the second coupling surface of the second coupling part. This spacing allows a flexible connection of the torque transfer coupling assembly because the connection allows a certain degree of flexibility at the fifth surface, which can absorb bending moments and misalignment. The connection of the first coupling surface of the first coupling part to the third coupling surface of the torque transfer ring is compressed by the first compression ring. The connection of the fourth coupling surface of the torque transfer ring to the second coupling surface of the second coupling part is compressed by the second compression ring.

[0055] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the fifth surface of the torque transfer ring at least partially comprises a rigid material. This allows for high torque transfer properties of the wind turbine drive train.

[0056] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fifth surface of the torque transmission ring at least partially comprises an elastic material. This increases the flexibility of the torque transmission ring and its ability to absorb shocks, bending moments, and misalignment, thereby preventing undesirable non-torque loads from being transferred to the second coupling part and parts connected to the second coupling part, and preventing damage to these parts.

[0057] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the torque transmission ring comprises longitudinal grooves or windows. This increases the flexibility of the torque transmission ring and its ability to absorb shocks, bending moments and misalignments.

[0058] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, before installing the torque transmission ring and the compression ring of the torque transmission coupling assembly, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are aligned by means of a removable alignment device.

[0059] To align the first and second coupling parts, the axes of the two coupling parts are first aligned. The alignment device then aligns the first coupling surface of the first coupling part with the second coupling surface of the second coupling part. Before installing the torque transmission ring, and therefore before coupling the first coupling surface to the third coupling surface and the second coupling surface to the fourth coupling surface, the alignment device is removed and the angular position of the first coupling part relative to the second coupling part is fixed by the fastening device. This is because a certain angular clearance exists between the insertion hole and the fastening device to allow alignment and angular fixation.

[0060] If the connection of the first coupling surface to the third coupling surface and the connection of the second coupling surface to the fourth coupling surface is a form-fit connection including splines, serrations or side surfaces, the alignment device can be a device such as a curved surface having a curvature of the outer diameter of the first and second coupling parts with a plurality of cylinders. These cylinders are then spaced at an angle corresponding to the angular spacing between the valleys of the splines, serrations or side surfaces. These cylinders are then introduced into the valleys of the splines, serrations or side surfaces of the second coupling part and axially displaced toward the first coupling part so that they are also introduced into the valleys of the splines, serrations or side surfaces of the first coupling part, thereby aligning the valleys of the first coupling part and the second coupling part. The alignment device is then removed and the alignment between the first and second coupling parts is then fixed by a fastening device and the torque transfer ring can then slide over the first and second coupling parts and be pressed against the first and second coupling parts by means of a compression ring.

[0061] Preferably, the alignment means comprises three cylinders.

[0062] Preferably, the cylindrical body of the alignment means is a pin.

[0063] Preferably, the cylindrical body of the alignment device has a tapered end for enhancing the introduction of the cylindrical body into the valley.

[0064] Alternatively, a torque transfer ring can be used as an alignment device to align the first coupling surface of the first coupling part with the second coupling surface of the second coupling part. By mounting the torque transfer ring directly on the first and second coupling parts, the torque transfer ring aligns the coupling of the first coupling surface with the third coupling surface and the coupling of the second coupling surface with the fourth coupling surface.

[0065] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, both the third coupling surface and the fourth coupling surface may be arranged at the outer surface of the torque transfer ring. Then, the first coupling surface of the first coupling part and the second coupling surface of the second coupling part are arranged at the inner surface of the first coupling part and the inner surface of the second coupling part, respectively. In this case, the first coupling part and the second coupling part may be hollow shafts, and the coupling is completed at the inner radial part, i.e., the hollow part, of the shaft. Then, the torque is transmitted radially inward from the first coupling part to the torque transfer ring, then axially within the torque transfer ring, and finally radially outward from the torque transfer ring to the second coupling part. With this construction, the compression ring can be shrunk by cooling and inserted into the radially inner part of the torque transfer ring, and then, when it warms up to ambient temperature, it expands and presses the torque transfer ring against the first coupling part and / or the second coupling part.

[0066] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first coupling surface of the first coupling part is arranged at the outer surface of the first coupling part, and the second coupling surface of the second coupling part is arranged at the inner surface of the second coupling part. Therefore, the torque transfer ring has a third coupling surface at the inner surface of the torque transfer ring and a fourth coupling surface at the outer surface of the torque transfer ring. The torque is then transmitted radially outward from the first coupling part to the torque transfer ring, then axially within the torque transfer ring, and finally radially outward from the torque transfer ring to the second coupling part. In this construction, the compression ring may be arranged at the outer surface of the torque transfer ring in the torque transfer area between the torque transfer ring and the first coupling part. In addition, the second compression ring may be arranged at the inner surface of the torque transfer ring in the torque transfer area between the torque transfer ring and the second coupling part.

[0067] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first coupling surface of the first coupling part is arranged at the inner surface of the first coupling part, and the second coupling surface of the second coupling part is arranged at the outer surface of the second coupling part. Therefore, the torque transfer ring has a third coupling surface at the outer surface of the torque transfer ring and a fourth coupling surface at the inner surface of the torque transfer ring. The torque is then transmitted radially inward from the first coupling part to the torque transfer ring, then axially within the torque transfer ring, and finally radially inward from the torque transfer ring to the second coupling part. In this construction, the compression ring may be arranged at the inner surface of the torque transfer ring in the torque transfer area between the torque transfer ring and the first coupling part. In addition, the second compression ring may be arranged at the outer surface of the torque transfer ring in the torque transfer area between the torque transfer ring and the second coupling part.

[0068] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for assembling a torque transmission coupling assembly for coupling a first coupling part to a second coupling part, wherein the first coupling part and the second coupling part are configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the torque transmission coupling assembly, wherein the first coupling part includes a first coupling surface at an outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part, wherein the second coupling part includes a second coupling surface at an outer circumferential surface of the second coupling part, wherein the torque transmission coupling assembly includes a torque transmission ring and a compression ring, wherein the torque transmission ring includes a third coupling surface and a fourth coupling surface at an inner circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring, wherein the first coupling surface of the first coupling part is configured to be coupled to the third coupling surface of the torque transmission ring by means of a first form-fitting coupling, wherein the second coupling surface of the second coupling part is configured to be coupled to the fourth coupling surface of the torque transmission ring by means of a second form-fitting coupling, the method comprising the following steps:

[0069] - aligning the first coupling part and the second coupling part by means of a removable alignment device,

[0070] - fixing the first coupling part and the second coupling part together by means of a fastening device,

[0071] - remove the alignment device,

[0072] - mounting the torque transmission ring on the outer surfaces of the first coupling part and the second coupling part in such a way that the first coupling surface of the first coupling part engages with the third coupling surface of the torque transmission ring by means of a first form-fit connection and the second coupling surface 21 of the second coupling part engages with the fourth coupling surface of the torque transmission ring by means of a second form-fit connection, and

[0073] - Install the compression ring 5 on the outer surface of the torque transmission ring 4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] In order to facilitate the understanding of the characteristics of the present invention and as an integral part of this specification, some drawings are attached, on which illustrative and non-limiting reference numerals are provided, and the following drawings are presented:

[0075] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a torque transmitting coupling assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0076] Figure 2 Shown is a front view along the longitudinal axis of a torque transmitting coupling assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0077] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The coupling of the second coupling portion and the torque transmission ring according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0078] Figure 5 and Figure 6 An exploded view of first and second coupling parts and a torque transmitting coupling assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0079] Figure 7 An exploded view of the first and second coupling parts is shown.

[0080] Figure 8 The torque transfer ring is shown.

[0081] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a torque transmitting coupling assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] Figure 1A schematic diagram of a torque transmission coupling assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. The torque transmission coupling assembly 1 couples a first coupling part 2 to a second coupling part 3. The torque transmission coupling assembly 1 includes a torque transmission ring 4 and a compression ring 5. A first coupling surface 20 of the first coupling part 2 abuts against a third coupling surface 22 of the torque transmission ring 4. A second coupling surface 21 of the second coupling part 3 abuts against a fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4. Torque is transmitted from the first coupling surface 20 of the first coupling part 2 to the third coupling surface 22 of the torque transmission ring 4 and from the fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4 to the second coupling surface 21 of the second coupling part 3 in a torque transmission area 11 of the torque transmission coupling assembly 1. The compression ring 5 is configured to press the torque transmission ring 4 against the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3. The torque transmission ring 4 and the compression ring 5 are located in the torque transmission area 11.

[0083] In the embodiment shown here, the third coupling surface 22 and the fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4 are adjacent to each other. The torque transmission ring 4 is arranged at the outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part 2 and the outer circumferential surface of the second coupling part 2. The compression ring 5 is arranged at the outer circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring 4.

[0084] In this embodiment, a fastening device 7 is shown, which is configured to axially fix the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3 together. The fastening device 7 is a stud that is inserted into the threaded insertion hole 6 and fastened to the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3 by means of a nut 8. Alternatively, a bolt can be used as the fastening device 7, which does not require the installation of the nut 8.

[0085] Figure 2 A front view along the longitudinal axis 10 of a torque transmission coupling assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. The second coupling part 3 is coupled to the torque transmission ring 4 by means of a second form-fit connection. The second coupling surface 21 of the second coupling part 3 comprises a plurality of splines, wherein the fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4 comprises a plurality of splines configured to engage with the splines of the second coupling surface 21. The compression ring 5 is configured to press the torque transmission ring 4 against the second coupling part 3. A plurality of fastening means 7 secure the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3 together.

[0086] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The figure shows the coupling of the second coupling portion 3 and the torque transmission ring 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The compression ring 5 is made of an elastic material. The compression ring 5 is heated or radial force is applied to the compression ring 5 to enable the compression ring 5 to be installed on the outer circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring 4.

[0087] exist Figure 3In the embodiment shown in FIG5 , the compression ring 5 is placed in the correct position, but due to heating or radial forces applied thereto, the compression ring 5 has not yet been compressed, thereby leaving a gap between the torque transmission ring 4 and the compression ring 5. Therefore, there is also some clearance in the radial direction between the second coupling part 3 and the torque transmission ring 4, because the compression ring 5 does not apply a radial force and therefore does not press the torque transmission ring 4 against the second coupling part 3.

[0088] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, the compression ring 5 exerts a radial force on the torque transfer ring 4, for example because it has cooled and contracted, thereby pressing the torque transfer ring 4 against the second coupling part 3. The contact between the torque transfer ring 4 and the second coupling part 3, through which the torque is transferred, is achieved at the surfaces of the sides of the two matching coupling surfaces extending substantially in the radial direction, because the torque is transferred tangentially through these surfaces due to the rotational nature of the coupling parts. In order to avoid oversizing of the torque transfer coupling assembly 1 and to facilitate assembly, the axially extending surfaces, such as the peaks and valleys of the said sides, have clearances with the matching coupling surfaces, because the torque is not transferred through these surfaces. In particular, the torque is not transferred from the peaks of the sides of the coupling surfaces to the valleys of the sides of the matching coupling surfaces.

[0089] There is no longer any gap between the second coupling part 3 and the torque transmission ring 4 and the coupling assembly 1 is locked.

[0090] Figure 5 and Figure 6 1 shows an exploded view of the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3 and the torque transmission coupling assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The arrangement of these components is similar to Figure 1 , in which the torque transmission ring 4 is at the radially outer surface of the first and second coupling parts 2 , 3 , and the compression ring 5 is at the radially outer surface of the torque transmission ring 4 .

[0091] The first coupling part 2 , the second coupling part 3 and the torque transmitting coupling assembly 1 rotate about the longitudinal axis 10 .

[0092] The fastening means 7 may be a bolt that is pre-installed at the second coupling part 3 during the manufacture of the second coupling part 3 to reduce the installation time of the torque transmitting coupling assembly 1. Similarly, the fastening means 7 may be a stud that is pre-installed at the first coupling part 2 during the manufacture of the first coupling part 2 to reduce the installation time of the torque transmitting coupling assembly 1.

[0093] Figure 7An exploded view of the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3 is shown. As can be seen from the figure, the first coupling part 2 comprises a first coupling surface 20 in the torque transmission area 11, the first coupling surface 20 having a spline configured to engage with a spline of a third coupling surface 22 of the torque transmission ring 4. Similarly, the second coupling part 3 comprises a second coupling surface 21 in the torque transmission area 11, the second coupling surface 21 having a spline configured to engage with a spline of a fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4. As can be seen from the figure, the outer diameters of both the first coupling surface 20 and the second coupling surface 21 are similar. This is advantageous with regard to the alignment of the form-fitting connection of the first coupling part 2 and the second coupling part 3 and for the sliding of the torque transmission ring 4 on the first and second coupling parts 2, 3.

[0094] Figure 8 A torque transmission ring 4 is shown. The third coupling surface 22 and the fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4 are adjacent to each other and have the same inner diameter. This embodiment of the torque transmission ring 4 can slide on the first and second coupling parts 2, 3 having the same outer diameter at the first coupling surface 20 and the second coupling surface 21, as shown. Figure 7 As shown in .

[0095] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a torque transmission coupling assembly 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. A first compression ring 5 presses the torque transmission ring 4 against the first coupling portion 2, and a second compression ring 5 presses the torque transmission ring 4 against the second coupling portion 3. Specifically, the torque transmission ring 4 includes a third coupling surface 22, a fourth coupling surface 23, and a fifth surface 24 located between the third and fourth coupling surfaces 22, 23, where torque is transmitted in the axial direction. This results in a gap between the coupling of the first coupling surface 20 of the first coupling portion 2 with the third coupling surface 22 of the torque transmission ring 4 and the coupling of the fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4 with the second coupling surface 21 of the second coupling portion 3. This gap allows for a flexible coupling of the torque transmission coupling assembly 1 because the coupling allows for a degree of flexibility at the fifth surface 24, which can absorb bending moments and misalignment. The coupling of the first coupling surface 20 of the first coupling portion 2 with the third coupling surface 22 of the torque transmission ring 4 is compressed by the first compression ring 5. The coupling of the fourth coupling surface 23 of the torque transmission ring 4 with the second coupling surface 21 of the second coupling portion 3 is compressed by the second compression ring 5.

[0096] Reference Signs List

[0097] 1 Torque transmission coupling assembly

[0098] 2 First connection part

[0099] 3 Second connection part

[0100] 4 Torque transfer ring

[0101] 5 Compression ring

[0102] 6 Insertion hole

[0103] 7 Fastening device

[0104] 8 nuts

[0105] 10 Longitudinal axis

[0106] 11 Torque transmission area

[0107] 20 first connecting surface

[0108] 21 Second connecting surface

[0109] 22 Third connection surface

[0110] 23 Fourth connecting surface

[0111] 24 Fifth surface.

Claims

1. A torque transmitting coupling assembly (1) for a wind turbine, configured to rotatably couple a first coupling part (2) to a second coupling part (3), in, The first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) are configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis (10) of the torque transmitting coupling assembly (1), Characterized in that the torque transmission coupling assembly (1) comprises a torque transmission ring (4) and a compression ring (5), wherein a first coupling surface (20) of the first coupling portion (2) at its outer circumferential surface abuts against a third coupling surface (22) of the torque transfer ring (4), wherein the second coupling surface (21) of the second coupling portion (3) at its outer circumferential surface abuts against the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transfer ring (4), wherein torque is transferred in the torque transfer region (11) of the torque transfer coupling assembly (1) from the first coupling surface (20) of the first coupling part (2) to the third coupling surface (22) of the torque transfer ring (4) and from the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transfer ring (4) to the second coupling surface (21) of the second coupling part (3), wherein the compression ring (5) is configured to press the torque transfer ring (4) against the first coupling part (2) and / or the second coupling part (3), wherein the torque transfer ring (4) and the compression ring (5) are located in the torque transfer area (11), wherein the torque transmission ring (4) is capable of sliding on the outer surfaces of the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (10) so that the first coupling surface (20) and the second coupling surface (21) abut against the third coupling surface (22) and the fourth coupling surface (23), respectively, The ring portion of the torque transmission ring is closed and made of a rigid material, and the third coupling surface and the fourth coupling surface provided on the inner side of the ring portion are made of an elastic material.

2. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The third coupling surface (22) and the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transfer ring (4) are adjacent to each other.

3. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Before the compression ring (5) is mounted, the torque transmission ring (4) is loosely coupled to the first coupling part (2) and / or the second coupling part (3).

4. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The torque transmission ring (4) is arranged at the outer circumferential surface of the first coupling part (2) and / or at the outer circumferential surface of the second coupling part (3).

5. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The compression ring (5) is arranged at the outer circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring (4).

6. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The compression ring (5) is a compression ring of elastic material and is configured to be heated so as to slide the compression ring (5) on the outer circumferential surface of the torque transmission ring (4).

7. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The first coupling surface (20) of the first coupling part (2) is coupled to the third coupling surface (22) of the torque transmission ring (4) by means of a first form-fitting coupling.

8. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The second coupling surface (21) of the second coupling part (3) is coupled to the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transmission ring (4) by means of a second form-fitting connection.

9. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that The first form-fit connection comprises a serration assembly, wherein the first connection surface (20) of the first connection portion (2) comprises a plurality of serration bevels, wherein the third connection surface (22) of the torque transfer ring (4) comprises a plurality of serration bevels configured to engage with the serration bevels of the first connection surface (20).

10. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that The second form-fit connection comprises a serration assembly, wherein the second connection surface (21) of the second connection part (3) comprises a plurality of serration bevels, wherein the fourth connection surface (23) of the torque transfer ring (4) comprises a plurality of serration bevels configured to engage with the serration bevels of the second connection surface (21).

11. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that The first form-fitting connection comprises a driving side assembly, wherein the first coupling surface (20) of the first coupling part (2) comprises a plurality of driving sides, and wherein the third coupling surface (22) of the torque transfer ring (4) comprises a plurality of driven sides configured to engage with the driving sides of the first coupling surface (20).

12. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that The second form-fit connection between the second coupling part (3) and the torque transfer ring (4) comprises a driving side assembly, wherein the second coupling surface (21) of the second coupling part (3) comprises a plurality of driven sides, wherein the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transfer ring (4) comprises a plurality of driving sides configured to engage with the driven sides of the second coupling surface (21).

13. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A fastening device (7) secures the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) together axially.

14. The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Before installing the torque transmission ring (4) and the compression ring (5) of the torque transmission coupling assembly (1), the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) are aligned by means of a removable alignment device.

15. A method for assembling a torque transmitting coupling assembly (1) coupling a first coupling part (2) to a second coupling part (3), in, The first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) are configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis (10) of the torque transmitting coupling assembly (1), wherein the first coupling portion (2) comprises a first coupling surface (20) at an outer circumferential surface of the first coupling portion (2), wherein the second coupling portion (3) comprises a second coupling surface (21) at an outer circumferential surface of the second coupling portion (3), The torque transmission coupling assembly (1) comprises a torque transmission ring (4) and a compression ring (5). The torque transfer ring (4) comprises a third coupling surface (22) and a fourth coupling surface (23) located at the inner circumferential surface of the torque transfer ring (4). wherein the first coupling surface (20) of the first coupling part (2) is configured to be coupled to the third coupling surface (22) of the torque transmission ring (4) by means of a first form-fitting coupling, wherein the second coupling surface (21) of the second coupling part (3) is configured to be coupled to the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transmission ring (4) by means of a second form-fitting coupling, The method comprises the following steps: - aligning the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3), - fixing the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) together by means of fastening means (7), - sliding the torque transfer ring (4) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (10) over the outer surfaces of the first coupling part (2) and the second coupling part (3) so that the first coupling surface (20) of the first coupling part (2) engages with the third coupling surface (22) of the torque transfer ring (4) by means of the first form-fit connection, and so that the second coupling surface (21) of the second coupling part (3) engages with the fourth coupling surface (23) of the torque transfer ring (4) by means of the second form-fit connection, and - mounting the compression ring (5) on the outer surface of the torque transmission ring (4), The ring portion of the torque transmission ring is closed and made of a rigid material, and the third coupling surface and the fourth coupling surface provided on the inner side of the ring portion are made of an elastic material.

Images