Assembly, arrangement, kit of gearbox of wind turbine, gearbox of wind turbine, method of transporting assembly of gearbox and method of assembling wind turbine

Abstract

In at least one embodiment, an assembly (10) of a gearbox (11) of a wind turbine comprises a housing element (1), a rotating element (2), a bearing (3), a first connection feature (41) for connecting the housing element to a connection element, and a second connection feature (42) for connecting the rotating element to the connection element. The rotating element is arranged in a rotatable manner relative to the housing element by means of a bearing. At least one of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is configured to form a movable form-fitting connection such that relative axial movement between the rotation element and the housing element is prevented when the housing element and the rotation element are connected to the connection element by means of the first connection feature and the second connection feature, however, relative rotation between the rotating element and the housing element is achieved.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Wind turbines with wind turbine rotor blades are widely known in the prior art and are used to convert wind energy into electrical energy. A wind turbine comprises a number of components. The gearbox of a wind turbine is usually implemented as a planetary gearbox. The planet carrier is rotatably arranged inside the gearbox housing by means of bearings, for example supported in a rotatable manner by bearings. These bearings, such as cylindrical roller bearings, are usually not suitable for withstanding high axial loads. However, during transport and assembly, the planet carrier is usually subjected to loads which tend to axially displace the planet carrier and the inner ring of the bearing so that the rolling elements of the bearing are axially displaced towards one bearing seat. In operation, an additional displacement towards the bearing seat, which may be caused, for example, by structural deformations, may lead to excessively high axial loads on the bearing, which means a reduction in the bearing life and therefore a reduction in the gearbox life. Summary of the invention

[0002] One object to be achieved is to provide an improved assembly for a gearbox of a wind turbine, for example an assembly that can be transported and / or assembled with reduced risk of damage and that increases bearing life. Other objects to be achieved are to provide a device with such an assembly, a kit with such an assembly, a gearbox with such an assembly, a method for transporting such an assembly and a method for assembling a wind turbine using such an assembly.

[0003] These objects are achieved in particular by the subject matter and methods according to claims 1, 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are subject to the dependent claims and can also be taken from the following description and the drawings.

[0004] First, a component of a gearbox for a wind turbine is described in detail. The component may already be part of a gearbox or may be assembled with other components to form a gearbox.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, a component of a gearbox for a wind turbine includes a housing element, a rotating element, a bearing, a first connection feature for connecting the housing element to the connecting element, and a second connection feature for connecting the rotating element to the connecting element. The rotating element is arranged in a rotatable manner relative to the housing element by means of the bearing. At least one of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is configured to form a movable form-fit connection, so that when the housing element and the rotating element are connected to the connecting element by means of the first connection feature and the second connection feature, relative axial movement between the rotating element and the housing element is prevented, but relative rotation between the rotating element and the housing element is achieved.

[0006] The invention is based in particular on the recognition that when both the housing element and the rotating element are connected to the connecting element, the assembly can be transported or assembled without the risk of axial displacement of the rotating element and corresponding damage to the bearing. At the same time, the housing element and the rotating element can still be rotated relative to each other, which makes assembly and / or transportation easier. In particular, if such a relative rotation is required during assembly or transportation, it is not necessary to release the connection to the connecting element.

[0007] The rotating element is arranged in a rotatable manner relative to the housing element, i.e. the rotating element can rotate around the rotation axis relative to the housing element. For example, the rotating element is arranged to rotate completely around the rotation axis, i.e. 360° or more. The bearing can support the rotating element in a rotatable manner relative to the housing element.

[0008] Here and in the following, the axial direction or longitudinal direction is defined as a direction parallel to the axis of rotation. The radial direction is a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation and passing through the axis of rotation. An inward radial direction points toward the axis of rotation. An outward radial direction points away from the axis of rotation. The rotational direction, also called circumferential direction or azimuthal direction, is perpendicular to both the axial direction and the radial direction. In other words, the rotational direction is a direction around the axis of rotation.

[0009] The housing element may surround at least the first portion of the rotating element and / or the bearing in the radial direction, for example, may completely surround the first portion of the rotating element and / or the bearing in the radial direction. Thus, the housing element may be arranged radially outward relative to the first portion of the rotating element, and when viewed from the outside of the housing element in the radially inward direction, at least the first portion of the rotating element is covered by the housing element. For example, when viewed in the radially inward direction, the bearing is completely covered by the bearing element.

[0010] The second portion of the rotation element may extend axially beyond the housing element such that the second portion is not covered by the housing element when viewed in radially inward direction.The second portion of the rotation element may be configured to be connected to a generator of a wind turbine or a rotor of the wind turbine.

[0011] When the assembly is in its final position in the wind turbine and the wind turbine is in operation, the housing element, for example, does not rotate about the rotation axis. For example, with respect to the rotation about the rotation axis, the housing element is fixed relative to the tower of the wind turbine, while the rotating element rotates about the rotation axis during normal operation of the wind turbine.

[0012] The housing element and / or the rotating element may be formed in one piece, for example from metal. Alternatively, the housing element and the rotating element may each be formed in multiple pieces.

[0013] The bearing may be a rolling bearing or a sliding bearing. Specifically, the bearing may be a cylindrical roller bearing. For example, the outer ring of the bearing is fixed relative to the housing element, for example, axially, rotationally and / or radially fixed relative to the housing element, and / or the inner ring of the bearing is fixed relative to the rotating element, for example, axially, rotationally and / or radially fixed relative to the rotating element.

[0014] The assembly includes a first connection feature and a second connection feature. The connection feature may also be referred to as a connection device or a connection structure. The connection feature is a recess, a groove, a protrusion, a hook or a bolt. The connection feature is a feature configured to interact with a corresponding connection feature, such as to engage to establish a connection.

[0015] The first connection feature is configured to connect the housing element to the connecting element, or in other words, the first connection feature is configured to form a connection between the housing element and the connecting element. The expression "connection" herein refers in particular to a mechanical connection. "Connection" and "coupling" herein are to be understood as having the same meaning. The expression "connection" covers both direct connection or indirect connection via one or more intermediate elements. In the case of an indirect connection, the first connection feature can be configured to connect the intermediate element to the connecting element, wherein the intermediate element is directly connected to the housing element or is indirectly connected to the housing element via one or more additional intermediate elements. The intermediate element can be, for example, a bearing cap and / or a bearing outer ring.

[0016] The first connection feature may be fixed relative to the housing element, for example axially, rotationally and / or radially fixed relative to the housing element. The first connection feature may be part of the housing element, for example integrally formed with the housing element, or may be part of a separate element of the assembly, i.e. an intermediate element, such as a bearing ring. In the second case, the separate element may be fixedly connected to the housing element.

[0017] The first connection feature is configured, for example, to form a form-fit connection and / or a force-fit connection between the connection element and the housing element. A form-fit connection (sometimes also referred to as a "rigid connection" or "interlocking connection") is to be understood as a connection that is produced due to the meshing or interlocking between the two connection parts, such that a relative movement between the two connection parts is prevented (or limited) in at least one direction. The first connection feature can be configured to form a movable connection. This means that the connection allows a relative movement, such as a rotation, between the connection element and the housing element.

[0018] The second connection feature is configured to connect the rotating element to the connecting element, or in other words, to form a connection between the rotating element and the connecting element. For example, the second connection feature is fixed relative to the rotating element, for example, axially, rotationally and / or radially fixed relative to the rotating element. The second connection feature can be part of the rotating element, for example, formed integrally with the rotating element, or can be a separate element of the assembly, i.e., part of an intermediate element, such as a bearing ring. In the second case, the second connection feature can be fixedly connected to the rotating element.

[0019] The second connection feature is configured, for example, to form a form-fit connection and / or a force-fit connection between the connection element and the rotation element. The second connection feature can be configured to form a movable connection. This means that the connection allows relative movement, such as rotation, between the connection element and the rotation element.

[0020] Two elements or features are rotationally, axially or radially fixed to each other meaning that the two elements or features cannot move relative to each other in a rotational direction, axial direction or radial direction, respectively. An element or feature fixedly connected to another element or feature is axially, rotationally and radially fixed to the other element or feature.

[0021] It is understood by those skilled in the art that in order to form a connection with the connecting element by means of the first connecting feature and the second connecting feature, the connecting element may include a corresponding first connecting feature and a corresponding second connecting feature. The first connecting feature and the corresponding first connecting feature of the connecting element may be configured to interact with each other, such as to engage with each other, so as to connect the connecting element to the housing element. Similarly, the second connecting feature and the corresponding second connecting feature of the connecting element may be configured to interact with each other, such as to engage with each other, so as to connect the connecting element to the rotating element.

[0022] When the housing element and the rotating element are connected to the connecting element by means of the first connecting feature and the second connecting feature, the housing element and the rotating element are coupled to each other via the connecting element. At least one of the first connecting feature and the second connecting feature is configured to form a movable connection, for example a movable and form-fitting connection, so that a relative rotational movement between the rotating element and the housing element is still possible, while a relative axial movement between the rotating element and the housing element is prevented. For example, in the case of coupling via the connecting element, an axial locking engagement is formed between the rotating element and the housing element for blocking a relative axial movement between the rotating element and the housing element.

[0023] In the case of preventing or blocking the relative axial movement between the rotating element and the housing element, it should be understood that the relative axial movement is limited to a small allowable amount (e.g., 0.5 mm or less) corresponding to the gap between the connecting element and the first connecting feature and / or the second connecting feature that form the corresponding connection. Such a gap is usually necessary to establish and / or release the corresponding connection.

[0024] The rotating element may be axially movable relative to the shell element, for example by a predetermined distance, without being coupled via the connecting element, for example during normal operation of the wind turbine. In particular, the bearing may include a certain axial clearance, i.e. the rotating element may be slightly axially movable relative to the shell element within the limits of the axial clearance. The axial clearance may be at least 1 mm or at least 2 mm and / or at most 15 mm or at most 10 mm or at most 5 mm in both axial directions. By coupling the rotating element to the shell element via the connecting element, for example during transportation of the assembly and / or during assembly of the wind turbine, the rotating element may be maintained relative to the shell element in a certain desired axial position, for example in the center of the axial clearance in the bearing. Thus, after disconnecting the rotating element from the shell element, for example during normal operation of the wind turbine, the rotating element may be moved from a desired axial position within the axial clearance without contacting the bearing seat. Thus, high axial loads on the bearing are avoided. The mentioned clearance is advantageous because it prevents high axial loads from occurring during normal operation of the wind turbine.

[0025] According to at least one embodiment, at least one of the first connection feature and the second connection feature, for example a connection feature configured for movable connection, is a groove extending or oriented in the rotational direction. The groove can be configured to engage with a portion of the connecting element. For example, when the connecting element and the groove engage, a rotational movement of the connecting element relative to the groove and along the groove is achieved. Axial movement of the connecting element relative to the groove is, for example, prevented.

[0026] The groove extends along the direction of rotation, i.e. circumferentially. For example, the groove extends for at least 60° or at least 120° or at least 180° or at least 240°. Alternatively, the groove may extend completely around the axis of rotation. This means that the groove extends for 360°. In this way, a complete rotation of the rotating element relative to the housing element is possible when coupled via the connecting element.

[0027] The groove may be formed in or at the outer surface of the rotating element, for example in the second part of the rotating element. The outer surface may face in a radially outward direction. Alternatively, the groove may be part of an intermediate element connected to the rotating element. Alternatively, the groove may be formed at or in the outer surface of the housing element, or may be part of an intermediate element connected to the housing element.

[0028] The portion of the connecting element for engaging with the groove may be an edge portion of the connecting element. When engaged, the portion of the connecting element protrudes into the groove. In order to prevent axial movement of the connecting element relative to the groove, the width of the groove measured in the axial direction may be selected so that the portion of the connecting element protruding into the groove can only move slightly in the axial direction before hitting the axially facing wall of the groove when trying to move it in the axial direction. For example, the width of the groove is adapted to the width of the portion of the connecting element, for example it may be substantially the same as the width of the portion of the connecting element, for example so that the axial clearance between the groove and the portion of the connecting element is limited to a small allowable amount (for example, at most 0.5 mm).

[0029] By means of the groove, a form-fitting, movable connection between the connecting element and the housing element or the rotating element, respectively, can be achieved. In this way, a rotational movement between the rotating element and the housing element can be achieved even when the rotating element and the housing element are coupled to each other via the connecting element. However, there are other possibilities for achieving the rotational movement. For example, at least one of the first connecting feature and the second connecting feature can be an annular protrusion, which is configured to engage with a corresponding connecting feature of the connecting element. The corresponding connecting feature can be a clamping structure for surrounding the protrusion.

[0030] According to at least one embodiment, the groove is oriented in a radial direction. The portion of the connecting element configured to engage with the groove thus engages radially with the groove. In particular, the groove depth measured in the radial direction is greater than the groove width measured in the axial direction. For example, the depth is at least 1.5 times or at least twice the width.

[0031] According to at least one embodiment, one of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is configured to form a removable connection, and the other of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is configured to form a fixed connection, so that the relative movement between the connecting element and one of the rotating element and the housing element is prevented. Therefore, the other of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is configured to form a fixed connection between the connecting element and the housing element or the rotating element, respectively. The fixed connection should be understood as a connection in which the relative movement between the connecting partners in any direction is prevented. In the present invention, the fixed connection is preferably a releasable connection. However, the fixed connection can alternatively be a permanent connection. The removable connection can also be a releasable connection or a permanent connection.

[0032] According to at least one embodiment, at least one of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is a hole, such as a bushing or a screw hole. The hole is, for example, configured to engage with a bolt or a screw to connect the connection element to the housing element or the rotating element, respectively. The hole may include a thread for forming a threaded engagement with the screw.

[0033] By means of the hole, a fixed connection between the connecting element and the housing element or the rotary element, respectively, can be produced.

[0034] For example, the first connection feature is a hole and the second connection feature is a groove, or vice versa, the first connection feature is a groove and the second connection feature is a hole.

[0035] According to at least one embodiment, the first connection feature is part of an intermediate element, which in turn is directly or indirectly connected to the housing element. In the case of an indirect connection, the intermediate element is connected to the housing element via one or more additional intermediate elements. The intermediate element can be, for example, a bearing cap and / or a bearing outer ring.

[0036] According to at least one embodiment, at least one of the first connection feature and the second connection feature is configured to form a releasable connection. Thus, once established, the connection by means of the first connection feature and / or the second connection feature can be released without destruction. In particular, the connection established by means of the first connection feature and / or the second connection feature can be a reversible connection, which can be formed and released several times. For example, both the first connection feature and the second connection feature are configured to form a releasable connection.

[0037] For example, when the at least one releasable connection is released, a relative axial movement between the rotation element and the housing element is enabled or at least is no longer blocked by the connecting element.

[0038] According to at least one embodiment, the first connection feature and the second connection feature are accessible from the outside of the housing element, so that the connection element can be connected to the housing element and the rotating element from the outside of the housing element by means of the connection features. For this purpose, both the first connection feature and the second connection feature can be exposed, for example not covered by the housing element and / or the rotating element. For example, the first connection feature is arranged at the outer surface of the housing element, and the second connection feature is arranged at the outer surface of the rotating element, wherein the second connection feature is located in a second part of the rotating element that is not covered by the housing element.

[0039] Since the connection element can be attached from the outside of the housing element, the risk of parts of the connection element falling into the interior of the gearbox and changing the operation of the gearbox is reduced. In addition, since the connection can be attached from the outside of the housing element, the connection element can be attached to and detached from the gearbox in a simple and safe manner.

[0040] According to at least one embodiment, the first connection feature is arranged on the exterior of the housing element, for example at an outer surface of the housing element.

[0041] According to at least one embodiment, the second connection feature is arranged inside the housing element. The housing element may include a slot through which the connection element can be inserted to reach the second connection feature. For example, the slot may extend through the housing element in a radial direction so that the connection element can be inserted in a radial direction to reach the second connection feature.

[0042] In this embodiment, the connecting element can be attached from the outside of the housing element. Thus, the connecting element can be attached to and detached from the component in a simple and safe manner. This embodiment is particularly advantageous for situations where little space is available at the second part of the rotating element, i.e. at the part of the rotating element not covered by the housing element.

[0043] According to at least one embodiment, the rotating element is a shaft, such as one of a gearbox input shaft and a gearbox output shaft. The gearbox input shaft corresponds to a shaft typically connected directly or indirectly to a wind turbine rotor, while the gearbox output shaft is typically connected directly or indirectly to a generator of the wind turbine.

[0044] According to at least one embodiment, the housing element is a gearbox housing. Thus, the housing element may be a housing of a gearbox of which the component is a part. Alternatively, the housing element may be a part of a gearbox housing.

[0045] According to at least one embodiment, the assembly is used in a planetary gearbox.

[0046] According to at least one embodiment, the rotating element is a planet carrier. The planet carrier is, for example, configured to carry planetary gears arranged around a sun gear. For example, the planet carrier is a first-stage planet carrier. Thus, the planet carrier is directly coupled to the rotor of the wind turbine without intermediate elements for changing the rotational speed. The planet carrier may alternatively be indirectly coupled to the rotor of the wind turbine.

[0047] According to at least one embodiment, the first connection feature is part of or is formed in a bearing cap, for example a bearing cap of a bearing between the rotating element and the housing element, the bearing enabling a rotational movement between the two elements.

[0048] The assembly may include several first connection features and / or second connection features. All details disclosed for one first connection feature and / or one second connection feature are also disclosed for all other first connection features or second connection features, respectively.

[0049] Next, the device will be described in detail.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the device comprises an assembly according to any of the embodiments described herein. In addition, the device further comprises a connecting element. The connecting element may be a connecting element as described above. The connecting element is connected to the housing element and the rotating element by means of a first connecting feature and a second connecting feature. The connection is such that the relative axial movement between the rotating element and the housing element is prevented, but the relative rotation between the rotating element and the housing element is achieved.

[0051] For example, the first connection feature interacts with, for example, engages with, a corresponding first connection feature of the connection element to establish a connection between the housing element and the connection element. The second connection feature can interact with, for example, engage with, a corresponding second connection feature of the connection element to establish a connection between the rotation element and the connection element.

[0052] For example, one of the first corresponding connection feature and the second corresponding connection feature of the connecting element can be a part or a protrusion of the connecting element, which is configured to engage with and protrude into the first connection feature or the second connection feature in the form of a groove. The other corresponding connection feature of the connecting element can be a hole or a bolt. In the case where the other corresponding connection feature is a hole, the screw can be guided through the hole in the connecting element and screwed into the first connection feature or the second connection feature implemented as another hole, so as to connect the connecting element to the housing element or the rotating element, respectively. In the case where the other corresponding connection feature is a bolt, the bolt can protrude into the first connection feature or the second connection feature as a hole, so as to connect the connecting element to the housing element or the rotating element, respectively.

[0053] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting element is a plate. The plate can have a ring shape or a ring segment shape. For example, the ring segment forms at most 50% of the complete ring, i.e. it extends at most 180°. For example, the ring segment forms at least 10% or at least 30% of the complete ring. In particular, the connecting element can be a plate-shaped, ring segment-shaped element.

[0054] The plate may be made of metal. The plate may alternatively be made of other materials.

[0055] The plate may include at least one hole as a corresponding connection feature. The hole may extend completely through the plate and extend over the entire thickness of the plate. An edge portion of the plate may be inserted into the rotationally extending groove.

[0056] When connected to the housing element and the rotating element, the axial extension of the connecting element may be smaller than the radial extension and / or the circumferential extension of the connecting element. The circumferential extension may be larger than the radial extension.

[0057] The connection element may comprise several first corresponding connection features and / or second corresponding connection features, and all disclosed details relating to one first corresponding connection feature and / or second corresponding connection feature are disclosed for all other first corresponding connection features or second corresponding connection features, respectively.

[0058] Next, the kit is described in detail.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the kit comprises an assembly according to any of the embodiments described herein. In addition, the kit comprises a connecting element, such as the connecting element described above. The connecting element is configured to be connected to the housing element and the rotating element by means of a first connecting feature and a second connecting feature.

[0060] The difference between a device and a kit is in particular that in the device the connecting element is connected to the component by means of a first connecting feature and a second connecting feature, whereas in the kit the connecting element can be separated from the component, i.e. not connected to the component. However, the device can be formed by connecting the connecting element to the component. Therefore, all features disclosed in relation to the device are also disclosed for the kit, and vice versa, all features disclosed in relation to the kit are also disclosed for the device.

[0061] Next, the gearbox is described in detail.

[0062] In at least one embodiment, the gearbox comprises an assembly according to any of the embodiments described herein. The gearbox may be a single-stage gearbox or a multi-stage gearbox. The gearbox may be a planetary gearbox such as described above. Such a planetary gearbox may include other components such as planetary gears and a sun gear engaged with the planetary gears. The planetary gears may be arranged on a planet carrier. Alternatively, the gearbox may also be of another type such as a spur gearbox. Alternatively, in the case of a multi-stage gearbox, the gearbox may include one or several planetary stages and one spur gear stage.

[0063] Next, a method for transporting an assembly of a gearbox is described in detail. The assembly may be an assembly as described herein. Therefore, all features described in relation to the assembly are also disclosed for the method, and vice versa, all features described in relation to the method are also disclosed for the assembly.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the method comprises the step of arranging an assembly according to any of the embodiments described herein. If the rotating element of the assembly is not yet in the desired axial position relative to the housing element, the step of arranging the assembly may be followed by the step of positioning the rotating element in the desired axial position relative to the housing element. Thereafter, in a further step, the housing element of the assembly is connected to the connecting element by means of the first connecting feature, and the rotating element is connected to the connecting element by means of the second connecting feature. Subsequently, the assembly connected to the connecting element is transported.

[0065] Of course, the above includes the case where the entire gearbox with the components is provided and then the gearbox connected with the connecting member is transported.

[0066] The desired axial position of the rotating element corresponds to the axial position which the rotating element maintains during transportation of the assembly. The desired axial position may, for example, correspond to a center position of an axial gap in a bearing which rotatably supports the rotating element relative to the housing element. In particular, the desired axial position is selected in such a way that the rotating element can be axially moved in the axial gap of the bearing without contacting the bearing seat, after at least one connection between the connecting element and the housing element and between the connecting element and the rotating element is released, e.g. during normal operation of the wind turbine.

[0067] The connecting element for performing the method may be the connecting element described above. Thus, when connected, the above-described device may be formed, so that all features disclosed for the device are also disclosed for the method, and vice versa, all features disclosed for the method are also disclosed for the device. The component for performing the method may already be assembled to a gearbox, i.e. may already be part of a gearbox.

[0068] Transporting the assembly with the connected connection elements may include one or more of: transporting by vehicle such as a train, ship and / or truck, lifting and / or lowering using a crane.

[0069] During transport, the bearing between the housing element and the rotating element is axially unloaded due to the connection with the connecting element.

[0070] Next, a method of assembling a wind turbine will be described in detail.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the method comprises a step of setting up a device according to any of the embodiments described herein. In another step, the device is placed in a desired position within the wind turbine. If the gearbox has not been fully assembled before performing the method, this step may include assembling the assembly with other components to form the gearbox. In particular, the desired position may be a position in which the assembly is mounted in a nacelle on top of a wind turbine tower. In addition, in the desired position, the assembly, in particular the rotating element, can be connected to a generator or a rotor of the wind turbine. In another step, at least one of the connections between the connecting element and the housing element and the connection between the connecting element and the rotating element formed by means of the first connecting feature and the second connecting feature is released. Preferably, this step is performed after the device is placed in the desired position within the wind turbine.

[0072] For example, both connections formed by means of the first connection feature and the second connection feature are released. The connection element can then be disassembled or removed from the wind turbine. For example, the connection element can then be used to transport another component and / or for assembling another wind turbine.

[0073] In the following, components, devices, gearboxes, wind turbines and methods of the gearbox of a wind turbine will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings based on exemplary embodiments. The attached drawings are included to provide further understanding. In the drawings, identical, similar or similarly acting elements may be represented by the same reference numerals. It should be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings are only illustrative representations and are not necessarily drawn to scale. As long as elements or components correspond to each other in terms of their functions in different drawings, their description will not be repeated for each of the following drawings. For the sake of clarity, elements may not appear with corresponding reference numerals in all figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a wind turbine,

[0075] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a device comprising an exemplary embodiment of an assembly or a gearbox is shown in cross-section,

[0076] Figure 3 The stereogram shows Figure 2 The device,

[0077] Figure 4 A second exemplary embodiment of a device comprising a second exemplary embodiment of an assembly or a gearbox is shown in cross-section, respectively,

[0078] Figure 5 a flow chart showing an exemplary embodiment of a method of transporting components of a gearbox, and

[0079] Figure 6 A flow chart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method of assembling a wind turbine is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a wind turbine 100 is shown, which comprises a tower 102. The tower 102 is fixed to the ground by means of a foundation 104. At one end of the tower 102 opposite to the ground, a nacelle 106 is rotatably mounted. The nacelle 106 comprises, for example, a generator coupled to a rotor 108 via a gearbox (not shown). The rotor 108 comprises one or more (wind turbine) rotor blades 110, which are arranged on a rotor hub 112, which is connected to a rotor shaft (not shown).

[0081] During operation, the rotor 108 is set to rotate by air flow, such as wind. This rotational motion is transmitted to the generator via the rotor shaft and the gearbox. The generator converts the mechanical energy of the rotor 108 into electrical energy.

[0082] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the device 14 is shown in cross-section. The device 14 comprises a gearbox 11, for example Figure 1 The invention relates to a gearbox for a wind turbine of the invention. The gearbox 11 comprises an assembly 10 which is a subunit of the gearbox 11. The assembly 10 has a rotating element 2 in the form of a gearbox input shaft 2. The gearbox input shaft 2 constitutes a planet carrier 2. Furthermore, the assembly comprises a housing element 1 in the form of a gearbox housing 1. The gearbox 11 is, for example, a planetary gearbox and can comprise planetary gears and a sun gear, not shown. The planet carrier 2 is connected or can be connected to a rotor shaft, for example via a shrink disk (not shown).

[0083] The planet carrier 2 is arranged in a rotatable manner relative to the gearbox housing 1 by means of a bearing 3. The bearing 3 comprises a bearing outer ring 31 and a bearing inner ring 32, the bearing outer ring 31 being connected, for example fixedly connected, to the gearbox housing 1, and the bearing inner ring 32 being connected, for example fixedly connected, to the planet carrier 2. Rolling elements 33, for example in the form of cylindrical rolling elements, are arranged between the bearing inner ring 32 and the bearing outer ring 31. Furthermore, a bearing cover 34 is fixedly connected to the gearbox housing 1 via the bearing outer ring 31. The bearing 3 has a certain axial clearance, which allows an axial movement of the planet carrier 2 relative to the gearbox housing 1, for example an axial movement of 2.5 mm in both axial directions, during normal operation of the gearbox 11. However, as will be described further below, this axial movement is prevented due to the connection with the connecting element 4.

[0084] Figure 2Also shown is an axis of rotation A, about which the planet carrier 2 can rotate relative to the gearbox housing 1. The direction parallel to the axis of rotation A is referred to herein as the axial direction or longitudinal direction. The radial direction R is perpendicular to the axis of rotation A and intersects the axis of rotation A. The direction of rotation C, also called the circumferential direction or azimuthal direction, points into the plane of the paper or out of the plane of the paper.

[0085] If you can Figure 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , a first portion 21 of the planet carrier 2 is radially surrounded by the gearbox housing 1, so that, viewed in radially inward direction, the gearbox housing 1 covers this first portion 21 of the planet carrier 2. A second portion 22 of the planet carrier 2 extends axially beyond the gearbox housing 1. For example, this second portion 22 is foreseen to be connected to a rotor shaft of a wind turbine.

[0086] exist Figure 2 In the device 14, the connecting element 4 in the form of a metal plate 4 is connected to the component 10 or the gearbox 11, respectively. For this purpose, the connecting element 4 is connected to the gearbox housing 1 by means of a first connecting feature 41. The first connecting feature 41 is a screw hole in the bearing cover 34. The connecting element 4 comprises a corresponding first connecting feature in the form of a hole, which is rotationally and radially aligned with the screw hole 41. The screw 43 is guided through the hole in the connecting element 4 and screwed into the screw hole 41 of the bearing cover 34. In this way, the connecting element 4 is fixedly connected to the gearbox housing 1. As in Figure 2 As can be further seen in FIG. 4 , the screw 43 also passes through an element 44 located between the bearing cap 34 and the connecting element 4. The element 44 is a separate element with specific dimensions so that the exact axial position of the connecting element 4 relative to the gearbox housing 1 can be set as required. The element 44 can be a washer. In an alternative embodiment, the element 44 can be an integral part of the bearing cap 34 (not shown). A washer is used between the bearing cap 34 and the connecting element 4, through which the screw 43 is guided.

[0087] Furthermore, the connecting element 4 is connected to the planet carrier 2 by means of a second connecting feature 42. The second connecting feature 42 is a groove incorporated in the outer surface of the planet carrier 2. In an alternative embodiment, the groove may be incorporated in a separate (intermediate) element connected to the planet carrier 2, for example via a screw connection (not shown). The corresponding second connecting feature of the connecting element 4 is a part of the connecting element 4 that protrudes into the groove 42.

[0088] The groove 42 extends in the direction of rotation. Figure 3 Here, the groove 42 extends completely around the axis of rotation A. Figure 3It can also be seen in FIG. 3 that the connecting element 4 is actually realized as a plate-like element in the shape of a ring segment. The connecting element 4 is connected to the gearbox housing 1 by means of a plurality of screws 43 extending into associated screw holes 41 in the bearing cover 34 .

[0089] The connection between the connecting element 4 and the gearbox housing 1 by means of screws 43 screwed into holes 41 fixes the connecting element 4 axially, rotationally and radially relative to the gearbox housing 1 , ie, the connection is a fixed connection.

[0090] The connection between the connecting element 4 and the planet carrier 2 is connected by means of a shape fit between the connecting element 4 and the groove 42, so that the relative axial movement between the connecting element 4 and the planet carrier 2 is prevented, that is, the relative axial movement is limited to a smaller allowable amount defined by the axial clearance between the groove 42 and the connecting element 4. Therefore, the relative axial movement between the planet carrier 2 and the gearbox housing 1 is prevented. However, since the groove 42 extends completely around the rotation axis A in the rotation direction, the connection between the connecting element 4 and the planet carrier 2 is movable, that is, rotatable, so that the connecting element 4 engaged with the groove 42 can move along the groove 42. Therefore, the relative rotation between the planet carrier 2 and the gearbox housing 1 can be achieved.

[0091] The connection between the gearbox housing 1 and the planet carrier 2 via the connecting element 4 is particularly advantageous during transportation and assembly of the assembly 10 / gearbox 11, because the connection prevents axial displacement of the planet carrier 2 relative to the gearbox housing 1 and at the same time allows the planet carrier 2 to rotate relative to the gearbox housing 1 when required.

[0092] Figure 4 Shown with Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second exemplary embodiment corresponds to an alternative to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 has many similarities, but is different from the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The exemplary embodiment shown in is different in that the gearbox housing 1 comprises a slot 51 through which the connecting element 4 can be inserted, in particular in the radial direction, to reach the groove 42 of the planet carrier 2 and engage in the groove 42 of the planet carrier 2. The groove 42 is incorporated in the first part 21 of the planet carrier 2 arranged inside the gearbox housing 1. The gearbox housing 1 comprises a screw hole 41 through which a screw 43 is inserted in order to fixedly connect the gearbox housing 1 to the connecting element 4. Alternatively, other types of connections, such as a locking pin connection, can be used to fixedly connect the gearbox housing 1 to the connecting element 4 (not shown).

[0093] Figure 5 Based on the flowchart, exemplary embodiments of the method for transporting a gearbox or a component of a gearbox are shown. In step S1_1, a gearbox having Figure 2 and Figure 3 The component 10 or having Figure 4 The gearbox 11 of the assembly 10. If the planet carrier 2 of the assembly is not yet in the desired axial position relative to the gearbox housing 1, the next step may include positioning the planet carrier 2 in the desired axial position. The connecting element 4 is not yet connected to the gearbox housing 1 and the planet carrier 2. After completing step Sl_1 and possibly after axially positioning the planet carrier 2, step Sl_2 is performed, in which the gearbox housing 1 is connected to the connecting element 4 by means of the first connecting feature 41. In step Sl_3, the planet carrier 2 is connected to the connecting element 4 by means of the second connecting feature 42. Steps Sl_2 and Sl_3 can be performed simultaneously or successively. The result is Figure 2 and Figure 3 Device 14 or Figure 4 In the subsequent step S1_4, the device 14 is transported, for example, by train or ship or truck. For example, the device 14 is transported from the manufacturing site of the gearbox 11 to the site to be installed in the wind turbine. Due to the connection with the connecting element 4, the axial movement of the planet carrier 2 relative to the gearbox housing 1 is blocked.

[0094] Figure 6 A method for assembling a wind turbine, for example Figure 1 In step S2_1, set Figure 2 and Figure 3 The device 14 is then placed at the desired location, for example, on the tip of the tower 102 (step S2_2). Then, in step S2_3, the connection between the connecting element 4 and the gearbox housing 1 by means of the first connecting feature 41 and the connection between the connecting element 4 and the planetary carrier 2 by means of the second connecting feature 42 are released. Since the connecting element 4 and the connecting features 41, 42 are accessible from the outside of the gearbox housing 1, the connecting element 4 can now be easily removed and can be used, for example, for another component of the gearbox. In addition, if the connecting element 4 will break during transportation, the remaining part of the connecting element 4 will not fall into the interior of the gearbox 11, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the elements of the gearbox 11.

[0095] exist Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiment for assembling a wind turbine illustrated in FIG. 1 , step S2_1 may alternatively include setting Figure 4In this case, the first connection feature 41 and the second connection feature 42 can be released in a simple and safe manner and the connection element 4 can be easily removed, even if little space is available at the second part 22 of the planet carrier 2.

[0096] The invention described herein is not limited to the description in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments. On the contrary, the invention includes any novel feature and any combination of features, in particular any combination of features in the patent claims, even if the feature or the combination itself is not explicitly described in the patent claims or the exemplary embodiments.

[0097] Reference numerals

[0098] 1 Housing element

[0099] 2 Rotating elements

[0100] 3 Bearings

[0101] 4 Connecting elements

[0102] 10 Components

[0103] 11 Gear Box

[0104] 14 Installation

[0105] 21 Part 1

[0106] 22 Part 2

[0107] 31 Bearing outer ring

[0108] 32 Bearing inner ring

[0109] 33 Rolling parts

[0110] 34 Bearing cap

[0111] 41 First connection feature

[0112] 42 Second connection feature

[0113] 44 Components

[0114] 51 slots

[0115] 100 wind turbines

[0116] 102 Tower

[0117] 104 Base

[0118] 106 Cabin

[0119] 108 Rotor

[0120] 110 blades

[0121] 112 Rotor Hub

[0122] A Rotation axis

[0123] R Radial direction

[0124] C Rotation direction

[0125] S1_1 to S1_4 Method steps

[0126] S2_1 to S1_3 Method steps

Claims

1. An assembly (10) of a gearbox (11) of a wind turbine (100), comprising: - a housing element (1), - a rotating element (2), - bearings (3), - a first connection feature (41) for connecting the housing element (1) to a connection element (4), and - a second connection feature (42) for connecting the rotation element (2) to the connection element (4), wherein - the rotating element (2) is arranged rotatably relative to the housing element (1) by means of the bearing (3), - At least one of the first connecting feature (41) and the second connecting feature (42) is configured to form a movable shape-fitting connection, so that when the housing element (1) and the rotating element (2) are connected to the connecting element (4) by means of the first connecting feature (41) and the second connecting feature (42), the relative axial movement between the rotating element (2) and the housing element (1) is prevented, but the relative rotation between the rotating element (2) and the housing element (1) is achieved.

2. The assembly (10) according to claim 1, wherein - At least one of the first connection feature (41) and the second connection feature (42) is a groove extending in the rotational direction and is configured to engage with a portion of the connection element (4) so ​​that rotational movement of the connection element (4) relative to and along the groove is achieved and axial movement of the connection element (4) relative to the groove is prevented.

3. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - One of the first connection feature (41) and the second connection feature (42) is configured to form a fixed connection so that relative movement between the connection element (4) and one of the rotation element (2) and the housing element (1) is prevented.

4. The assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - At least one of the first connection feature (41) and the second connection feature (42) is configured to form a releasable connection, so that when the connection is released, a relative axial movement between the rotation element (2) and the housing element (1) is achieved.

5. Assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - the first connection feature (41) and the second connection feature (42) are accessible from the outside of the housing element (1), so that the connection element (4) can be connected to the housing element (1) and the rotating element (2) from the outside of the housing element (1) by means of the connection features (41, 42).

6. The assembly (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein - the first connection feature (41) is arranged outside the housing element (1), - the second connection feature (42) is arranged inside the housing element (1), - the housing element (1) comprises a slot (51) through which the connecting element (4) can be inserted to reach the second connecting feature (42).

7. Assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - the rotating element (2) is a shaft, in particular a gearbox input shaft or a gearbox output shaft, The housing element (1) is a gearbox housing or a part of a gearbox housing.

8. Assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - the assembly (10) is used in a planetary gearbox, The rotating element (2) is a planet carrier, in particular a first-stage planet carrier.

9. A device (14), comprising: - Assembly (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, - a connecting element (4), wherein The connecting element (4) is connected to the housing element (1) and the rotating element (2) by means of the first connecting feature (41) and the second connecting feature (42), so that - Relative axial movement between the rotating element (2) and the housing element (1) is prevented, but relative rotation between the rotating element (2) and the housing element (1) is enabled.

10. The device (14) according to claim 9, wherein - The connecting element (4) is a plate having a ring shape or a ring segment shape.

11. A kit comprising - Assembly (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, A connecting element (4) for connecting to the housing element (1) and to the rotating element (2) by means of the first connecting feature (41) and the second connecting feature (42).

12. A gearbox (11) of a wind turbine (100), the gearbox (11) comprising - an assembly (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

13. A method for transporting an assembly (10) of a gearbox (11), comprising: - providing an assembly (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, - connecting the housing element (1) to the connecting element (4) by means of the first connecting feature (41), - connecting the rotation element (2) to the connection element (4) by means of the second connection feature (42), - transporting the assembly (10) together with the connected connecting elements (4).

14. A method of assembling a wind turbine (100), comprising: - providing a device (14) according to claim 9 or 10, - placing the device (14) in a desired position within the wind turbine (100), - releasing at least one of the connections between the connecting element (4) and the housing element (1) and between the connecting element (4) and the rotating element (2) formed by means of the first connecting feature (41) and the second connecting feature (42).

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