Operation and maintenance method and replacement system

Abstract

The invention relates to an operation and maintenance method and a replacement system.The operation and maintenance method comprises the steps that a replacement tool is provided, the replacement tool comprises a lifting assembly and a guide cable, and the lifting assembly comprises a first driving part and a connecting cable; the first driving part is installed in the cabin, one end of the connecting cable is connected with the transformer, one free end of the guiding cable is connected to the floating foundation, and the other free end of the guiding cable penetrates through the transformer and is connected to the cabin; separating the transformer from the cabin; the first driving part is controlled to release the connecting cable, so that the transformer moves along the guide cable and keeps a safe distance from the tower until the transformer is lowered to the floating foundation; the guiding cable is arranged on the maintained or replaced transformer in a penetrating mode, and the connecting cable is connected with the maintained or replaced transformer; and the first driving part is controlled to recover the connecting cable, so that the maintained or replaced transformer ascends to the cabin along the guide cable and is connected with the cabin. Maintenance and replacement of the transformer hung below the wind generating set are facilitated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of wind power, and in particular to an operation and maintenance method and a replacement system. Background Art

[0002] The operation and maintenance of floating wind turbines is currently a worldwide problem. Due to the cost reduction requirements of the wind turbines, during the construction and operation and maintenance periods, the replacement of components such as transformers without large self-elevating installation vessels is considered.

[0003] From the perspective of cost savings, the transformers of floating wind turbines usually adopt a lower-hanging design, which can greatly reduce the design cost of the nacelle of the wind turbine, reduce the occupied space inside the nacelle, and also reduce the length of the entire nacelle. Especially for the current trend of continuous reduction in the unit price of wind turbines, the medium-speed permanent magnet wind turbines in the entire industry are basically designed with the transformers hanging below.

[0004] The lower-hanging design of the transformer brings great challenges to the subsequent replacement of the transformer. Therefore, replacing the lower-mounted transformer has become a difficult problem in the industry. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention provide an operation and maintenance method and a replacement system, which are beneficial to meeting the maintenance and replacement of transformers designed to hang below wind turbines.

[0006] On the one hand, according to an embodiment of the present invention, an operation and maintenance method for a transformer is proposed for a floating wind turbine. The floating wind turbine includes a floating foundation, a tower, a nacelle, and a transformer disposed outside the nacelle. The operation and maintenance method includes:

[0007] Providing a replacement tooling, the replacement tooling includes a lifting component and a guiding cable. The lifting component includes a first driving member and a connecting cable. The first driving member is connected to the connecting cable and winds and unwinds the connecting cable;

[0008] Installing the replacement tooling, installing the first driving member on the nacelle, connecting one end of the connecting cable away from the first driving member to the transformer, connecting one free end of the guiding cable to the floating foundation and the other free end passing through the transformer and connecting it to the nacelle;

[0009] Separating the transformer from the nacelle;

[0010] Controlling the first driving member to release the connecting cable, so that the transformer moves along the guiding cable and maintains a safe distance from the tower until it is lowered to the floating foundation;

[0011] Passing the guiding cable through the transformer to be maintained or replaced, and connecting the connecting cable to the transformer to be maintained or replaced;

[0012] Controlling the first driving member to recover the connecting cable, so that the transformer to be maintained or replaced rises along the guiding cable to the nacelle and is connected to the nacelle.

[0013] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, the replacement tooling further includes a support assembly. The support assembly includes a connection end and a support end, and the distance between the connection end and the support end is adjustable. The steps of installing the replacement tooling further include connecting the connection end to the transformer and arranging the support end towards one side of the tower; the operation and maintenance method further includes:

[0014] Obtaining a first motion acceleration value of the floating foundation when the transformer is lowered along the guiding cable towards the floating foundation or raised towards the nacelle;

[0015] When the first motion acceleration value is greater than a first threshold, controlling the distance between the connection end and the support end of the support assembly to be at a first distance dimension, the support end pushing against the tower with a predetermined pressure, and the first driving member stopping releasing or retracting the connecting cable, and the support assembly stops moving with the transformer and is in a relatively static state with respect to the guiding cable.

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, when the first motion acceleration value is less than or equal to a second threshold, controlling the distance between the connection end and the support end of the support assembly to be at a second distance dimension, the support end being separated from the tower, the first threshold being greater than the second threshold, and the first distance dimension being greater than the second distance dimension.

[0017] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, when the first motion acceleration value is greater than the second threshold and less than or equal to the first threshold, controlling the distance between the connection end and the support end of the support assembly to be at a third distance dimension, the support end abutting against the tower and moving along the guiding cable towards one of the floating foundation and the nacelle with the transformer, the third distance dimension being greater than the second distance dimension and less than the first distance dimension.

[0018] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, the value range of the first threshold is 0.5 - 0.7 times the gravitational acceleration, and the value range of the second threshold is 0.2 - 0.3 times the gravitational acceleration.

[0019] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, before the steps of installing the replacement tooling, the operation and maintenance method further includes:

[0020] Obtaining a second motion acceleration value of the floating foundation;

[0021] When the second motion acceleration value is less than or equal to a third threshold, shutting down the floating wind turbine and adjusting it to the operation and maintenance condition.

[0022] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, the value range of the third threshold is 0.5 - 0.7 times the gravitational acceleration.

[0023] According to one aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, the safety distance is greater than or equal to 0.5 m.

[0024] On the other hand, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a replacement system is provided for a floating wind turbine, the floating wind turbine comprising a floating foundation, a tower, a nacelle and a transformer arranged outside the nacelle, the replacement system comprising: a lifting assembly, comprising a first driving member and a connecting cable, the first driving member being connected to the connecting cable and retracting and releasing the connecting cable, the first driving member being connected to the nacelle, and one end of the connecting cable facing away from the first driving member being connected to the transformer; a guide cable having two opposite free ends in its own extension direction, one of the free ends being configured to be connected to the wind turbine foundation, and the other free end being configured to pass through the transformer and be connected to the nacelle.

[0025] According to another aspect of the embodiment of the present invention, it also includes a support assembly, the support assembly has a connection end and a support end, the connection end is configured to be connected to the transformer, the support end can contact the tower, and the distance between the connection end and the support end is adjustable.

[0026] According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, the replacement system also includes: a collector, disposed on a floating foundation, configured to obtain a motion acceleration value of the floating foundation; and a controller, configured to control a distance between a connecting end and a supporting end according to the motion acceleration value to adjust the pressure exerted by the supporting end on the tower.

[0027] According to another aspect of the embodiment of the present invention, the lifting assembly also includes a sling and a pulley arranged on the sling, the end of the connecting rope away from the first driving member is connected to the transformer through the sling, and the guide rope is partially wound around the pulley.

[0028] According to another aspect of the embodiment of the present invention, it also includes a supporting tooling, on which an anchoring ring is provided, the supporting tooling is configured to be connected to the floating foundation and used to receive the transformer, and a free end of the guide rope is connected to the anchoring ring.

[0029] According to the operation and maintenance method and replacement system provided by the embodiment of the present invention, the operation and maintenance method includes providing a replacement tool, the replacement tool includes a lifting assembly and a guide rope, the lifting assembly includes a first drive member and a connecting rope connected to the first drive member, the first drive member can be installed on the nacelle, and the end of the connecting rope away from the first drive member can be connected to the transformer. At the same time, one free end of the guide rope is connected to the floating foundation and the other free end passes through the transformer and is connected to the nacelle. Then the transformer is separated from the nacelle, and the first drive member is controlled to release the connecting rope. Under the action of gravity, the transformer will move to the side where the floating foundation is located until it is lowered to the floating foundation. After the transformer is maintained or replaced, the first drive member is controlled to recycle the connecting rope so that the transformer after maintenance or replacement rises to the nacelle and is connected to the nacelle. Due to the setting of the guide rope, the transformer will move along the guide rope under the guidance of the guide rope during the descent and ascent process and maintain a safe distance with the tower, so as to avoid the collision of the transformer with the tower during the replacement process, which can not only meet the maintenance and replacement requirements of the transformer designed for the wind turbine generator set, but also ensure the safety during the maintenance and replacement process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Features, advantages, and technical effects of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between a replacement system and a wind turbine generator set according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A local enlarged view of point A in FIG.

[0033] Figure 3 is a flowchart of an operation and maintenance method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a lifting assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between a support assembly and a transformer according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a replacement system according to an embodiment of the present invention when in use;

[0037] Figure 7 is a schematic structural diagram of a transformer in a stationary state relative to a tower according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 8 is a control logic diagram of an operation and maintenance method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 9It is a schematic diagram of the cooperation among the support tooling, the collector, and the anchor ring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Wherein:

[0041] 100 - Tower; 200 - nacelle; 300 - transformer; 400 - floating foundation; 500 - impeller;

[0042] 10 - Lifting assembly; 11 - First driving member; 12 - Connecting cable; 13 - Sling; 14 - Pulley;

[0043] 20 - Guide cable;

[0044] 30 - Support assembly; 31 - Connection end; 32 - Support end;

[0045] 40 - Collector;

[0046] 50 - Support tooling;

[0047] 60 - Anchor ring.

[0048] In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. The drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Detailed implementation manners

[0049] The features and exemplary embodiments of various aspects of the present invention will be described in detail below. In the following detailed description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details. The following description of the embodiments is only intended to provide a better understanding of the present invention by showing examples of the present invention. In the drawings and the following description, at least some of the well-known structures and technologies are not shown in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention; and, for clarity, the dimensions of some structures may be exaggerated. In addition, the features, structures, or characteristics described below may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0050] The directional terms appearing in the following description are all the directions shown in the drawings, and do not limit the specific structures of the operation and maintenance method and replacement system of the present invention. In the description of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it may be directly connected or indirectly connected. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific situations.

[0051] As Figure 1As shown in the figure, the floating wind turbine includes a floating foundation 400, a tower 100, a nacelle 200, a generator, an impeller 500, and a transformer 300. The nacelle 200 is disposed above the tower 100. The generator is disposed in the nacelle 200, which can be located inside the nacelle 200. Of course, it can also be located outside the nacelle 200. The impeller 500 includes a hub and blades. The blades are connected to the hub, and the hub is connected to the rotor of the generator. When the wind acts on the blades, the blades drive the hub to rotate, thereby driving the rotor of the generator to rotate relative to the stator, realizing the conversion of wind energy into electrical energy. The transformer 300 can be disposed outside the nacelle 200 and can adopt a hanging design. The transformer 300 can be electrically connected to the generator and can be used to step up the converted electrical energy for grid connection to ensure the power demand.

[0052] The transformer 300 of the floating wind turbine usually adopts a hanging design, which can greatly reduce the design cost of the nacelle 200, reduce the occupied space inside the nacelle 200, and the length of the entire nacelle 200 can also be reduced. Especially for the current trend of continuous reduction in the unit price of the unit, the medium-speed permanent magnet units in the whole industry are basically designed according to the hanging design of the transformer 300. The hanging design of the transformer 300 brings great challenges to the subsequent replacement of the transformer 300.

[0053] Based on this, an embodiment of the present application provides an operation and maintenance method and a replacement system, which can be used for the floating wind turbines provided in the above embodiments, and is beneficial to meeting the replacement of the transformer with a hanging design of the floating wind turbine.

[0054] As Figures 1 to 4 shown, the operation and maintenance method includes:

[0055] S100. Provide a replacement tooling, the replacement tooling includes a lifting component 10 and a guiding cable 20. The lifting component 10 includes a first driving member 11 and a connecting cable 12. The first driving member 11 is connected to the connecting cable 12 and winds and unwinds the connecting cable 12.

[0056] S200. Install the replacement tooling, install the first driving member 11 on the nacelle 200, connect the end of the connecting cable 12 away from the first driving member 11 to the transformer 300, connect one free end of the guiding cable 20 to the floating foundation 400, and pass the other free end through the transformer 300 and connect it to the nacelle 200.

[0057] S300. Separate the transformer 300 from the nacelle 200.

[0058] S400. Control the first driving member 11 to release the connecting cable 12, so that the transformer 300 moves along the guiding cable 20 and maintains a safe distance from the tower 100 until it is lowered to the floating foundation 400.

[0059] S500. Thread the guiding cable 20 through the transformer 300 after maintenance or replacement, and connect the connecting cable 12 to the transformer 300 after maintenance or replacement.

[0060] S600. Control the first driving member 11 to retract the connecting cable 12, so that the transformer 300 after maintenance or replacement rises along the guiding cable 20 to the nacelle 200 and is connected to the nacelle 200.

[0061] In step S100, the first driving member 11 of the lifting assembly 10 provided includes, but is not limited to, devices such as motors and motors, and the connecting cable 12 can be retracted and released by means of winding. For example, the first driving member 111 can drive structures such as a reel to rotate to realize the release or winding and recovery of the connecting cable 12. The connecting cable 12 includes, but is not limited to, steel wire ropes, chains, etc. Optionally, the guiding cable 20 includes, but is not limited to, steel wire ropes, chains, etc.

[0062] In step S200, the first driving member 11 of the lifting assembly 10 can be arranged inside the nacelle 200 and connected to the nacelle 200, and an optional detachable connection method can be adopted. Corresponding connection interfaces can be provided on the transformer 300, and one end of the connecting cable 12 away from the first driving member 11 can be connected to the corresponding connection interface on the transformer 300, and an optional detachable connection can be adopted. The guiding cable 20 can be in a taut state, one end of the guiding cable 20 is connected to the floating foundation 400 and the other end is connected to the nacelle 200, and a channel for the guiding cable 20 to pass through is provided on the transformer 300.

[0063] An operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application includes providing a replacement tooling. The replacement tooling includes a lifting component 10 and a guiding cable 20. The lifting component 10 includes a first driving member 11 and a connecting cable 12 connected to the first driving member 11. The first driving member 11 can be installed on the nacelle 200, and one end of the connecting cable 12 away from the first driving member 11 is connected to the transformer 300. At the same time, one free end of the guiding cable 20 is connected to the floating foundation 400 and the other free end passes through the transformer 300 and is connected to the nacelle 200. Then, the transformer 300 is separated from the nacelle 200, and the first driving member 11 is controlled to release the connecting cable 12. Under the action of gravity, the transformer 300 will move towards the side where the floating foundation 400 is located until it is lowered to the floating foundation 400. After the transformer 300 is maintained or replaced, the first driving member 11 is controlled to recover the connecting cable 12, so that the maintained or replaced transformer 300 rises to the nacelle 200 and is connected to the nacelle 200. Due to the setting of the guiding cable 20, the transformer 300 will move along the guiding cable 20 during the descent and ascent processes and maintain a safe distance from the tower 100, avoiding collision between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 during the replacement process. It can not only meet the maintenance and replacement requirements of the transformer 300 with a hanging design in the wind turbine generator set, but also ensure safety during the maintenance and replacement processes.

[0064] As Figures 5 to 7 shown, in some optional embodiments, for the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, in step S100, the provided replacement tooling further includes a support component 30. The support component 30 includes a connection end 31 and a support end 32, and the distance between the connection end 31 and the support end 32 is adjustable. Step S200 further includes connecting the connection end 31 to the transformer 300 and arranging the support end 32 towards the side of the tower 100. The operation and maintenance method further includes:

[0065] Obtaining a first motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 when the transformer 300 is lowered along the guiding cable 20 towards the floating foundation 400 or rises towards the nacelle 200.

[0066] When the first motion acceleration value is greater than a first threshold, controlling the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support component 30 to be at a first distance dimension, the support end 32 pushing against the tower 100 with a predetermined pressure, and the first driving member 11 stopping releasing or recovering the connecting cable 12. The support component 30 stops moving with the transformer 300 and is in a relatively static state with the guiding cable 20.

[0067] Optionally, when the distance between the connecting end 31 and the supporting end 32 of the supporting component 30 is at the first distance dimension, the guiding cable 20 is bent into two sections at the position of the transformer 300. The supporting component 30 pushes against the transformer 300, and the guiding cable 20 bent into two sections pulls the transformer 300 in the direction opposite to the pushing direction of the supporting component 30, so that the transformer 300 is stressed at three points and can maintain balance, ensuring the integrity with the tower 100.

[0068] In the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, through the above settings, when the floating foundation 400 shakes violently under the action of natural environments such as seawater and wind load, the cooperation of the connecting cable 12, the guiding cable 20 and the supporting component 30 can be utilized to make the integrity between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 good, and the transformer 300 moves synchronously with the tower 100, always maintaining a safe distance from the tower 100, reducing the collision between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 during operation and maintenance, and improving safety.

[0069] Optionally, the supporting component 30 includes but is not limited to structural forms such as telescopic cylinders, multi-stage sleeves and rope pulleys, and can be telescopic and have adjustable length.

[0070] Optionally, the connecting end 31 and the transformer 300 can be detachably connected by fasteners such as bolts.

[0071] Optionally, the supporting end 32 and the connecting end 31 can be distributed along the radial direction of the tower 100.

[0072] Optionally, the motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 mentioned above or below can be understood as the motion acceleration value when the floating foundation 400 shakes under the action of seawater. The first motion acceleration value and the subsequent mentioned second motion acceleration value are distinguished in name to better distinguish the motion acceleration values of the floating foundation 400 collected at different time periods.

[0073] In some optional embodiments, in the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, when the first motion acceleration value is less than or equal to the second threshold, the distance between the connecting end 31 and the supporting end 32 of the supporting component 30 is controlled to be at the second distance dimension, and the supporting end 32 is separated from the tower 100. The first threshold is greater than the second threshold, and the first distance dimension is greater than the second distance dimension.

[0074] Through the above settings, when the floating foundation 400 is less affected by seawater and wind load and the shaking amplitude of the floating foundation 400 is small, the supporting component 30 can be retracted. On the basis of ensuring that the transformer 300 does not collide with the tower 100 during lowering or rising, there is no need to overcome the friction between the supporting component 30 and the tower 100, ensuring the smoothness of the lowering or rising of the transformer 300 and improving the operation and maintenance efficiency.

[0075] In some alternative embodiments, for the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, when the first motion acceleration value is greater than the second threshold and less than or equal to the first threshold, the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support component 30 are controlled to be at a third distance dimension. The support end 32 abuts against the tower 100 and moves along the guiding cable 20 towards either the floating foundation 400 or the nacelle 200 together with the transformer 300. The third distance dimension is greater than the second distance dimension and less than the first distance dimension.

[0076] The support end 32 abutting against the tower 100 can be understood as the support end 32 only contacting the tower, but it does not presume that the transformer 300 makes the relative position between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 stationary.

[0077] Through the above settings, during the ascending and descending processes of the transformer 300, the support component 30 can always support between the transformer 300 and the tower 100, avoiding collisions between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 and ensuring safety.

[0078] In some alternative embodiments, the value range of the first threshold is 0.5 - 0.7 times the gravitational acceleration, including the two end values of 0.5 times and 0.7 times, and can be optionally 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration. Optionally, the value range of the second threshold is 0.2 - 0.3 times the gravitational acceleration, including the two end values of 0.2 times and 0.3 times.

[0079] For the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, with the first threshold and the second threshold being as above, it is beneficial to control the length of the support component 30 as needed and ensure the safety of the transportation component during its movement relative to the tower 100.

[0080] In some alternative embodiments, for the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, before step S200, the operation and maintenance method further includes:

[0081] Obtaining the second motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400.

[0082] When the second motion acceleration value is less than or equal to the third threshold, the floating wind turbine is shut down and adjusted to the operation and maintenance condition.

[0083] Through the above settings, it is possible to select the appropriate timing for the operation and maintenance of the transformer 300 and ensure the safety of the operators during the replacement work and installation.

[0084] Optionally, the value range of the third threshold is 0.5 - 0.7 times the gravitational acceleration, including the two end values of 0.5 times and 0.7 times, and can be optionally 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration.

[0085] In some optional embodiments, for the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application, the safety distance is greater than or equal to 0.5 m, and may optionally be 0.5 m, 0.6 m, 0.7 m, etc.

[0086] Through the above settings, during the lowering and rising processes of the transformer 300, even if the floating foundation 400 shakes, due to the existence of the safety distance, the collision between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 can be restricted, ensuring the operation and maintenance safety of the transformer 300.

[0087] As Figure 8 shown, an example of the operation and maintenance method provided by an embodiment of the present application is for a floating wind turbine and can optionally be used for the replacement of the box-type transformer 300. For the sake of more concise expression, hereinafter, the "box-type transformer 300" will be simply referred to as "box transformer". The specific operation logic is as follows:

[0088] When it is necessary to replace the floating wind turbine, the electric control of the unit can be first adjusted to the box transformer replacement working condition, and a box transformer replacement program instruction can be transmitted to the controller of the wind power generating unit. When the obtained motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 is greater than 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration, replacement is not entered, and the window period for box transformer replacement is waited for. When the motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 is less than or equal to 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration, the unit shuts down and is adjusted to the operation and maintenance working condition.

[0089] Transport the box transformer tooling to the position of the floating foundation 400, install the replacement tooling, install the first driving member 11 on the nacelle 200, connect one end of the connecting cable 12 away from the first driving member 11 to the transformer 300, and connect one free end of the guiding cable 20 to the floating foundation 400 and the other free end passes through the transformer 300 and is connected to the nacelle 200.

[0090] When the motion acceleration of the floating foundation 400 is greater than 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration, the support assembly 30 can extend to provide the influence of acceleration for the self-storage working condition. When the obtained motion acceleration of the floating foundation 400 is less than or equal to 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration, the normal removal of the box transformer can be controlled, and the support assembly 30 retracts and does not provide support force.

[0091] During the lowering process of the box-type substation, continue to monitor the motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400. When it is greater than 0.3 times the gravitational acceleration and less than 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration, continue to lower the transformer 300 and make the support assembly 30 in a warning state, that is, the support assembly 30 extends and only contacts the tower 100 without providing a supporting force, and control the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support assembly 30 to be in the third distance dimension. When the monitored motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 is less than or equal to 0.3 times the gravitational acceleration, continue to lower the transformer 300 to make the support assembly 30 in a normal lowering state, that is, the support assembly 30 does not start, and control the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support assembly 30 to be in the second distance dimension. When the monitored motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 is greater than 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration, the support assembly 30 is in an alarm state, the support assembly 30 extends to provide a reaction force to offset the influence of the acceleration, and control the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support assembly 30 to be in the first distance dimension, forming Figure 7 the state shown, and the transformer 300 is relatively stationary with respect to the tower 100.

[0092] When the acceleration is less than 0.6 times the gravitational acceleration after the box-type substation is lowered to the floating foundation 400, the damaged box-type substation can be replaced by a ship machine, a new box-type substation can be replaced, lifted, the control program for the box-type substation lifting process can be started, installed in place, the unit can be restarted, and the acceptance can be completed.

[0093] As Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 7 and Figure 9 shown, on the other hand, a replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application is used for a floating wind turbine. The floating wind turbine includes a floating foundation 400, a tower 100, a nacelle 200, and a transformer 300 disposed outside the nacelle 200. The replacement system includes a lifting assembly 10 and a guiding cable 20. The lifting assembly 10 includes a first driving member 11 and a connecting cable 12. The first driving member 11 is connected to the connecting cable 12 and winds and unwinds the connecting cable 12. The first driving member 11 is connected to the nacelle 200. One end of the connecting cable 12 away from the first driving member 11 is connected to the transformer 300. The guiding cable 20 has two opposite free ends in its extending direction. One free end is configured to be connected to the wind turbine foundation, and the other free end is configured to pass through the transformer 300 and be connected to the nacelle 200.

[0094] The replacement system provided by the embodiment of the present invention can be used in the operation and maintenance method provided by each of the above embodiments. The replacement system includes a lifting component 10 and a guiding cable 20. The lifting component 10 includes a first driving member 11 and a connecting cable 12 connected to the first driving member 11. The first driving member 11 can be installed on the nacelle 200. One end of the connecting cable 12 away from the first driving member 11 is connected to the transformer 300. At the same time, one free end of the guiding cable 20 can be connected to the floating foundation 400 and the other free end passes through the transformer 300 and is connected to the nacelle 200. After the transformer 300 is separated from the nacelle 200, the first driving member 11 can be controlled to release the connecting cable 12. Under the action of gravity, the transformer 300 will move towards the side where the floating foundation 400 is located until it is lowered to the floating foundation 400. After the transformer 300 is maintained or replaced, the first driving member 11 is controlled to recover the connecting cable 12, so that the maintained or replaced transformer 300 is lifted to the nacelle 200 and connected to the nacelle 200. Due to the arrangement of the guiding cable 20, the transformer 300 will move along the guiding cable 20 during the descent and ascent processes and maintain a safe distance from the tower 100, avoiding collision between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 during the replacement process, which can not only meet the maintenance and replacement requirements of the transformer 300 with a hanging design in the wind turbine generator set, but also ensure the safety during the maintenance and replacement processes.

[0095] In some optional embodiments, the replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application further includes a support component 30. The support component 30 has a connection end 31 and a support end 32. The connection end 31 is configured to be connected to the transformer 300, and the support end 32 can contact the tower 100. The distance between the connection end 31 and the support end 32 is adjustable.

[0096] For the replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application, by arranging the support component 30, when the floating foundation 400 has a large shaking amplitude during the replacement of the transformer 300 and its ascent and descent along the guiding cable 20, the length of the support component 30 can be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support component 30. The support component 30 can be supported between the transformer 300 and the tower 100 to avoid the transformer 300 hitting the tower 100 and ensure the safety of the transformer 300 during the operation and maintenance process.

[0097] In some optional embodiments, the support component 30 includes, but is not limited to, a structure form of a telescopic cylinder and a multi-stage sleeve cooperating with a rope pulley. Taking the support component 30 including a telescopic cylinder as an example, the support end 32 of the support component 30 can be located at one of the cylinder body and the cylinder rod of the telescopic cylinder, and the connection end 31 of the support component 30 can be located at the other of the cylinder body and the cylinder rod of the telescopic cylinder. By controlling the extension and shortening of the telescopic cylinder, the distance between the connection end 31 and the support end 32 can be adjusted accordingly.

[0098] In some optional embodiments, the replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application further includes a collector 40 and a controller. The collector 40 is disposed on the floating foundation 400 and is configured to obtain the motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400. The controller is configured to control the distance between the connection end 31 and the support end 32 according to the motion acceleration value, so as to adjust the pressure exerted by the support end 32 on the tower 100.

[0099] The replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application can automatically adjust the distance between the support end 32 and the connection end 31 of the support assembly 30 according to the motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 by setting the collector 40 and the controller, thereby improving the safety of the replacement system during the operation and maintenance of the transformer 300.

[0100] In some optional embodiments, the collector 40 is configured to obtain the first motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400 when the transformer 300 is lowered along the guiding cable 20 towards the floating foundation 400 or raised towards the nacelle 200. The controller is configured to control the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support assembly 30 to be at a first distance dimension when the first motion acceleration value is greater than a first threshold, and the support end 32 pushes against the tower 100 with a predetermined pressure, and the first driving member 11 stops releasing or retracting the connection cable 12, and the support assembly 30 stops moving with the transformer 300 and is in a relatively stationary state with respect to the guiding cable 20.

[0101] In some optional embodiments, the controller is further configured to control the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support assembly 30 to be at a second distance dimension when the first motion acceleration value is less than or equal to a second threshold, and the support end 32 is separated from the tower 100. The first threshold is greater than the second threshold, and the first distance dimension is greater than the second distance dimension.

[0102] In some optional embodiments, the controller is further configured to control the connection end 31 and the support end 32 of the support assembly 30 to be at a third distance dimension when the first motion acceleration value is greater than the second threshold and less than or equal to the first threshold, and the support end 32 abuts against the tower 100 and moves along the guiding cable 20 towards one of the floating foundation 400 and the nacelle 200 with the transformer 300. The third distance dimension is greater than the second distance dimension and less than the first distance dimension.

[0103] Optionally, the value range of the first threshold is 0.5 - 0.7 times the acceleration due to gravity, and the value range of the second threshold is 0.2 - 0.3 times the acceleration due to gravity. Optionally, the value range of the first threshold includes the two end values of 0.5 times and 0.7 times, and can be 0.6 times the acceleration due to gravity. Optionally, the value range of the second threshold includes the two end values of 0.2 times and 0.3 times.

[0104] In some optional embodiments, in a replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application, before installing the lifting assembly 10 and the guide cable 20 for replacement work, the collector 40 is further configured to obtain a second motion acceleration value of the floating foundation 400, and the controller is further configured to shut down the floating wind turbine and adjust it to an operation and maintenance condition when the second motion acceleration value is less than or equal to a third threshold value, and the value range of the third threshold value is 0.5-0.7 times the gravity acceleration. Optionally, the value range of the third threshold value is 0.5, 0.7 times the gravity acceleration, and can be optionally 0.6 times the gravity acceleration.

[0105] In some optional embodiments, in a replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application, the lifting assembly 10 also includes a sling 13 and a pulley 14 arranged on the sling 13, the end of the connecting rope 12 away from the first driving member 11 is connected to the transformer 300 through the sling 13, and the guide rope 20 is partially wound around the pulley 14.

[0106] In a replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application, the lifting assembly 10 is provided with a hanger 13 and a pulley 14, which facilitates the connection between the lifting assembly 10 and the transformer 300. At the same time, the setting of the pulley 14 and the winding cooperation with the guide rope 20 can reduce the wear of the transformer 300 and the hanger 13 on the guide rope 20, reduce the risk of breakage of the guide rope 20, and improve the safety of the replacement system.

[0107] In some optional embodiments, a replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application further includes a support tooling 50, on which an anchoring ring 60 is provided, and the support tooling 50 is configured to be connected to the floating foundation 400 and to receive the transformer 300, and a free end of the guide rope 20 is connected to the anchoring ring 60.

[0108] The replacement system provided in one embodiment of the present application facilitates the bearing and support of the transformer 300 by providing a supporting tool 50 , and can provide a connection fulcrum for the guide cable 20 to ensure the installation requirements of the connecting cable 12 .

[0109] An operation and maintenance method and replacement system provided by an embodiment of the present application can solve the problem of replacing the current floating box-type transformer substation, overcome the safety defect of the current fixed box-type transformer substation substation replacement tower 100 without vibration protection, and solve the risk of high-altitude installation of the current box-type transformer replacement tooling. By utilizing an innovative safety control logic solution, it can ensure that the floating unit continues to work and survive in the event of shaking. In addition, the modular tooling design of the lifting assembly 10 and the guide rope 20 can achieve universalization of different units. At the same time, the redundant design of the tooling telescopic rod can provide additional support in extreme working conditions, and achieve integration with the tower through the gravity force distribution of the box-type transformer.

[0110] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components thereof can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present invention. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the technical features mentioned in each embodiment can be combined in any way. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A transformer operation and maintenance method for a floating wind turbine, wherein the floating wind turbine comprises a floating foundation, a tower, a nacelle, and a transformer arranged outside the nacelle. It is characterized in that The operation and maintenance method comprises: A replacement tool is provided, the replacement tool comprising a lifting assembly and a guide rope, the lifting assembly comprising a first driving member and a connecting rope, the first driving member is connected to the connecting rope and retracts and releases the connecting rope; Install the replacement tool, install the first drive member to the nacelle, connect the end of the connecting cable away from the first drive member to the transformer, connect one free end of the guide cable to the floating foundation and the other free end passes through the transformer and is connected to the nacelle; separating the transformer from the nacelle; Controlling the first driving member to release the connecting rope, so that the transformer moves along the guide rope and maintains a safe distance from the tower until it is lowered to the floating foundation; The guide rope is passed through the transformer that has been maintained or replaced, and the connecting rope is connected to the transformer that has been maintained or replaced; The first driving member is controlled to retract the connecting rope, so that the transformer after maintenance or replacement rises to the nacelle along the guide rope and is connected to the nacelle.

2. The operation and maintenance method according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The replacement tool further includes a support assembly, the support assembly includes a connection end and a support end, the distance between the connection end and the support end is adjustable, and the step of installing the replacement tool further includes connecting the connection end to the transformer and arranging the support end toward one side of the tower; The operation and maintenance method further includes: Acquire a first motion acceleration value of the floating foundation when the transformer is lowered toward the floating foundation or ascended toward the nacelle along the guide rope; When the first motion acceleration value is greater than a first threshold, the connection end of the support assembly and the support end are controlled to be at a first distance size, the support end pushes the tower with a predetermined pressure, the first drive member stops releasing or recovering the connection cable, and the support assembly stops moving with the transformer and is in a relatively static state with the guide cable.

3. The operation and maintenance method according to claim 2, It is characterized in that When the first motion acceleration value is less than or equal to a second threshold, the connection end of the support assembly and the support end are controlled to be at a second distance size, the support end is separated from the tower, the first threshold is greater than the second threshold, and the first distance size is greater than the second distance size.

4. The operation and maintenance method according to claim 3, It is characterized in that When the first motion acceleration value is greater than the second threshold and less than or equal to the first threshold, the connection end of the support assembly and the support end are controlled to be at a third distance size, the support end abuts against the tower and moves along the guide cable with the transformer toward one of the floating foundation and the nacelle, and the third distance size is greater than the second distance size and less than the first distance size.

5. The operation and maintenance method according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The first threshold value ranges from 0.5 to 0.7 times the acceleration of gravity, and the second threshold value ranges from 0.2 to 0.3 times the acceleration of gravity.

6. The operation and maintenance method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized in that Before the step of installing the replacement tool, the operation and maintenance method further includes: Acquiring a second motion acceleration value of the floating foundation; When the second motion acceleration value is less than or equal to a third threshold, the floating wind turbine is shut down and adjusted to an operation and maintenance condition, and the value range of the third threshold is 0.5-0.7 times of the gravity acceleration.

7. The operation and maintenance method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, It is characterized in that The safety distance is greater than or equal to 0.5m.

8. A replacement system for a floating wind turbine, the floating wind turbine comprising a floating foundation, a tower, a nacelle and a transformer arranged outside the nacelle, It is characterized in that The replacement system comprises: A lifting assembly, comprising a first driving member and a connecting cable, wherein the first driving member is connected to the connecting cable and retracts and releases the connecting cable, the first driving member is configured to be connected to the nacelle, and an end of the connecting cable away from the first driving member is configured to be connected to the transformer; The guide cable has two opposite free ends in its extending direction, one of which is configured to be connected to the wind turbine foundation, and the other free end is configured to pass through the transformer and be connected to the nacelle.

9. The replacement system according to claim 8, It is characterized in that It also includes a support assembly, which has a connection end and a support end, the connection end is configured to be connected to the transformer, the support end can be in contact with the tower, and the distance between the connection end and the support end is adjustable.

10. The replacement system according to claim 9, It is characterized in that The replacement system also includes: A collector, disposed on the floating foundation, configured to obtain a motion acceleration value of the floating foundation; The controller is configured to control the distance between the connection end and the support end according to the motion acceleration value, so as to adjust the pressure exerted by the support end on the tower.

11. The replacement system according to claim 8, It is characterized in that The lifting assembly also includes a sling and a pulley arranged on the sling, the end of the connecting rope away from the first driving member is connected to the transformer through the sling, and the guide rope is partially wound around the pulley.

12. The replacement system according to claim 8, It is characterized in that It also includes a supporting tooling, on which an anchoring ring is provided. The supporting tooling is configured to be connected to the floating foundation and used to receive the transformer, and one of the free ends of the guide rope is connected to the anchoring ring.

Images