Extension yoke for a jack-up crane, jack-up wind turbine crane with extension yoke and use of an extension yoke

Abstract

An extension yoke (1), a jack-up wind turbine crane (5) having such a yoke, and a method of using such a yoke are disclosed. The yoke comprises a frame structure comprising a lifting portion (2) and a load transfer portion (3) forming an obtuse angle with each other, and at least one crane attachment element (4) between the load transfer portion and the lifting portion, configured to establish a pivotal connection with a crane. The lifting portion comprises a load attachment element (2), and the load transfer portion comprises at least one load transfer element (33) configured to transfer a compression force by pressing against a receiving surface (52) of the crane and to move relative to the receiving surface. The frame structure can comprise at least two substantially parallel longitudinal beams (12a, 12b), at least one cross beam (13) and / or at least one stabilizing element (12), and the crane attachment element can comprise a sheave block receiving element.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an extension yoke for a self-elevating wind turbine crane, a self-elevating wind turbine crane having an extension yoke, and the use of the extension yoke for a self-elevating wind turbine crane.

[0002] When servicing or replacing components in large wind turbines, small, transportable, self-elevating boom cranes are often used to lift components such as gearboxes, generators, transformers, main bearings, and rotors into and from the wind turbine nacelle. These cranes typically consist of an anchoring bracket positioned within the wind turbine nacelle, and a crane section comprising a boom connected via cables to a pulley system containing a crane hook.

[0003] Onshore wind turbine sites are most commonly located in remote, rural areas with poor road infrastructure, making the transportation of cranes to these sites cumbersome and expensive. For offshore wind turbines, cranes are typically transported to the site by tugboat or small cargo vessel, and weather conditions are often a challenge. To facilitate transportation and reduce costs, many such cranes are designed and sized to fit into one or more standard intermodal shipping containers, which can be handled using standardized equipment and will protect the crane during transport. An example of a standard crane manufactured to fit into a 40-foot container is the applicant's LT1200 Liftra self-elevating crane, which has an outreach of approximately 7 meters.

[0004] In use, the crane may need to extend into all areas of the wind turbine nacelle in order to be able to lift and position different components, and therefore may need to have a greater reach in the horizontal direction than can be achieved with a crane boom that can be adapted to fit in a 40-foot container.

[0005] To achieve a longer crane reach, it is generally known to use a lifting beam. A lifting beam is a long beam with crane attachment elements at both ends and at the center for connection to a crane hook. At the first end is a load attachment element for attaching the item to be lifted, and at the second end is a counterweight attachment element for attaching a counterweight. The counterweight is chosen such that it matches the weight of the item to be lifted, allowing the lifting beam to remain approximately horizontal during lifting. An example of such a lifting beam can be seen in US 3675961 A.

[0006] One problem associated with using a lifting beam to extend the crane's reach is that the cumulative weight of the lifting beam and counterweight reduces the crane's effective maximum working load (WLL). As a result, the maximum weight that a crane with a lifting beam can lift will be approximately half that of a crane without a lifting beam. Therefore, when using a lifting beam, the crane may not be able to lift heavy components, such as gearboxes, into and out of the nacelle.

[0007] Another problem with using lifting beams to extend the crane boom's reach is that the counterweight may need to be adjusted before each lift. Adjusting the counterweight can delay the replacement of components in the nacelle, leading to longer downtime for the wind turbine and higher costs for component replacement.

[0008] Another problem with using lift beams is that long lift beams and counterweights may require an entire separate container to be transported to the wind turbine site, resulting in greater logistical complexity and increased process costs when replacing parts.

[0009] Another problem with using lifting beams for hoisting is that they are sensitive to wind and therefore may not be usable during periods of high wind speeds that often occur at wind turbine sites. Wind-induced rotation of the horizontal beam can be dangerous for wind turbine installers, damage the wind turbine tower, and / or make it difficult to place components in or near the nacelle.

[0010] US2703180A describes a crane system in which a cantilever is used to extend the crane's boom, thereby giving the crane system a longer range without reducing the effective working load limit (WLL). However, this type of crane system is not suitable for use in the nacelle of a wind turbine because it relies on counterweights to ensure stability during operation.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an alternative solution for extending the reach of a self-elevating wind turbine crane with minimal impact on the crane's lifting capacity.

[0012] Furthermore, an object of the present invention may be to provide a solution for extending the reach of a self-elevating crane, which can be used in high wind speeds and has a high degree of safety.

[0013] A further object of the present invention may be to provide an extended yoke that occupies minimal space during transportation.

[0014] In a first aspect of the invention, at least one of these objectives is achieved by an extension yoke for a self-elevating wind turbine crane, the extension yoke comprising a frame structure including:

[0015] Improvement section

[0016] Load transfer section, and

[0017] At least one crane attachment element is provided between the load transfer section and the lifting section, the at least one crane attachment element being configured to establish a pivot connection with the crane.

[0018] The lifting section has a proximal end at the crane attachment element, a distal end opposite to the proximal end, and a load attachment element at the distal end.

[0019] The load transfer portion has a proximal end at the crane attachment element, a distal end opposite to the proximal end, and at least one load transfer element at the distal end, the load transfer element being configured to transfer compressive force by pressing against and moving relative to the receiving surface of the crane.

[0020] The load-transfer section and the lifting section form an obtuse angle with each other, and

[0021] The frame structure further includes at least one stabilizing element that interconnects portions of the frame structure, the stabilizing element forming an acute angle with at least one portion.

[0022] By being configured to transmit compressive force by pressing against the receiving surface of the crane, the load transfer element allows the crane itself to counteract the load of the lifted item, thus eliminating the need for counterweights. This means that only the weight of the extension yoke itself reduces the crane's effective lifting capacity, or WLL, thereby extending the outrigger and bringing the effective lifting capacity close to the crane's total lifting capacity.

[0023] Furthermore, by eliminating counterweights, there is no longer a need to provide multiple counterweights, and no need for adjustments before each lift. In addition, the contact between the crane and the extension yoke means that, at least during part of the lift, the extension yoke is unlikely to rotate under the influence of wind, and therefore is unlikely to cause damage to the crane, wind turbine, and personnel.

[0024] The ability to move relative to the receiving surface, combined with the obtuse angle between the load transfer section and the lifting section, allows the yoke to function only during the portion of the lifting process where extended reach is required, while the yoke remains passively suspended from the crane during the remainder of the lifting process. The movement of the load transfer element relative to the receiving surface causes the load transfer element to be displaced relative to the crane, for example, by rolling or sliding the load transfer element on the crane surface, as will be described in more detail below. In other words, the load transfer element is configured to be displaced relative to the receiving surface when in contact with it.

[0025] The stabilizing element can connect the lifting section and the load-transfer section of the frame structure to form a triangular structure for stabilizing the frame structure and / or for reducing stress at the connection between the lifting section and the load-transfer section.

[0026] For example, the stabilizing element can be a substantially incompressible element such as a beam or rod, which increases the strength and stiffness of the extension yoke, allowing the extension yoke to withstand, for example, greater torsional forces. As another example, at least one stabilizing element can be a tension element such as a strip, belt, cord, or cable, which is a lightweight alternative used, particularly when a load is attached, to distribute forces and reinforce the extension yoke.

[0027] In one embodiment, the frame structure includes at least two fundamental parallel longitudinal beams. This means that the loads attached to the frame structure can be distributed across at least two parallel longitudinal beams, which reduces the stress in each beam and allows for the use of lighter or more compact beams, potentially making the frame structure more durable and / or with greater effective lifting capacity.

[0028] By having space between the two parallel longitudinal beams, the frame structure can potentially become more stable during use, because there can be two or more contact points spaced apart from each other between the load-transmitting elements and the receiving surfaces. This also means that the load affecting each contact point will be smaller.

[0029] The space provided between the two longitudinal beams can be used to fit an object (e.g., a pulley system) between the two longitudinal beams, as will be described later.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the frame structure includes at least one crossbeam connecting at least two substantially parallel longitudinal beams. The at least one crossbeam can further distribute forces across the at least two longitudinal beams, thus creating a more balanced structure and providing greater stability.

[0031] At least one crossbeam may be positioned at a recess, bend, or other location on at least one longitudinal beam to reinforce or support that portion of the longitudinal beam.

[0032] In one embodiment, the frame structure includes at least one crossbeam forming part of the lifting section and at least one crossbeam forming part of the load transfer section, which further enhances the stability and strength of the frame structure.

[0033] In one embodiment, a first end of at least one stabilizing element is connected to the far end of the lifting section, and a second end of the stabilizing element is connected to the load transfer section.

[0034] In an embodiment, at least one stabilizing element is displaceable, such that the angle between the stabilizing element and the lifting portion, or the angle between the stabilizing element and the load-transfer portion, can be changed to adapt the extension yoke to different types of loads and forces. This can also be advantageous in conjunction with possible obtuse angle adjustments, as will be described later.

[0035] The length of the stabilizing element can be adjusted, for example, by means of a stabilizing element comprising an expansion joint, a releasable joint, and / or an extension. By shortening or extending the length of the stabilizing element, the position of the stabilizing element relative to the lifting section and / or load-transfer section can be altered, resulting in a different distribution of forces within the frame structure.

[0036] In one embodiment, the stabilizing element includes a series of openings extending along its length, and the load transfer portion includes a releasable connector for connecting to the openings of the stabilizing element. Here, the usable length of the stabilizing element is the length extending between a first end connected to the distal end of the lifting portion and the opening in the stabilizing element connected to the releasable connector of the load transfer portion. Therefore, the usable length of the stabilizing element can be adjusted by connecting the releasable connector to different holes in the stabilizing element, while the total length of the stabilizing element remains constant.

[0037] A releasable joint can be used at the connection between the stabilizing element and the lifting part, at the connection between the stabilizing element and the load transfer part, or at both connections. The opening can be a through hole, cavity, or similar structure suitable for engagement with the joint's pins, bolts, etc.

[0038] One or more stabilizing elements can connect the longitudinal beams of the frame structure.

[0039] Load attachment elements may include, for example, hooks, shackles, hooks, or latches. Load attachment elements as hooks or shackles allow for manual securing of the load during lifting and placement into the nacelle, as they provide a closed loop and allow for easy attachment and removal of the load via a manual release mechanism. Load attachment elements as shackles or hooks allow for easy attachment of the load by suspension and hold the load in place by gravity.

[0040] The load attachment element may be made of, for example, steel, aluminum, carbon composite material, composite material, or a combination thereof.

[0041] In one embodiment, the load attachment element is replaceable, allowing for the selection of different types or sizes of load attachment elements to accommodate load, size, or attachment requirements set by different types of loads.

[0042] At least one load attachment element may be disposed on a beam of the frame structure. In one embodiment, at least one load attachment element is disposed on a crossbeam extending between two longitudinal beams of the frame structure, such that the center of mass of the load is pulled along the crossbeam, and the load is substantially uniformly distributed across at least two longitudinal beams. In another embodiment, at least one load attachment element is disposed on a longitudinal beam such that the load directly affects the beam.

[0043] In an embodiment, the extension yoke includes at least two load attachment elements, each disposed on or at one of the at least two longitudinal beams, providing the option to attach loads at two points or to connect two separate loads to the extension yoke.

[0044] Crane attachment elements can be simple hooks, rings, hook rings, etc., set on the frame structure, as described above for reference load attachment elements.

[0045] In one embodiment, the frame structure includes two crane attachment elements, each disposed on one or both of two substantially parallel longitudinal beams. This provides stability and uniform load distribution across the two longitudinal beams. Having two crane attachment elements further increases safety when lifting and placing loads, as the second crane attachment element can act as a fail-safe mechanism if the first crane attachment element fails or detaches, and vice versa.

[0046] In one embodiment, each of the two crane attachment elements is positioned on the inside of a longitudinal beam of the frame structure, and thus faces the space between the longitudinal beams. This, for example, allows the crane pulley block to be arranged between the longitudinal beams and connected to the two longitudinal beams.

[0047] In one embodiment, two crane attachment elements are each pivotally connected to a beam of the frame structure, thereby providing a rotation axis extending between the two crane attachment elements, about which the extended yoke pivots during use.

[0048] When a pivotal connection is used between two crane attachment elements and a pulley block is arranged between the two crane attachment elements, the connection should be coaxial in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of at least two longitudinal beams to allow the extended yoke to rotate about the pulley block.

[0049] In one embodiment, the pivot connection between the crane attachment element and the frame structure is located at the apex of an obtuse angle.

[0050] In one embodiment, the crane attachment element includes a pulley block receiving element comprising two plates and at least one connecting member extending between the two plates, each plate being pivotally connected to a longitudinal beam. In the installed position, the pulley block receiving element secures the pulley block and thus provides a connection between the crane and the frame structure. Consequently, the extended yoke and pulley block can only rotate about an axis defined by the pivotal connection between the plates and the beam, which contributes to stability under windy conditions.

[0051] In one embodiment, the connecting member mates with recesses, holes, etc. in the pulley block to secure the pulley block to the pulley block receiving element, and thus to the crane attachment element.

[0052] In similar embodiments, the connecting member includes at least one fastener for securing the connecting member to the pulley assembly. The fastener may be, for example, any one selected from the group consisting of screws, nails, pins, bolts, threaded bars, and combinations thereof.

[0053] The pulley block receiving element may include two or more connecting members, preferably three to six connecting members, and most preferably four connecting members.

[0054] In one embodiment, the pulley block receiving element includes a connecting member selected from the group consisting of: bar, crossbar, rod, elastic member, plate, rope, and spring.

[0055] As described above, the load transfer element allows the frame structure to transfer compressive forces to the receiving surface of the crane boom while moving along the receiving surface of the crane boom, which allows the frame structure to rotate about the crane attachment element or its axis of rotation.

[0056] In one embodiment, the extension yoke can rotate about the crane attachment element from a lifting position to an extended position. In the lifting position, the lifting portion is substantially vertical, and in the extended position, the lifting portion is substantially horizontal and the load transfer element is in contact with the receiving surface.

[0057] In one embodiment, from the hoisting position to the extended position, the extended yoke can rotate up to 120 degrees, more specifically up to 105 degrees, or even more specifically up to 90 degrees, about the crane attachment element, and vice versa.

[0058] The load-transmitting element may include, for example, at least one element selected from the group consisting of: wheel, ball, roller, ball joint, smooth end, smooth end surface, slide plate, slip shoe, slider, friction-reducing coating, and combinations thereof.

[0059] If the load transfer element is a rolling type, such as a wheel, it allows for a low force threshold before the element begins to move along the receiving surface. Rolling load transfer elements can be further used in any crane with a receiving surface.

[0060] If the load transfer element is a sliding type suitable for sliding, such as a slipper, then when moving from the hoisting position to the extended position, the sliding path of the load transfer element forms a controlled movement in a predetermined path for the load transfer element, and vice versa.

[0061] The load transfer element may include at least one guide member for guiding movement of the load transfer element on a receiving surface of the crane boom. In an embodiment, the guide member engages with a second surface of the crane boom such that the load transfer element is guided along that surface. The second surface may be perpendicular to the receiving surface.

[0062] In one embodiment, the guide member is selected from the group consisting of: flange, plate, roller, bracket or wheel.

[0063] Frame structures can include beams made of materials selected from the group consisting of: steel, hardened steel, heat-treated steel, compressed steel, refined steel, cast iron, aluminum, aluminum alloys, polymers, carbon composites, and combinations thereof. Frame structures primarily constructed of one type of steel ensure high strength and durability due to the mechanical properties of the materials. Frame structures constructed of lighter materials, such as carbon composites or aluminum, allow for lightweight solutions with high strength while offering significantly higher lifting capacity compared to heavier materials.

[0064] In one embodiment, the connection between the lifting portion and the load transfer portion of the frame structure is a releasable joint, wherein the lifting portion and the load transfer portion can move relative to each other to change the obtuse angle of the frame structure, for example, to change the extension of the yoke or to facilitate transportation.

[0065] In one embodiment, the releasable connector is a connector selected from the group consisting of: pin joints, pivot joints, bolt joints, screw joints, saddle joints, and flat joints.

[0066] The repositioning of the lifting section relative to the load transfer section can be caused by a stabilizing element, which is fixedly connected to the lifting section and displaceably connected to the load transfer section, or vice versa. Therefore, moving the displaceable end of the stabilizing element toward the vertex of the obtuse angle will widen the obtuse angle. Alternatively, moving the displaceable end of the stabilizing element away from the vertex of the obtuse angle will narrow the obtuse angle, thereby shortening the total length of the extended yoke. Displaceable connections can also be present at both ends of the stabilizing element.

[0067] If the length of the stabilizing element is adjustable, the obtuse angle can be changed by altering the length of the stabilizing element, rather than by shifting one end of a fixed-length stabilizing element as described above. The use of one or more stabilizing elements with adjustable lengths and movable connections to the lifting and / or load-transfer portions is also within the scope of this invention.

[0068] In this embodiment, the connection between the lifting section and the load-transfer section of the frame structure is a permanent joint that fixes the obtuse angle to a predetermined angle. This provides the desired angle and a robust joint at the apex of the obtuse angle.

[0069] In one embodiment, the fixed joint is a joint selected from the group consisting of: welded joints, welded joints, tenon joints, feather joints, box joints, bolted connections, and bracket joints.

[0070] In one embodiment, the obtuse angle is 95 to 180 degrees, more specifically 100 to 160 degrees, or even more specifically 110 to 140 degrees.

[0071] In a second aspect of the invention, at least one object of the invention is achieved by a self-elevating wind turbine crane having an extended yoke as described above, wherein the crane comprises:

[0072] Crane boom, the crane boom having a receiving surface.

[0073] Pulley system, and

[0074] At least one cable connects the pulley block to the crane boom.

[0075] The extended yoke is pivotally connected to the pulley block, and the load-transfer element and the receiving surface of the crane are configured to contact each other during operation and to transfer compressive force from the load-transfer element to the receiving surface.

[0076] By equipping self-elevating cranes with an extension yoke as described above, the crane's reach can be much longer than the crane boom itself, thus increasing the crane's versatility. Furthermore, self-elevating cranes with extension yokes can be used to lift even large objects without requiring additional equipment and can be used without adjustments between lifts.

[0077] In one embodiment, the dimensions of the self-elevating crane and the extension yoke are designed to fit into one, one and a half, or two forty-foot containers, so that the transport of the self-elevating crane and the extension yoke can be accomplished with simple, standardized equipment.

[0078] A receiving surface suitable for contacting the load-transmitting element can also be provided on other parts of the crane.

[0079] The receiving surface can be formed, for example, by the main surface of one or more plate members used to form the crane boom or by the edge of one or more plate members used to form the crane boom, but additional elements such as guide rails can also be used.

[0080] The embodiments and advantages described with reference to the first aspect of the invention are also applicable to the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0081] In a third aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by using the extended yoke as described above for increasing the outrigger of the self-elevating crane, in the following manner:

[0082] The crane attachment element of the extended yoke is pivotally connected to the crane's pulley block.

[0083] Attach the load to the load attachment element.

[0084] Use a crane to lift the pulley block, the extended yoke, and the attached load.

[0085] During the lifting process, the load transfer element at the far end of the load transfer section contacts the receiving surface of the crane boom and transfers the compressive force to the crane boom. The load transfer element moves along the receiving surface while extending the yoke around the pulley block and pivoting.

[0086] By extending the yoke to transfer the compressive force to the crane boom and pivoting it around the pulley block to the extended position, the crane's reach is extended when in the extended position. Furthermore, transferring the compressive force to the crane eliminates the need for counterweights, as the crane itself acts as a counterweight.

[0087] The embodiments and advantages described with reference to the first and second aspects of the invention are also applicable to the third aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0088] Other objectives, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed disclosure, from the appended claims and from the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0089] The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0090] Figure 1 This is a side view of the extended yoke according to the present invention.

[0091] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of the extended yoke in the image.

[0092] Figure 3 It is seen from different angles Figure 1 and Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram of the extended yoke.

[0093] Figure 4 It is seen from different angles and has pulley block receiving elements. Figure 2 Detailed stereoscopic view of the details marked IV in the middle.

[0094] Figure 5 This is a side view of the extended yoke connected to the crane in the lifting position.

[0095] Figure 6 It corresponds to Figure 5 The side view shows the load-transmitting element of the extended yoke in contact with the receiving surface of the crane.

[0096] Figure 7 It corresponds to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The side view, but in which the extended yoke is in the extended position.

[0097] Figure 1 An extension yoke 1 for a self-elevating wind turbine crane is shown, the extension yoke comprising a frame structure having a lifting section 2 and a load transfer section 3. The load transfer section 2 and the lifting section 3 form an obtuse angle α with each other, approximately 125 degrees in this embodiment.

[0098] The lifting section 2 has a proximal end 21 at the vertex of the obtuse angle α, a distal end 22 opposite to the proximal end, and a load attachment element 23 at the distal end 22 for attaching the load to the extended yoke.

[0099] Similarly, the load transfer portion 3 has a proximal end 31 at the vertex of an obtuse angle and a distal end 32 opposite to the proximal end 31. A load transfer element 33 in the form of a wheel 33a is provided at the distal end 32. The load transfer element 33 is used to transfer compressive force from the extended yoke 1 to the receiving surface of the crane. Figure 1 (not shown in the image), and is used for movement relative to the receiving surface, as will be described in detail later.

[0100] exist Figure 1 In this embodiment, the lifting section 2 and the load transfer section 3 are connected to each other by separate beams fixed to each other at the vertex of the obtuse angle α via beam joint 24. However, a single curved beam extending from the distal end 32 of the load transfer section 3 to the distal end 22 of the lifting section 2 may also be used. In yet another embodiment, the beams of the lifting section 2 and the load transfer section 3 are connected by a releasable joint, thereby allowing the obtuse angle α to be changed and / or the frame structure to be disassembled for transport and repair.

[0101] exist Figure 1In this structure, a beam-shaped stabilizing element 12 is connected to and extends from the distal end 22 of the lifting section 2 to connect with the load transfer section 3, thus forming an acute angle with both the lifting section and the load transfer section. In this way, the frame structure is given a triangular shape for enhanced stability. A similar structure can be achieved by extending the stabilizing element 12 from the distal end 32 of the load transfer section 3 to the lifting section 2 or from one distal end to the other.

[0102] Now it has also turned to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The extended yoke 1 is shown in a three-dimensional view. It can be seen that the frame structure includes multiple beams, including two basic parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b, which extend from the far end 22 of the lifting section to the far end 32 of the load transfer section and are interconnected by crossbeam 13 and box girder 14.

[0103] All beams extend in the same plane, such that the beams only form as... Figure 1 A simple triangular frame structure as shown is also possible. This frame structure would have relatively low weight and be easy to handle and transport, but since its structural stability would also be lower, this embodiment will not be described further.

[0104] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the frame structure, the crossbeam 13 is located at the far end of the lifting section 22 between and connects the two parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b. Similarly, the crossbeam 14, which is shaped like a box girder, connects the two parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b at the load transfer section 3.

[0105] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, each of the two parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b includes inwardly curved portions 34a and 34b at the load transfer portion 3, the curved portions facing the central plane C of the frame structure, such that the load transfer portion is wider at the proximal end 31 than at the distal end 32 in a direction perpendicular to the central plane C. Further toward the distal end 32 of the load transfer portion 3, each longitudinal beam 11a and 11b has outwardly curved portions 35a and 35b, the angles of which correspond to the angles of the inwardly curved portions, such that the remaining portions of the two parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b extending from the outwardly curved portions to the distal end 32 are substantially parallel.

[0106] The reinforcing member 36 reinforces the corners formed by the outward bends 35a and 35b on the upper side of the beam and the lower side of the two longitudinal beams 11a and 11b. In other embodiments, similar reinforcing members may be part of the construction at any weld, bend, or connection between beams. In this embodiment, the box girder 14 provides similar reinforcement at the inward bends 34a and 34b.

[0107] Two parallel stabilizing beams 12a and 12b extend from the distal end 22 of the lifting section to the load transfer section 3, each stabilizing beam being connected to one of the parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b and attached to the box girder 14. Thus, the box girder serves as a central support element and can be provided with an internal support structure to offer additional strength and / or stiffness. However, simpler crossbeams can also be used at the load transfer section 3 and / or positioned closer to the distal or proximal end of the load transfer section.

[0108] In this embodiment, the beam is a steel beam with a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape, but the beam can be any beam selected from the group consisting of square beams, I-beams, H-beams, U-beams, circular beams, tubular beams, and combinations thereof, and can be made of other materials such as aluminum, aluminum alloys, polymers, carbon composites, and combinations thereof.

[0109] In this particular embodiment, the length Llp of the lifting section 2, measured from the proximal end 21 to the distal end 22, is approximately 3.2 meters, and the length Ltp of the load transfer section 3 is approximately 2.3 meters. The total length Ly of the extended yoke 1, measured from the distal end 22 of the lifting section to the distal end 32 of the load transfer section, is approximately 4.9 meters. Figure 1 As shown in the figure. In other embodiments, the lengths of these portions can be shorter or longer, and the relationship between the lengths of the two portions can be different, such as 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, or 5:1. Similarly, the obtuse angle ratio can be made... Figures 1 to 3 The narrower angles shown, such as 100 or 110 degrees, or the wider angles, such as 130 or 140 degrees, are used to shorten or extend the total length Ly of the extension yoke, respectively.

[0110] As described above, a load attachment element 23 is provided at the distal end 22 of the lifting section 2. In this embodiment, the load attachment element 23 is in the form of a load attachment plate 23a having a hook 23b for attaching a load. Figure 1 The hook 23b is a replaceable hook for heavy lifting, such as gearbox lifting, but other items to be lifted may require additional attachment devices, such as hooks. Additional hooks, rings, hooks, etc., can be attached to the opening 23c in the load attachment plate 23a.

[0111] Here, a single load attachment plate 23a is positioned at the center of the crossbeam 13, but it is also possible to have two load attachment plates on the crossbeam that are a certain distance apart from each other, or to use a load attachment element 23 without attachment plates.

[0112] At the distal end 32 of the load transfer section 3, a load transfer element 33 in the form of a wheel 33a is provided. Here, each wheel 33a is connected to the load transfer section 3 via a pivot joint 33b, which defines the axis of rotation of the wheel. If a similar... Figure 1 The simple triangular frame structure shown only requires a single wheel.

[0113] In this embodiment, wheels 33a are disposed inside the two parallel longitudinal beams 11a and 11b and have concentric axes of rotation. Each wheel includes a wheel flange 33c adapted to contact a side surface of the crane boom, which extends at an angle to a receiving surface along which the wheel moves during use, as will be described later. Therefore, as the load-transfer element moves along the receiving surface and displaces relative to the longitudinal beams, the wheel flange can help guide the movement of the wheel and maintain its contact with the receiving surface.

[0114] Lifting supports 15 are respectively provided on the lifting section 2 and the load transfer section 3. The lifting supports are configured to be connected to, for example, a crane, so as to lift and move the extension yoke 1 during handling and transportation. In this embodiment, there are four such lifting supports 15, two on each parallel longitudinal beam 11a, 11b, one at the lifting section 2 and one at the load transfer section 3.

[0115] The crane attachment element 4 is located at the apex of the obtuse angle. In principle, the crane attachment element can be a simple ring or hook, which can be mounted on an additional crossbeam (not shown) extending between the longitudinal beams 11a and 11b; however, in the illustrated embodiment, the crane attachment element is a pulley block receiving element adapted to receive the crane's pulley block. Figures 1 to 3 Only the side plates 41, 41a, and 41b of the pulley block receiving element are shown in the text, and therefore details of the pulley block receiving element 4 will also be shown below. Figure 4 .

[0116] Each side plate 41a, 41b of the pulley block receiving element 4 is pivotally connected to the inside of one of the parallel longitudinal beams 11a, 11b via joints 42, 42a, 42b, such that the extended yoke 1 can rotate about the axis defined by the joints.

[0117] like Figure 4 As shown, multiple connecting members 44, 45 extend between the two side plates 41a, 41b of the pulley block receiving element 4, each connecting member 44, 45 extending into two opposing openings 46, 47 provided in the side plates. Nuts, pins, or other fastening devices can be used to secure the connecting members 44, 45 relative to the side plates.

[0118] In this embodiment, two of the connecting members are elongated crossbars 44 with a square cross-sectional shape that extend parallel to each other on the underside of plates 41a and 41b. Each plate 41a and 41b has a cutout 46 through which each crossbar 44 extends.

[0119] Here, each crossbar 44 is provided with two crossbar supports 44a, which extend substantially perpendicular to the surface of the crossbar and are located near the side plates 41a, 41b in the installed state. Each support 44a has a hole 44b that aligns with a hole 48 in the plates 41a, 41b, such that fasteners, such as bolts, can extend through the two holes 44b, 48 to secure the crossbar 44 to the plates 41a, 41b. Figure 4 In the middle, the crossbar further has a hole 44c for fastening the crossbar 44 to the pulley block of the crane.

[0120] Another connecting member in the form of bar 45 engages with side plates 41a, 41b on its upper side, located above one of the crossbars 44. A corresponding bar (not shown) would be positioned above the other crossbar, but it has been removed here to facilitate the insertion of the crane's pulley block. One or more other connecting members may also be removed when inserting or removing the pulley block receiving element 4 from the pulley block.

[0121] The use of extended yoke 1 in Figures 5 to 7 The diagram shows three different positions of the extension yoke 1 connected to the crane 5.

[0122] exist Figure 5 In this position, the extension yoke 1 is in the hoisted position, and the wheel 33a of the load transfer element 33 has not yet contacted the receiving surface 52 of the crane boom 51. In this position, the extension yoke is suspended from the crane pulley block 56 under the influence of gravity, and the lifting section 2 is substantially vertical. If the relative dimensions and / or weights of the lifting section 2 and the load transfer section 3 are different, the orientation of the extension yoke in this position may differ.

[0123] When the extended yoke 1 is hoisted upwards, the load transfer element 33 contacts the receiving surface 52 of the crane boom 51, such as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0124] Figures 5 to 7 The crane includes a crane base 55, a crane boom 51, a cable 53, a cable wrench 54, and a pulley block 56. The crane base is configured for mounting to the nacelle of a wind turbine (not shown). The distal end of the crane boom 51 is connected to the crane base 55, and the cable wrench 54 is located at the proximal end of the crane boom opposite to the distal end. The cable 53 is guided on the cable wrench 54 and connected to the pulley block 56. Figure 5Only a single cable segment extending between the cable wrench 54 and the pulley block 56 is shown in the diagram, but those skilled in the art will understand that there may be more than one.

[0125] exist Figures 5 to 7 On the downward-facing side of the crane boom 51, there is a substantially flat receiving surface 52. Figures 1 to 4 The wheel 33a of the extended yoke is adapted to engage with the two edges of the plate member (not shown) of the crane boom 51, and the wheel flange 33c is used to engage with the side surface 57 of the crane boom. Figures 5 to 7 Only one side surface is visible. In other embodiments, the downward-facing side of the crane boom 51 can be a plate with a large flat surface for engaging with the load-transfer element 33. In this case, the wheel 33a will not have a wheel flange 33c, or the wheel can be replaced by a roller, ball, etc. In yet another alternative, the receiving surface 52 can be provided with a track adapted to engage with one or more slippers (not shown) used as load-transfer elements.

[0126] exist Figure 5 At the lifting position, the load attachment element 23 is located substantially vertically below the cable wrench 54, and the lifting crane extension Rh from the center of the crane base 55 to the load attachment element 23 is substantially the same as in the case without the extension yoke 1.

[0127] exist Figure 6 In the middle, the contact between the load transfer element 33 and the receiving surface 52 causes the extension yoke 1 to rotate slightly, so that the load attachment element 23 is now further away from the center of the crane base 55 than the cable wrench 54.

[0128] exist Figure 7 In this configuration, the load transfer element 33 has moved on the receiving surface 52, causing the extension yoke to rotate to its fully extended position. Here, the lifting portion 2 has moved horizontally, and the load attachment element 23 is positioned significantly further away from the crane base 55 than the cable wrench 54, thereby extending the crane extension Re to a greater extent than the lifting crane extension Rh.

[0129] List of reference numerals

[0130] 1. Extended yoke

[0131] 11 Parallel longitudinal beams

[0132] 11a First beam

[0133] 11b Second beam

[0134] 12 Stabilized Beams

[0135] 12a First beam

[0136] 12b Second beam

[0137] 13 Crossbeams

[0138] 14 Box Girder

[0139] 15 Lifting bracket

[0140] 2. Improvement Section

[0141] 21 Proximal end

[0142] 22 Remote

[0143] 23 Load attachment elements

[0144] 23a board

[0145] 23b Hook and Loop

[0146] 23c Opening

[0147] 24 Beam Fixed Joint

[0148] 3 Load Transfer Section

[0149] 31 proximal end

[0150] 32 remote

[0151] 33 Load Transmission Element

[0152] 33a wheel

[0153] 33b connector

[0154] 33c wheel flange

[0155] 34a, 34b Inwardly curved portions

[0156] 35a, 35b Outwardly curved sections

[0157] 36 Reinforcing Components

[0158] 4. Crane attachments and pulley block receiving components

[0159] 41 Side panels

[0160] 41a Side plate

[0161] 41b Side plate

[0162] 42 connector

[0163] 42a connector

[0164] 42b connector

[0165] 44 crossbars

[0166] 44a Crossbar Support

[0167] 44b bracket hole

[0168] 44c crossbar hole

[0169] 45 sticks

[0170] 46. ​​Crossbar with slits

[0171] 47 Opening

[0172] 48 Fastener Holes

[0173] 5. Cranes

[0174] 51 Crane boom

[0175] 52 Receiving Surface

[0176] 53 Cables

[0177] 54 Cable wrench

[0178] 55 Crane base

[0179] 56 pulley blocks

[0180] 57 Side surfaces

[0181] α obtuse angle

[0182] Rh lifting position extension range

[0183] Re Extension position outward range

[0184] Ly yoke length

[0185] LTP transmits partial length

[0186] LLP increases the length of the part

[0187] C Central plane

[0188] H horizontal direction

[0189] V (vertical direction)

Claims

1. An extension yoke (1) for a self-elevating wind turbine crane, the extension yoke comprising a frame structure including: Improvement section (2) Load transfer section (3), and At least one crane attachment element (4) is provided between the load transfer section (3) and the lifting section (2), the at least one crane attachment element (4) being configured to establish a pivot connection with the crane (5). The lifting section (2) has a proximal end (21) at the crane attachment element (4), a distal end (22) opposite to the proximal end (21), and a load attachment element (23) at the distal end. The load transfer portion (3) has a proximal end (31) at the crane attachment element (4), a distal end (32) opposite to the proximal end (31), and at least one load transfer element (33) at the distal end (32). The load transfer element (33) is configured to transfer compressive force by pressing against the receiving surface (52) of the crane (5) and to move relative to the receiving surface (52). The load transfer part (3) and the lifting part (2) form an obtuse angle (α) with each other. The extended yoke (1) is characterized in that it further includes at least one stabilizing element (12, 12a, 12b) that interconnects portions of the frame structure, the stabilizing element forming an acute angle with at least one portion, and wherein the load transfer element (33) is configured to displace relative to the receiving surface when in contact with the receiving surface (52) during operation.

2. The extended yoke according to claim 1, wherein, The frame structure includes at least two basic parallel longitudinal beams (11, 11a, 11b).

3. The extended yoke according to claim 2 further includes at least one crossbeam (13) connecting the at least two substantially parallel longitudinal beams (11, 11a, 11b).

4. The extended yoke according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The load attachment element (23) is a hook, loop, hook or clasp hook.

5. The extended yoke according to claim 1, wherein, At least one crane attachment element (4) is disposed on the beam of the frame structure.

6. The extended yoke according to claim 2, wherein, The crane attachment element (4) is a pulley block receiving element, which includes: Two plates (41, 41a, 41b) are each pivotally connected to a longitudinal beam, and At least one connecting member (44, 45) extends between the two plates (41, 41a, 41b).

7. The extended yoke according to claim 1, wherein, The load transfer element (33) includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of: wheel, ball, roller, ball joint, smooth end, smooth end surface, and combinations thereof.

8. The extended yoke according to claim 1, wherein, The load transfer element (33) includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of: a skateboard, a skate shoe, a slider, a friction-reducing coating, and combinations thereof.

9. The extended yoke according to claim 1, wherein, The frame structure comprises beams (11, 11a, 11b, 12, 12a, 12b, 13, 14) made of materials selected from the group consisting of: steel, aluminum, aluminum alloys, cast iron, polymers, carbon composites, and combinations thereof.

10. A self-elevating wind turbine crane, having an extended yoke according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The crane (5) includes: Crane boom (51), which has a receiving surface (52). Pulley system (56), and At least one cable (53) connects the pulley block (56) to the crane boom (51). The extended yoke (1) is pivotally connected to the pulley block (56), and the load transfer element (33) and the receiving surface (52) of the crane (5) are configured to contact each other during operation and to transfer compressive force from the load transfer element (33) to the receiving surface (52).

11. The use of the extension yoke according to any one of claims 1-9 for increasing the overhang of a self-elevating crane, wherein the manner is as follows: The crane attachment element (4) of the extended yoke (1) is pivotally connected to the pulley block (56) of the crane (5). The load is attached to the load attachment element (23). The crane (5) is used to lift the pulley block (56), the extension yoke (1), and the attached load. in, During lifting, the load transfer element (33) at the far end (32) of the load transfer section (3) contacts the receiving surface (52) of the crane boom (51) of the crane (5) and transfers the compressive force to the crane boom (51), and the load transfer element (33) moves along the receiving surface (52) while the extended yoke (1) pivots about the pulley block (56).

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