Wind turbines and methods for manufacturing wind turbines
By designing a ring structure for the main and auxiliary cables in the wind turbine, the movement caused by the nacelle rotation is independently compensated, solving the problems of cable torsion and vertical movement, and improving the reliability and transmission efficiency of the cables.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-02-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-03
AI Technical Summary
In wind turbines, the rotation of the nacelle relative to the tower causes movement of the main and auxiliary cables. Existing technologies struggle to effectively compensate for these movements, especially torsional and vertical movements, leading to cable damage or interference.
The design employs a loop structure for both the main cable and auxiliary cable. The first and second loops independently compensate for the movement caused by the rotation of the nacelle relative to the tower. Separate attachment elements and platform arrangement structures ensure independent movement of the cables and avoid mutual interference.
It effectively compensates for cable torsion and vertical movement caused by nacelle rotation, reduces cable damage and interference, and improves the reliability and power transmission efficiency of wind turbines.
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Figure CN116641857B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to wind turbines and methods for manufacturing wind turbines. Background Technology
[0002] Wind turbines include generators that convert the rotational energy of the rotor into electrical energy. These generators are typically housed in a nacelle atop a large tower. The electrical energy generated in the nacelle is transmitted from the nacelle to the base of the tower via one or more heavy-duty cables. Additionally, auxiliary cables are routed from the nacelle to the middle or base of the tower. These auxiliary cables may include, for example, electrical cables, data cables, etc., for connecting installations within the nacelle.
[0003] In most modern wind turbines, the nacelle is rotatably supported by the top portion of the tower via a yaw bearing, allowing the nacelle to yaw relative to the stationary tower. In this way, the rotor orientation of the wind turbine can be adjusted to the current wind direction. This azimuth rotation of the nacelle can include up to two and a half full rotations (2.5 by 360 degrees) of the nacelle relative to the tower.
[0004] The installation of the main cables that will transfer the energy generated in the rotating nacelle to the bottom section of the stationary tower, as well as any auxiliary cables that will guide the energy from the nacelle to the middle or bottom section of the tower, must take into account the yaw movement of the nacelle relative to the tower. Summary of the Invention
[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide an improved wind turbine and an improved method for manufacturing a wind turbine.
[0006] Therefore, a wind turbine is provided. The wind turbine includes: a tower; a nacelle rotatably supported at the top portion of the tower; a main cable for transmitting electrical energy generated in the nacelle to the bottom portion of the tower; and at least one auxiliary cable leading from the nacelle to an intermediate portion between the top and bottom portions of the tower and / or to the bottom portion of the tower. Furthermore, the main cable includes a first loop, and the at least one auxiliary cable includes a second loop, and the first and second loops are configured to independently compensate for movement of the respective cables due to rotation of the nacelle relative to the tower.
[0007] Rotation of the nacelle relative to the tower causes movement of the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable because the attachment points of these cables in or at the nacelle move relative to the stationary tower. Such movement includes both torsion and vertical movement of the respective cables. Since both the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable include loops within the tower, compensation for the movement of the respective cables caused by the rotation of the nacelle relative to the tower is possible.
[0008] Furthermore, the first and second rings are installed separately from each other, allowing them to independently compensate for the movement. Therefore, movement of the at least one auxiliary cable, including torsional, bending, and / or vertical movement, will not affect movement of the main cable, including torsional, bending, and / or vertical movement, and vice versa. Torsional movement is particularly rotational movement about an axis arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the respective cable and / or the tower height in its erected state. Vertical movement is particularly translational movement in a direction parallel to the tower height.
[0009] The torsional capacity of a cable, such as the permissible torsion per meter, depends on its diameter (thickness) and cable construction. Similarly, the bending capacity of a cable, i.e., the minimum permissible bending radius, also depends on its diameter (thickness) and cable construction. Compared to the at least one auxiliary cable, the main cable typically has a larger diameter and is less flexible. Therefore, compared to the at least one auxiliary cable, the main cable has a smaller permissible torsion per meter and a larger minimum bending radius. Consequently, compared to the at least one auxiliary cable, the main cable requires a larger bending radius in the U-shaped portion (or S-shaped or spiral portion) of its first loop. Furthermore, compared to the at least one auxiliary cable, the main cable requires a larger free suspension length in its first loop to compensate for torsional movement over a greater length. Therefore, since the first and second loops are separate from each other, the second loop can be constructed with a smaller bending radius in its U-shaped portion (or S-shaped or spiral portion) and a shorter free suspension length compared to the first loop.
[0010] A wind turbine is a device that converts the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy. For example, a wind turbine includes: a rotor having one or more blades, each connected to a hub; a nacelle including a generator; and a tower that holds the nacelle at its top. The tower of a wind turbine can be connected to the foundation of the wind turbine, such as a monopile or concrete foundation located on the seabed or in the ground.
[0011] For example, a wind turbine includes a yaw bearing for rotatably supporting the nacelle at the top portion of the tower. A first ring and a second ring are configured to compensate for yaw movement of the nacelle relative to the tower.
[0012] The main cable is, in particular, a power cable. For example, the main cable is a high-voltage cable used to transmit current with voltages higher than 10 kV, higher than 30 kV, and / or higher than 50 kV (e.g., in the range of 32 kV to 72 kV and / or 66 kV).
[0013] Main cables are typically very heavy cables. For example, the weight of a main cable is 10 kg or more per meter, 14 kg or more per meter, 17 kg or more per meter, and / or 20 kg or more per meter.
[0014] For example, the main cable is installed in the tower piece by piece after the tower is erected. Alternatively, the main cable may be installed in sections, for example. For instance, a first section of the main cable may be installed in the lower section of the tower, which includes, for example, a bottom and a first intermediate tower section. Further, a second section of the main cable may be installed in, for example, the upper section of the tower, which includes, for example, a second intermediate tower section and a top tower section.
[0015] The upper end of the main cable is electrically connected, for example, to a generator unit or transformer unit located in the nacelle. The lower end of the main cable is electrically connected, for example, to a switchgear located in the bottom part of the tower (e.g., on a switchgear platform).
[0016] For example, the at least one auxiliary cable may include one or more electrical cables, one or more fiber optic cables, and / or one or more grounding cables. For example, the at least one auxiliary cable may include at least one low-voltage cable for transmitting current with a voltage of less than 1 kV and / or in the range of 12 to 690 V.
[0017] For example, the at least one auxiliary cable is configured to serve one or more electrical and / or electronic devices in the cabin. For example, the at least one auxiliary cable is configured to power the one or more electrical / electronic devices, to provide electrical grounding for the one or more electrical / electronic devices, and / or to transmit data to or from the one or more electrical / electronic devices.
[0018] The upper end of the at least one auxiliary cable is electrically connected, for example, to an interface unit and / or one or more electrical / electronic devices arranged in the nacelle. The lower end of the at least one auxiliary cable is electrically connected, for example, to the middle or bottom portion of the tower.
[0019] The first and second rings are specifically arranged inside the tower.
[0020] The main cable includes a first portion forming a first loop and a second portion continuous with the first portion. Therefore, the main cable including its first loop is a single-piece component. Furthermore, the first portion of the main cable forming the first loop is configured to move in response to nacelle yaw. The second portion of the main cable is arranged after the first portion relative to the direction along the main cable from the nacelle to the bottom of the tower and is unaffected by movement caused by nacelle yaw.
[0021] Similar to the main cable, the at least one auxiliary cable includes a first portion forming a second loop and a second portion continuous with the first portion. Therefore, the at least one auxiliary cable including its second loop is a single-piece component. Furthermore, the first portion of the at least one auxiliary cable forming the second loop is configured to move in response to nacelle yaw. The second portion of the at least one auxiliary cable is arranged after the first portion relative to the direction along the at least one auxiliary cable from the nacelle to the tower's middle / bottom section and is unaffected by movement caused by nacelle yaw.
[0022] According to one embodiment, each of the first ring and the second ring includes, in the direction along the respective cable: an upper attachment point at the nacelle; an intermediate attachment point in the tower for stopping torsional movement of the respective cable; and a lower attachment point in the tower for stopping both torsional and vertical movement of the respective cable.
[0023] Each of the first ring and the second ring includes a free-suspension portion between its upper attachment point and its middle attachment point, and / or a U-shaped portion between its middle attachment point and its lower attachment point.
[0024] For example, the first ring and / or the second ring each include a free-suspension section and a U-shaped section. The free-suspension section and the U-shaped section are, in particular, continuous with each other. For example, the U-shaped section is arranged after the free-suspension section relative to the middle / bottom portion of the respective cable from the nacelle to the tower. For example, the free-suspension section is configured to compensate for torsional and / or vertical movement of the respective cable due to rotation of the nacelle. For example, the U-shaped section is configured to compensate for vertical movement of the respective cable due to rotation of the nacelle. For example, the U-shaped section may not be configured to compensate for torsional movement of the respective cable due to rotation of the nacelle.
[0025] The transition between the free-suspension portion and the U-shaped portion of each of the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable is defined, for example, by an attachment element (e.g., a slider unit) that stops torsional movement but allows vertical movement (e.g., sliding) of the tower. For example, the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable include separate attachment elements for stopping torsional movement but allowing vertical movement of the tower. Having these separate attachment elements allows the first and second loops to be separated from each other.
[0026] An attachment element configured to stop torsional movement but allow vertical movement may include a slider unit having a slider element that slides vertically relative to a slider housing. Alternatively, an attachment element configured to stop torsional movement but allow vertical movement may include an arrangement in which a corresponding cable is fixed to a rotating element capable of rotating about an axis perpendicular to the height of the erected tower.
[0027] For example, the upper attachment point "at the cabin" includes an upper attachment point in the cabin (e.g., in the case of the main cable) and / or an upper attachment point at the bottom portion of the cabin (e.g., in the case of the at least one auxiliary cable).
[0028] In an embodiment, instead of the U-shaped portion, one or both of the first ring and the second ring may also include an S-shaped portion or a spiral portion located between the intermediate attachment point and the lower attachment point.
[0029] According to another embodiment, each of the first ring and the second ring includes a U-shaped portion, and the U-shaped portion of the first ring is arranged at a lower height relative to the tower height than the U-shaped portion of the second ring.
[0030] In an embodiment, instead of the U-shaped portion, one or both of the first ring and the second ring may further include an S-shaped portion or a spiral portion located between its intermediate attachment point and lower attachment point, and the S-shaped portion / spiral portion of the first ring is arranged at a lower height relative to the tower height than the S-shaped portion / spiral portion of the second ring.
[0031] According to another embodiment, each of the first ring and the second ring includes a free-suspension portion, and the cable length of the free-suspension portion of the first ring is greater than the cable length of the free-suspension portion of the second ring.
[0032] The free-suspension portion of the corresponding ring is part of the corresponding cable, which can be twisted to compensate for nacelle yaw.
[0033] Compared to the at least one auxiliary cable, the larger free suspension portion of the first loop of the main cable is advantageous for the main cable having a smaller allowable torsion per meter.
[0034] According to another embodiment, each of the first ring and the second ring includes an attachment point at the nacelle and one or more additional attachment points in the tower, and
[0035] The one or more additional attachment points of the first ring are arranged at a lower height relative to the tower height than the one or more additional attachment points of the second ring.
[0036] Specifically, the first ring is formed by a first cable portion of the main cable, and the second ring is formed by a first cable portion of the at least one auxiliary cable. Furthermore, the upper end of each first cable portion is attached to a corresponding attachment point in the nacelle, and the lower end of each first cable portion is attached to a corresponding additional attachment point in the tower.
[0037] According to another embodiment, the wind turbine includes:
[0038] A first attachment arrangement structure is used to form the first ring in the tower, and / or to attach the first ring at its intermediate attachment point and lower attachment point, and
[0039] A second attachment arrangement structure is used to form the second ring in the tower, and / or to attach the second ring at its intermediate attachment point and lower attachment point.
[0040] The first attachment arrangement structure is positioned at a lower height than the second attachment arrangement structure relative to the tower height.
[0041] Since the first attachment arrangement structure and the second attachment arrangement structure are separate devices, the movement of the first ring and the second ring can be better separated from each other.
[0042] According to another embodiment, the wind turbine includes at least two platforms arranged at different heights within the tower relative to the tower's erected height.
[0043] The U-shaped portion of the first ring is disposed at the lower platform of the at least two platforms, and the U-shaped portion of the second ring is disposed at the higher platform of the at least two platforms, and / or
[0044] The first attachment arrangement structure is arranged at the lower platform of the at least two platforms, and the second attachment arrangement structure is arranged at the higher platform of the at least two platforms.
[0045] In particular, tower platforms that exist in the tower for other purposes, such as tower section platforms, lifting platforms or damper platforms, may be used to arrange the corresponding U-shaped sections and / or corresponding attachment structures.
[0046] For example, the tower includes a lifting platform where the upper end of the tower elevator is located. Furthermore, the upper platform of the at least two platforms is, for example, a lifting platform.
[0047] For example, the tower includes at least the topmost tower section and another tower section, which are bolted to each other at corresponding flanges. Furthermore, the lower platform of the at least two platforms is configured, for example, for bolting the tower sections to each other (so-called tower section platform or bolting platform).
[0048] However, the upper platform and / or lower platform can also be any other platform of the tower.
[0049] According to another embodiment,
[0050] The first attachment arrangement structure and the second attachment arrangement structure respectively include first and second slider units for attaching corresponding rings at their intermediate attachment points and / or for stopping the torsional movement of the corresponding cables.
[0051] Each of the first and second slider units includes a slider housing attached within the tower and a slider element for sliding within the respective slider housing.
[0052] The main cable is attached to the slider element of the first slider unit to provide an intermediate attachment point for the first loop, and
[0053] The at least one auxiliary cable is attached to the slider element of the second slider unit to provide an intermediate attachment point for the second ring.
[0054] The slider housing of each of the first and second slider units is attached, for example, to (e.g., a separate) tower platform.
[0055] The first slider unit is specifically positioned at a lower height (e.g., a lower platform) relative to the tower height than the second slider unit.
[0056] According to another embodiment, the first attachment arrangement structure includes a support structure with a cable tray for attaching and carrying the main cable and / or for providing a lower attachment point for the first ring.
[0057] For example, in the direction along the main cable from the nacelle to the bottom of the tower, the main cable enters the tower, passes through a sliding unit, and then passes through a load-bearing structure. Furthermore, the first loop of the main cable includes a U-shaped section located between the corresponding sliding unit and the cable tray of the load-bearing structure.
[0058] According to another embodiment, the load-bearing structure is pivotally arranged on the platform of the tower, such that it can be folded toward the platform for transport and folded up for operation of the wind turbine.
[0059] Therefore, the load-bearing structure of the first attachment arrangement can be configured to allow workers to walk underneath without obstructing the transport of tower sections including the corresponding platform. Thus, this load-bearing structure can be arranged on a platform also used for other purposes, such as a bolting platform. For example, the load-bearing structure can be folded up during tower assembly and before the operation of the wind turbine.
[0060] According to another embodiment,
[0061] The tower includes one or more separation discs for separating the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable from each other in a region of the free-suspension portion of the first and second rings, wherein the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable extend parallel to each other in the region.
[0062] Each of the one or more separation discs has an annular structure, the annular structure comprising: a central hole having a first radius for inserting the main cable; and at least one additional opening extending radially outward from the central hole to a second radius, wherein an inner wall is disposed at the second radius.
[0063] The at least one auxiliary cable is attached to the inner wall of the at least one additional opening, such that the at least one separation disc follows the movement of the at least one auxiliary cable.
[0064] By separating the main cable from the at least one auxiliary cable, interference between the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable is avoided. Therefore, the movement of the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable can be better separated from each other.
[0065] The separation panel is specifically configured to separate the main cable and the at least one auxiliary cable from each other with respect to a horizontal distance. This horizontal distance is the distance relative to the horizontal direction of the erected tower.
[0066] According to another embodiment, each of the one or more separating discs includes two or more of the additional openings, which are uniformly spaced across the annular structure with respect to angular distance, and / or the at least one additional opening gradually tapers in a radial direction from the second radius to the first radius.
[0067] Therefore, one or more of the at least one auxiliary cable can be attached to each of the two or more additional openings. Arranging the additional openings evenly across the separation disc provides a uniform distribution of the forces acting on the separation disc from the auxiliary cables.
[0068] The at least one auxiliary cable can be better separated from the main cable by the radial direction of the at least one additional opening, which gradually tapers from the second radius to the first radius.
[0069] According to another embodiment, the wind turbine includes a generator unit arranged in the nacelle for converting rotational energy into electrical energy and a transformer unit for converting the electrical energy from a low-voltage state to a high-voltage state, wherein the main cable is electrically connected to the transformer unit at its upper end for transmitting the electrical energy in a high-voltage state toward the bottom portion of the tower.
[0070] Because the transformer unit is located in the nacelle, rather than, for example, in the bottom portion of the tower, the main cable is configured to transmit electrical energy at high voltage toward the bottom portion of the tower. Since high-voltage cables are typically very thick and have a small allowable twist per meter, it is particularly advantageous in this case to move the main cable and separate it from at least one auxiliary cable.
[0071] According to another aspect, a method for manufacturing a wind turbine is provided. The wind turbine includes: a tower; a nacelle rotatably supported at a top portion of the tower; a main cable for transmitting electrical energy generated in the nacelle to a bottom portion of the tower; and at least one auxiliary cable leading from the nacelle to an intermediate portion between the top and bottom portions of the tower and / or the bottom portion of the tower. Furthermore, the main cable includes a first loop, and the at least one auxiliary cable includes a second loop. The method includes the following steps:
[0072] The at least one auxiliary cable with the second loop is installed in the tower.
[0073] Erecting the tower, and
[0074] The main cable having the first ring is installed in the tower, wherein the first ring and the second ring are configured to independently compensate for the movement of the respective cables caused by the rotation of the nacelle relative to the tower during the operation of the wind turbine.
[0075] Therefore, the at least one auxiliary cable, including its second loop, can be installed in the tower before the tower is erected and before the main cable is installed. For example, the at least one auxiliary cable, including its second loop, can be installed in the tower at a manufacturing site and / or manufacturing workshop, away from the wind turbine erection site / wind collection site.
[0076] Installing the at least one auxiliary cable with a second loop in the tower includes, for example, installing a second attachment arrangement in the tower (e.g., at the tower platform) and attaching the at least one auxiliary cable to the attachment arrangement such that a second loop is formed. For example, this includes attaching the at least one auxiliary cable to a slide unit and / or cable tray of a load-bearing structure of the attachment arrangement.
[0077] The at least one auxiliary cable with a second ring can also be installed in a tower section of the tower. In this case, tower erection may involve assembling the tower from two or more tower sections.
[0078] According to another embodiment,
[0079] The wind turbine includes at least two platforms arranged at different heights within the tower.
[0080] Installing the main cable with the first loop in the tower includes forming the first loop by means of a first attachment arrangement structure arranged on the lower of the at least two platforms, and
[0081] Installing the at least one auxiliary cable with the second ring in the tower includes forming the second ring by means of a second attachment arrangement structure arranged at the higher of the at least two platforms.
[0082] The embodiments and features described with reference to the wind turbine of the present invention, with necessary modifications, are also applicable to the method of the present invention.
[0083] Other possible embodiments or alternatives to the invention also encompass combinations of features not explicitly mentioned herein, as described above or below with reference to embodiments. Those skilled in the art can also add individual or isolated aspects and features to the most basic form of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0084] Other embodiments, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and dependent claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0085] Figure 1 A wind turbine according to an embodiment is shown;
[0086] Figure 2 The diagram shows the main cable and auxiliary cable. Figure 1 The tower of a wind turbine;
[0087] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 The first loop of the main cable;
[0088] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 The second loop of the auxiliary cable;
[0089] Figure 5 It shows the relationship with Figure 3 A similar view, illustrating the length of the cable portion forming the first loop;
[0090] Figure 6 It shows the relationship with Figure 4A similar view, illustrating the length of the cable portion forming the second loop;
[0091] Figure 7 A diagram is shown for attaching the main cable to form Figure 3 The first attachment arrangement structure of the first ring shown;
[0092] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 The first slider unit of the attachment arrangement structure;
[0093] Figure 9 A diagram is shown for attaching auxiliary cables to form Figure 4 The second slider unit of the second attachment arrangement structure of the second ring shown in the figure;
[0094] Figure 10 A separation reel for separating the main cable and auxiliary cable is shown; and
[0095] Figure 11 The illustration shows a method for manufacturing according to an embodiment. Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for developing a wind turbine.
[0096] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals denote the same or functionally equivalent elements. Detailed Implementation
[0097] Figure 1 A wind turbine 1 according to an embodiment is shown. The wind turbine 1 includes a rotor 2 having one or more blades 3 connected to a hub 4. The hub 4 is connected to a generator unit 5 arranged within a nacelle 6. During operation of the wind turbine 1, the blades 3 are driven to rotate by wind, and the kinetic energy of the wind is converted into electrical energy by the generator unit 5. The wind turbine 1 may also include a transformer unit 7 connected to the generator unit 5 and arranged in the nacelle 6. The transformer unit 7 is configured to convert the electrical energy generated by the generator unit 5 from a low-voltage state (e.g., below 1 kV) to a high-voltage state (e.g., above 10 kV and / or above 30 kV).
[0098] Cabin 6 via yaw bearing 8 ( Figure 2 The tower 11 of the wind turbine 1 is located at the top portion 9 (i.e., the upper end 10). The tower 11 is erected on a foundation 12, which is, for example, a concrete foundation or monopile driven into the ground or seabed.
[0099] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A partial enlarged view of the tower 11 and nacelle 6 of the wind turbine 1.
[0100] The nacelle 6 is rotatably supported by a yaw bearing 8 at the top portion 9 of the tower 11. Therefore, the nacelle 6 can rotate relative to the stationary tower 11 to adjust the orientation of the rotor 2 to the current wind direction. For example, the azimuth rotation of the nacelle 6 may include up to two and a half full rotations (2.5 x 360 degrees) of the nacelle 6 relative to the tower 11.
[0101] The wind turbine 1 also includes a main cable 13, which is used to transmit electrical energy generated in the nacelle 6, particularly by the generator unit 5, to the bottom portion 14 of the tower 11. In particular, the main cable 13 is a high-voltage cable.
[0102] The upper end 15 of the main cable 13 is electrically connected, for example, to a generator unit 5 or a transformer unit 7 arranged in the engine room 6. Figure 2 In the example shown, the upper end 15 of the main cable 13 is connected to the transformer unit 7. In other examples, the main cable 13 may also be directly connected to the generator unit 5.
[0103] The lower end 16 of the main cable 13 is electrically connected, for example, to a switch 17 in the bottom portion 14 of the tower 11 (e.g., on the switch platform 18).
[0104] The wind turbine 1 also includes at least one auxiliary cable 19. For example, the at least one auxiliary cable 19 includes one or more electrical cables, one or more fiber optic cables, and / or one or more grounding cables. For example, the at least one auxiliary cable 19 includes at least one low-voltage cable for transmitting current in a voltage range below 1 kV.
[0105] For example, the at least one auxiliary cable 19 is configured to serve one or more electrical and / or electronic devices (not shown) in the service cabin 6.
[0106] Although only one auxiliary cable 19 is shown in the accompanying drawings and the following description refers to a single auxiliary cable 19, it is to be understood that the wind turbine 1 may include several auxiliary cables 19.
[0107] The upper end 20 of the auxiliary cable 19 is electrically connected, for example, to an interface unit 21 arranged in the cabin 6. The upper end 20 of the auxiliary cable 19 may also be electrically connected to one or more electrical / electronic devices (not shown) arranged in the cabin 6.
[0108] The lower end 22 of the auxiliary cable 19 is electrically connected, for example, to the intermediate portion 23 between the top portion and the bottom portions 9, 14 of the tower 11, or to the bottom portion 14 of the tower 11. The lower end 22 of the auxiliary cable 19 is electrically connected, for example, to another interface unit 24 arranged in the bottom portion 14 of the tower 11 (e.g., on the switch platform 18 or another platform).
[0109] Since both the upper end 15 of the main cable 13 and the upper end 20 of the auxiliary cable 19 are attached to the nacelle 6, the rotation (yaw) of the nacelle 6 relative to the tower 11 causes movement of the main cable 13 and the auxiliary cable 19. Such movement includes twisting of the respective cables 13 and 19 as well as vertical movement.
[0110] To compensate for the movement of the corresponding cables 13 and 19 caused by the rotation of the nacelle 6 relative to the tower 11, the main cable 13 and the auxiliary cable 19 each include a loop. Specifically, the main cable 13 includes a first loop 25, and the auxiliary cable 19 includes a second loop 26, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown in the diagram. Advantageously, the first ring 25 and the second ring 26 are separated from each other, so that they can independently compensate for the movement of the respective cables 13, 19.
[0111] Figure 3 An enlarged view of the first ring 25 is shown. The first ring 25 is formed by a portion 66 of the main cable 13. The first ring 25 includes: an upper attachment point 27 in the nacelle 6; an intermediate attachment point 28 in the tower 11 for stopping torsional movement of the main cable 13; and a lower attachment point 29 in the tower 11 for stopping both torsional and vertical movement of the main cable 13. The upper attachment point 27, the intermediate attachment point 28, and the lower attachment point 29 are upper, intermediate, and lower attachment points relative to direction D along the main cable 13 from the nacelle 6 to the bottom portion 14 of the tower 11.
[0112] Furthermore, the first ring 25 includes a free-suspension portion 30 located between its upper attachment point 27 and intermediate attachment point 28. Additionally, the first ring 25 includes a U-shaped portion 31 located between its intermediate attachment point 28 and lower attachment point 29. Although not shown in the figures, instead of the U-shaped portion 31, the first ring 25 may also include an S-shaped portion or a spiral portion located between its intermediate attachment point 28 and lower attachment point 29.
[0113] Figure 4 An enlarged view of the second ring 26 is shown. The second ring 26 is formed by a portion 32 of the auxiliary cable 19. The second ring 26 includes: an upper attachment point 33 at the nacelle 6; an intermediate attachment point 34 in the tower 11 for stopping the torsional movement of the auxiliary cable 19; and a lower attachment point 35 in the tower 11 for stopping the torsional and vertical movement of the auxiliary cable 19. The upper attachment point 33, the intermediate attachment point 34, and the lower attachment point 35 are upper, intermediate, and lower attachment points relative to direction D along the auxiliary cable 19 from the nacelle 6 to the middle or bottom portion 23, 14 of the tower 11.
[0114] Furthermore, the second ring 26 includes a free-suspension portion 36 located between its upper attachment point 33 and intermediate attachment point 34. Additionally, the second ring 26 includes a U-shaped portion 37 located between its intermediate attachment point 34 and lower attachment point 35. Although not shown in the figures, instead of the U-shaped portion 37, the second ring 26 may also include an S-shaped portion or a spiral portion located between its intermediate attachment point 34 and lower attachment point 35.
[0115] The first ring 25 and the second ring 26 are separated from each other so that they can independently compensate for the movement of the corresponding cables 13, 19 caused by the rotation of the nacelle 6 relative to the tower 11.
[0116] Specifically, the heights H2, H2', and H2'' of the second ring 26 ( Figure 2 , Figure 4 Compared to this, the first ring 25 is positioned at lower heights H1, H1', and H1''. Figure 2 , Figure 3 At point ), specifically, heights H1, H1', H1'' and H2, H2', H2'' are heights relative to the tower height H of the erected tower 11.
[0117] For example, the U-shaped portion 31 of the first ring 25 is arranged at a lower height H1 compared to the height H2 of the U-shaped portion 37 of the second ring 26.
[0118] For example, the intermediate attachment point 28 of the first ring 25 (e.g., at the first slider unit) is arranged at a lower height H1' compared to the height H2' of the intermediate attachment point 34 of the second ring 26 (e.g., at the second slider unit).
[0119] For example, the lower attachment point 29 of the first ring 25 (e.g., at the cable tray of the load-bearing structure) is arranged at a lower height H1" compared to the height H2" of the lower attachment point 35 of the second ring 26.
[0120] In addition, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the cable length L1 of the free suspension portion 30 of the first ring 25 is, for example, greater than the cable length L2 of the free suspension portion 36 of the second ring 26, taking into account the different torsional capacities (i.e., the allowable torsional force per meter) of the main cable 13 and the auxiliary cable 19. Furthermore, the total cable length L1' of the first ring 25 is, for example, greater than the total cable length L2' of the free suspension portion 36 of the second ring 26.
[0121] Furthermore, the bending radius R1 of the first ring 25 is, for example, greater than the bending radius R2 of the second ring 26, thus taking into account the different bending capabilities of the main cable 13 and the auxiliary cable 19.
[0122] To enable the separation and independent movement of the first loop 25 of the main cable 13 and the second loop 26 of the auxiliary cable 19, the wind turbine 1 includes two separate attachment arrangements 38 and 39. Specifically, the wind turbine 1 includes a first attachment arrangement 38 for forming the first loop 25. Figure 7 , Figure 8 Furthermore, the wind turbine 1 includes a second attachment arrangement structure 39 for forming the second ring 26. Figure 9 ).
[0123] Attachment structures 38 and 39 are arranged within tower 11. For example, attachment structures 38 and 39 are each arranged on separate tower platforms 40 and 41. Figure 2 These two platforms 40 and 41 are specifically positioned at different heights H1' and H2' within tower 11. Figure 2 In the example shown, the first attachment arrangement structure 38 is arranged at platform 40, which is, for example, a tower section platform. Furthermore, the second attachment arrangement structure 39 is exemplarily arranged at platform 41, which is, for example, a lifting platform of tower 11. In other examples, the first and second attachment arrangements 38, 39 may also be located on other platforms (not shown) of tower 11.
[0124] like Figure 7 As shown, the first attachment arrangement structure 38 includes a first slider unit 42, which is used to provide an intermediate attachment point 28 of the first ring 25. Figure 3 The first slider unit 42 is configured to stop the torsional movement of the main cable 13. The first slider unit 42 includes a slider housing 43. Figure 8 The first slider unit 42 is attached to the tower 11, for example, to the platform 40. The first slider unit 42 also includes a slider element 44 for sliding within the slider housing 43. The intermediate portion 45 of the first ring 25 is attached to the slider element 44 of the first slider unit 42. Since the first ring 25 is fixedly attached to the slider element 44 at its intermediate portion 45, the torsional movement of the main cable 13 caused by the sway of the nacelle 6 stops at the first slider unit 42. Furthermore, since the slider element 44 slides within the slider housing 43 in the height direction H of the tower 11, the cable portion 66 of the main cable 13 forming the first ring 25 (… Figure 3 Vertical movement is still possible.
[0125] Instead of the first slider unit 42, the first attachment arrangement 38 may also include another attachment element configured to stop torsional movement but allow vertical movement of the main cable 13.
[0126] like Figure 7As shown, the first attachment arrangement 38 also includes a support structure 46 having a cable tray 47 for attaching and carrying the main cable 13. Specifically, the support structure 46 is configured to attach and secure the lower end 48 of the first ring 25. For example, the lower end 48 of the first ring 25 is secured to the cable tray 47 by means of one or more clamps 49. The cable tray 47 specifically provides a lower attachment point 29 for the first ring 25. Figure 3 Due to the cable portion 66 forming the first loop 25 of the main cable 13 ( Figure 3 The lower end 48 of the main cable 13 is fixedly attached to the cable tray 47, so any movement of the main cable 13 caused by the sway of the nacelle 6 stops at the cable tray 47.
[0127] The load-bearing structure 46 can be pivotally arranged on the platform 40 such that it can be folded toward the platform 40 for transport, and folded up during the assembly of the tower 11 and before the commencement of operation of the wind turbine 1. For example, the load-bearing structure 46 includes a frame 50 comprising a plurality of beams 51 for supporting the cable tray 47. These beams 51 extend specifically from the base plate 52 of the platform 40 to the cable tray 47. For example, the frame 50 includes a plurality of plates 53 fixed to the base plate 52 of the platform 40. For example, each plate 53 is connected to a corresponding beam 51 by means of a hinge element 54. In this way, the load-bearing structure 46 can pivot toward the platform 40 for transport of the platform 40.
[0128] Similar to the first attachment arrangement 38, the second attachment arrangement 39 also includes a second slider unit 55, which provides an intermediate attachment point 34 for the second ring 26. Figure 4 The second slider unit 55 is configured to stop the torsional movement of the auxiliary cable 19. The second slider unit 55 includes a slider housing 56. Figure 9 The second slide unit 55 also includes a slide element 57 for sliding within the slide housing 56. The middle portion 58 of the second ring 26 is attached to the slide element 57 of the second slide unit 55. Since the second ring 26 is fixedly attached to the slide element 57 at its middle portion 58, the torsional movement of the auxiliary cable caused by the yaw of the nacelle 6 stops at the second slide unit 55. In addition, since the slide element 57 is capable of sliding within the slide housing 56 in the height direction H of the tower 11, vertical movement of the cable portion 32 of the auxiliary cable 19 forming the second ring 26 is still possible.
[0129] Instead of the second slider unit 55, the second attachment arrangement structure 39 may also include another attachment element configured to stop torsional movement but allow vertical movement of the auxiliary cable 19.
[0130] The second attachment arrangement structure 39 further includes a fixing element 59. Figure 6 It is used to provide the lower attachment point 35 of the second ring 26 and to stop any movement of the cable portion 32 forming the second ring 26.
[0131] like Figure 2 and Figure 10 As shown, the wind turbine 1 and / or tower 11 may also include one or more separation discs 60. The separation discs 60 are configured to separate the main cable 13 and the auxiliary cable 19 from each other with respect to a distance perpendicular to the height direction H. The separation discs 60 are particularly used in the regions of the free-suspension portions 30, 36 of the first ring 25 and the second ring 26, in which the main cable 13 and the auxiliary cable 19 extend parallel to each other.
[0132] like Figure 10 As shown, each of the one or more separating discs 60 has an annular structure 61, which includes a central hole 62 and at least one additional opening 63. Figure 10 In the example shown, the separating disk 60 has three additional openings 63. In other examples, the separating disk 60 may also have more or fewer than three additional openings 63. In the case of more than one additional opening 63, the additional openings 63 may be uniformly spaced across the annular structure 61 with respect to an angular distance Δα.
[0133] The intermediate hole 62 has a first radius P1 and is configured for inserting the main cable 13. The main cable 13 can move freely within the intermediate hole 62. In particular, the main cable 13 is not attached to the intermediate hole 62.
[0134] Furthermore, the at least one additional opening 63 extends radially outward from the central hole 62 to a second radius P2. The at least one additional opening 63 is configured for inserting and securing the at least one auxiliary cable 19.
[0135] Specifically, each of the at least one additional opening 63 includes an inner wall 64 disposed at a second radius P2 and perpendicular to the radial direction P of the annular structure 61. Figure 10 In the drawing, two of the three inner walls 64 are indicated by reference numerals. The at least one auxiliary cable 19 is attached to the inner wall 64 of the at least one additional opening 63, such that the at least one separation disc 60 follows the movement of the at least one auxiliary cable 19. For example, one or more of the at least one auxiliary cable 19 can be attached to each of the at least one additional opening 63. For example, the separation disc 60 includes clamps 65 located in each additional opening 63 for attaching one or more auxiliary cables 19. Figure 10In the example shown is a clamp 65. Furthermore, each additional opening 63 may gradually taper in the radial direction P from the second radius P2 to the first radius P1.
[0136] By using one or more separation discs 60 to separate the main cable 13 and the at least one auxiliary cable 19 from each other, interference between the main cable 13 and the at least one auxiliary cable 19 in the area above the second ring 26 is avoided.
[0137] In the following text, regarding Figure 11 A method for manufacturing a wind turbine 1 according to an embodiment is described. The wind turbine 1 includes: a tower 11; a nacelle 6 rotatably supported at a top portion 9 of the tower 11; a main cable 13 for transmitting electrical energy generated in the nacelle 6 to a bottom portion 14 of the tower 11; and at least one auxiliary cable 19 guided from the nacelle 6 to an intermediate portion 23 between the top and bottom portions 9, 14 of the tower 11 or to the bottom portion 14 of the tower 11. Furthermore, the main cable 13 includes a first loop 25, and the at least one auxiliary cable 19 includes a second loop 26.
[0138] In the first step S1 of the method, the at least one auxiliary cable 19 having a second loop 26 is installed in the tower 11.
[0139] The wind turbine 1 may include at least two platforms 40, 41, which are arranged at different heights H1', H2' within the tower 11. In this case, step S2 may include attaching the lower end of the cable portion 32 configured to form a second loop 26 to a second attachment arrangement structure 39 arranged at the higher platform 41 of the at least two platforms 40, 41.
[0140] In the second step S2 of the method, the tower 11 is erected.
[0141] In the third step S3 of the method, the main cable 13 with the first loop 25 is installed in the tower 11. The first loop 25 and the second loop 26 are configured to independently compensate for the movement of the respective cables 13, 19 caused by the rotation of the nacelle 6 relative to the tower 11 during the operation of the wind turbine 1.
[0142] In the case where the wind turbine 1 includes at least two platforms 40, 41 arranged at different heights H1', H2' within the tower 11, step S3 may include attaching the middle portion 45 and / or the lower end 48 of the cable portion 66 configured to form a first loop 25 to a first attachment arrangement structure 38 arranged at the lower platform 40 of the at least two platforms 40, 41.
[0143] Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications are possible in all embodiments.
[0144] Figure label:
[0145] 1. Wind turbine
[0146] 2 rotors
[0147] 3 blades
[0148] 4-wheel hub
[0149] 5 Generator Unit
[0150] 6. Cabin
[0151] 7 Transformer Unit
[0152] 8. Runout bearing
[0153] 9. Top section
[0154] 10. Top
[0155] 11 Towers
[0156] 12 Basics
[0157] 13 Main cable
[0158] 14 Bottom section
[0159] 15. Top
[0160] 16 Lower end
[0161] 17 Switching device
[0162] 18 Platform
[0163] 19 Auxiliary cables
[0164] 20 Top
[0165] 21 Interface Unit
[0166] 22 Lower end
[0167] 23 Middle section
[0168] 24 Interface Units
[0169] 25 First Ring
[0170] 26 Second Ring
[0171] 27 Upper attachment point
[0172] 28 Intermediate attachment point
[0173] 29 Lower attachment point
[0174] 30 Free suspension section
[0175] 31 U-shaped section
[0176] 32 Cable Section
[0177] 33 Upper attachment point
[0178] 34 Intermediate attachment point
[0179] 35 Lower attachment point
[0180] 36. Free suspension section
[0181] 37 U-shaped section
[0182] 38 First Attachment Arrangement Structure
[0183] 39 Second Attachment Arrangement Structure
[0184] 40 Platforms
[0185] 41 Platform
[0186] 42 First slider unit
[0187] 43 Slider housing
[0188] 44 Slider Components
[0189] 45 Middle section
[0190] 46 Load-bearing structure
[0191] 47 Cable trays
[0192] 48 Lower end
[0193] 49 Fixtures
[0194] 50 frames
[0195] 51 Liang
[0196] 52 base plate
[0197] 53 boards
[0198] 54 Hinge Components
[0199] 55 Second Slider Unit
[0200] 56 Slider housing
[0201] 57 Slider Components
[0202] 58 Middle section
[0203] 59 Fixing Components
[0204] 60 Separator
[0205] 61. Ring structure
[0206] 62 Center hole
[0207] 63 Opening
[0208] 64 wall
[0209] 65 Fixture
[0210] 66 Cable Section
[0211] Δα angular distance
[0212] D direction
[0213] H direction
[0214] H1 height
[0215] H1' Height
[0216] H1" height
[0217] H2 height
[0218] H2' height
[0219] H2" height
[0220] R1 radius
[0221] R2 radius
[0222] P direction
[0223] P1 radius
[0224] P2 radius
[0225] S1-S3 Method Steps.
Claims
1. A wind turbine (1), comprising: Tower (11); nacelle (6) rotatably supported at the top portion (9) of the tower (11); main cable (13) for transmitting electrical energy generated in the nacelle (6) to the bottom portion (14) of the tower (11); and at least one auxiliary cable (19) leading from the nacelle (6) to an intermediate portion (23) between the top portion (9) and the bottom portion (14) of the tower (11) and / or to the bottom portion (14) of the tower (11), wherein the main cable (13) includes a first loop (25), and the at least one auxiliary cable (19) includes a second loop (26), and the first loop (25) and the second loop (26) are configured to independently compensate for movement of the respective cables (13, 19) due to rotation of the nacelle (6) relative to the tower (11). Each of the first ring (25) and the second ring (26) includes, in the direction (D) along the respective cable (13, 19): an upper attachment point (27, 33) at the nacelle (6); an intermediate attachment point (28, 34) in the tower (11) for stopping the torsional movement of the respective cable (13, 19); and a lower attachment point (29, 35) in the tower (11) for stopping the torsional and vertical movement of the respective cable (13, 19); and Each of the first ring (25) and the second ring (26) includes a free suspension portion (30, 36) between its upper attachment point and its middle attachment point, and the cable length (L1) of the free suspension portion (30) of the first ring (25) is greater than the cable length (L2) of the free suspension portion (36) of the second ring (26).
2. The wind turbine according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first ring (25) and the second ring (26) includes a U-shaped portion (31, 37) between its intermediate attachment point (28, 34) and lower attachment point (29, 35).
3. The wind turbine according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first ring (25) and the second ring (26) includes a U-shaped portion (31, 37), and the U-shaped portion (31) of the first ring (25) is arranged at a lower height (H1) relative to the tower height (H) than the U-shaped portion (37) of the second ring (26).
4. The wind turbine according to claim 2, wherein, The U-shaped portion (31) of the first ring (25) is arranged at a lower height (H1) than the U-shaped portion (37) of the second ring (26) relative to the tower height (H).
5. The wind turbine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each of the first ring (25) and the second ring (26) includes attachment points (27, 33) at the nacelle (6) and one or more additional attachment points (28, 29, 34, 35) on the tower (11), and The one or more additional attachment points (28, 29) of the first ring (25) are arranged at a height (H1', H1") lower than the one or more additional attachment points (34, 35) of the second ring (26) relative to the tower height (H).
6. The wind turbine according to claim 2, comprising: A first attachment arrangement structure (38) is used to form the first ring (25) in the tower (11), and / or to attach the first ring (25) at its intermediate attachment point (28) and lower attachment point (29), and A second attachment arrangement structure is used to form the second ring (26) in the tower (11), and / or to attach the second ring (26) at its intermediate attachment point (34) and lower attachment point (35). The first attachment arrangement structure (38) is located at a lower height (H1', H1'') than the second attachment arrangement structure (39) relative to the tower height (H).
7. The wind turbine according to claim 6, comprising at least two platforms (40, 41) arranged at different heights (H1', H2') within the tower (11) relative to the tower height (H) in its erected state, wherein... The U-shaped portion (31) of the first ring (25) is arranged at the lower platform (40) of the at least two platforms (40, 41), and the U-shaped portion (37) of the second ring (26) is arranged at the higher platform (41) of the at least two platforms (40, 41), and / or The first attachment arrangement structure (38) is arranged at the lower platform (40) of the at least two platforms (40, 41), and the second attachment arrangement structure (39) is arranged at the higher platform (41) of the at least two platforms (40, 41).
8. The wind turbine according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The first attachment arrangement structure (38) and the second attachment arrangement structure (39) respectively include a first slider unit (42) and a second slider unit (55) for attaching corresponding rings (25, 26) at their intermediate attachment points (28, 34) and / or for stopping the torsional movement of the corresponding cables (13, 19). Each of the first slider unit (42) and the second slider unit (55) includes a slider housing (43, 56) attached to the tower (11) and a slider element (44, 57) for sliding in the respective slider housing (43, 56). The main cable (13) is attached to the slider element (44) of the first slider unit (42) to provide the intermediate attachment point (28) of the first ring (25), and The at least one auxiliary cable (19) is attached to the slider element (57) of the second slider unit (55) to provide the intermediate attachment point (34) of the second ring (26).
9. The wind turbine according to claim 7, wherein, The first attachment arrangement structure (38) includes a support structure (46) with a cable tray (47) for attaching and carrying the main cable (13) and / or for providing the lower attachment point (29) of the first ring (25).
10. The wind turbine according to claim 9, wherein, The load-bearing structure (46) is pivotally arranged on the platform (40) of the tower (11) so that it can be folded toward the platform (40) for transport and folded up for operation of the wind turbine (1).
11. The wind turbine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The tower (11) includes one or more separation discs (60) for separating the main cable (13) and the at least one auxiliary cable (19) from each other in the region of the free-suspension portions (30, 36) of the first ring (25) and the second ring (26), in which the main cable (13) and the at least one auxiliary cable (19) extend parallel to each other. Each of the one or more separation discs (60) has an annular structure (61) comprising: a central hole (62) having a first radius (P1) for inserting the main cable (13); and at least one additional opening (63) extending radially outward from the central hole (62) to a second radius (P2), wherein an inner wall (64) is disposed at the second radius (P2), and The at least one auxiliary cable (19) is attached to the inner wall (64) of the at least one additional opening (63) such that the at least one separation disc (60) follows the movement of the at least one auxiliary cable (19).
12. The wind turbine according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the one or more separation discs (60) includes two or more of the additional openings (63) that are uniformly spaced across the annular structure (61) with respect to an angular distance (Δα), and / or the at least one additional opening (63) tapers gradually in the radial direction (P) from the second radius (P2) to the first radius (P1).
13. The wind turbine according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a generator unit (5) arranged in the nacelle (6) for converting rotational energy into electrical energy and a transformer unit (7) for converting the electrical energy from a low-voltage state to a high-voltage state, wherein, The main cable (13) is electrically connected to the transformer unit (7) at its upper end (10) for transmitting electrical energy under high voltage toward the bottom portion (14) of the tower (11).
14. A method for manufacturing a wind turbine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising the following steps: The at least one auxiliary cable (19) having the second ring (26) is installed (S1) in the tower (11). Erecting (S2) the tower (11), and The main cable (13) with the first ring (25) is installed (S3) in the tower (11), wherein the first ring (25) and the second ring (26) are configured to independently compensate for the movement of the respective cables (13, 19) caused by the rotation of the nacelle (6) relative to the tower (11) during the operation of the wind turbine (1).
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The wind turbine includes at least two platforms (40, 41) arranged at different heights (H1', H2') within the tower (11). The installation (S3) of the main cable (13) having the first ring (25) in the tower (11) includes forming the first ring (25) by means of a first attachment arrangement structure (38) arranged on the lower platform (40) of the at least two platforms (40, 41), and The installation (S1) of the at least one auxiliary cable (19) having the second ring (26) in the tower (11) includes forming the second ring (26) by means of a second attachment arrangement structure (39) arranged at the higher platform (41) of the at least two platforms (40, 41).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Power cable installation in a wind turbine tower
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