Transport vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a transport vehicle for supporting a tip of a wind turbine blade, the transport vehicle being configured to address bending and torsional stresses that may be applied to the blade during transport by allowing the turbine blade to rotate about a first horizontal axis and a second horizontal axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a transport vehicle for supporting the tip of a wind turbine blade. Background Art

[0002] As the global demand for clean energy continues to increase, the demand for larger capacity wind turbines that can meet this demand also increases. However, high capacity (>3MW) wind turbines require very large rotor diameters to allow the wind turbine to sweep over a larger area and therefore generate greater amounts of electricity. As a result, the span length of the turbine blades that make up the rotors of modern wind turbines is also very large, which poses a huge challenge to the transportation of modern wind turbine blades.

[0003] In particular, due to their significant length, modern turbine blades are often exposed to significant bending or torsional stresses during transportation (eg, when turning or navigating across a slope or inclined road), which may damage the composite materials of the blades.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device for reducing the bending and / or torsional stresses imposed on a given wind turbine blade during transport. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a ground transport vehicle for supporting a tip end of a wind turbine blade, the transport vehicle comprising:

[0006] a chassis having at least one ground contacting element;

[0007] a clamping device configured to secure a tip of a wind turbine blade to a chassis; and

[0008] an adjustment mechanism configured to allow the clamping device to move relative to the chassis,

[0009] Therein, the adjustment mechanism is configured to allow the clamping device to rotate about at least one horizontal axis.

[0010] Advantageously, providing an adjustment mechanism configured to allow movement of the clamping device about the first and / or second horizontal axes allows the transporter to better account for bending or torsional loads that may arise during transport and thereby help prevent such loads from being applied to the turbine blade.

[0011] In some examples, the clamping device may be rotatably mounted to the chassis to allow the clamping device to rotate relative to the chassis about a vertical (Z) axis.

[0012] In some examples, the clamping device may be mounted to the chassis via a rotation table.

[0013] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may be pivotally mounted to the clamping device to allow the clamping device to rotate about the first axis and / or the horizontal axis.

[0014] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may be pivotally mounted to the clamping device via at least one ball joint link.

[0015] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a first linear actuator configured to adjust a height of the first portion of the clamping device relative to the chassis.

[0016] In some examples, the first linear actuator may be oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to a horizontal plane.

[0017] Advantageously, providing a linear actuator oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to horizontal better allows the adjustment mechanism to make fine horizontal adjustments to the height of the clamping device.

[0018] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a first pair of legs pivotably mounted to the clamping device.

[0019] In some examples, the first linear actuator may be disposed between the first pair of legs.

[0020] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a second linear actuator configured to adjust the height of the second portion of the clamping device relative to the chassis.

[0021] In some examples, the second linear actuator may be oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to horizontal.

[0022] Advantageously, providing a linear actuator oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to horizontal better allows the adjustment mechanism to be fine-tuned to account for slopes and cambers along roads during transport, thereby helping to prevent associated bending or torsional loads from being applied to the turbine blades.

[0023] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a second pair of legs pivotably mounted to the clamping device.

[0024] In some examples, a second linear actuator may be disposed between the second pair of legs.

[0025] In some examples, the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator may include hydraulic cylinders.

[0026] In some examples, the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder may be connected in fluid communication with each other.

[0027] In some examples, the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs can be configured to engage with corresponding rails.

[0028] In some examples, the rails may be oriented along a longitudinal axis of the chassis to allow the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs to translate along the length of the chassis.

[0029] In some examples, the rails may be oriented along a transverse axis of the chassis to allow the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs to translate across the width of the chassis.

[0030] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may be configured to allow the clamping device to rotate relative to the chassis about a first horizontal axis and a second horizontal axis.

[0031] In some examples, the second horizontal axis can be perpendicular to the first horizontal axis.

[0032] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a swing frame configured to allow the clamping device to rotate about the first horizontal axis or the second horizontal axis.

[0033] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may be actively controlled.

[0034] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a plurality of linear actuators configured to allow vertical translation of the clamping device relative to the chassis and configured to allow rotation of the clamping device relative to the chassis about first and second horizontal axes.

[0035] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may include a hexapod of linear actuators.

[0036] In some examples, each linear actuator may be oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to horizontal.

[0037] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism may be actively controlled.

[0038] In some examples, the clamping arrangement may be configured to engage the wind turbine blade across a chord-wise portion of the wind turbine blade.

[0039] In some examples, the clamping device may include a clamshell device having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a hinge connecting the upper portion and the lower portion to allow the upper portion to pivot relative to the lower portion between an open position and a closed position.

[0040] In some examples, the transporter may be a mobile trailer.

[0041] In some examples, the clamping device may be secured to the chassis to substantially prevent translation of the clamping device along a horizontal plane of the chassis.

[0042] In some examples, the transporter may be an extendable trailer.

[0043] In some examples, the clamping device may be slidably mounted to the chassis, optionally via one or more rails, to allow the clamping device to translate along a horizontal plane of the chassis.

[0044] Advantageously, providing the clamping device slidably mounted to the chassis allows the center of gravity of the clamping device to shift as it tilts / rolls, which helps to maintain a more even load on the transporter as the turbine blades rotate.

[0045] In some examples, the clamping device may be slidably mounted to the chassis, optionally via one or more rails, to allow the clamping device to translate along the length of the chassis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1 A front view of a wind turbine is shown;

[0048] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a transport vehicle according to one example of the claimed invention, wherein the transport vehicle is a mobile trailer;

[0049] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a transport vehicle according to another example of the claimed invention, wherein the transport vehicle is an extendable trailer;

[0050] Figure 4 A method for securing the tip of a wind turbine blade to a suitable transport vehicle such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 A perspective view of a clamping device of a transport vehicle shown in FIG.

[0051] Figure 5 A perspective view of an adjustment mechanism according to an example of the present invention is shown, which is suitable for adjusting a clamping device (such as Figure 4 The clamping device shown) is mounted to a transport vehicle (such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 transport vehicle shown);

[0052] Figure 6 a perspective view showing an adjustment mechanism according to another example of the claimed invention; and

[0053] Figure 7 A perspective view of another adjustment mechanism according to yet another example of the claimed invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Figure 1A wind turbine 1 is shown comprising a nacelle 2 supported on a tower 3 which is mounted on a foundation 4. The wind turbine 1 depicted here is an onshore wind turbine such that the foundation 4 is embedded in the ground, but the wind turbine 1 may be an offshore installation, in which case the foundation 4 would be provided by a suitable marine platform such as a monopile or a jacket.

[0055] The nacelle 2 supports a rotor 5 including a hub 6 to which three blades 7 are attached. The blades 7 constituting the rotor 5 of the wind turbine 1 each include a tip end located distally from the hub 6 and a root end located proximal to the hub 6. It should be noted that the wind turbine 1 is a common type of horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) such that the rotor 5 is mounted at the nacelle 2 to rotate about a substantially horizontal axis defined at the center at the hub 6. As is well known, the blades 7 are acted upon by the wind, which causes the rotor 5 to rotate about its axis, thereby operating a power generation device through a gearbox (not shown) housed in the nacelle 2. Figure 1 The power generation equipment is not shown in the figure because it is not central to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Wind turbine blades, e.g. Figure 1 Those shown in , are typically made of glass or carbon fiber reinforced composites and may therefore be susceptible to damage due to bending or torsional forces, particularly when such forces are applied in a direction perpendicular to the orientation of the fiber reinforcements within the blade. One of the most common scenarios is where bending or torsional forces may be applied to wind turbine blades during transportation. For example, when turning or traveling on hilly terrain, there may be a significant difference between the horizontal or vertical position of the root end of the turbine blade relative to the tip of the turbine blade, which may potentially result in bending stresses being applied to the blade. Similarly, when traveling on sloping terrain, there may be a significant difference between the orientation of the root end of the turbine blade relative to the tip of the turbine blade, which may potentially result in torsional (or twisting) forces being applied to the blade.

[0057] The present disclosure relates to a ground transport vehicle for supporting a tip end of a wind turbine blade.

[0058] The term "ground transporter" is used herein to describe a vehicle or trailer that can be used to transport a wind turbine over solid ground, such as along a road or rail line.

[0059] In some examples, the ground transport vehicle can be provided in the form of a mobile trailer (or road dolly) for a road vehicle. In other examples, the transport vehicle can be a rail trailer (or rail dolly) for a locomotive or other form of rail vehicle. In addition, in some examples, the transport vehicle can be an extendable trailer or a self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT). It should also be understood that in some examples, the transport vehicle can be a vehicle, such as a road vehicle (e.g., a flatbed truck) or a rail vehicle (e.g., a locomotive or other form of motor vehicle).

[0060] In the example shown, the first horizontal axis (X) is defined as extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transporter, and therefore extends along the length of the transporter. A second horizontal (Y) axis is also defined, which extends in a direction parallel to the transverse axis of the transporter, and therefore extends across the width of the transporter perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. However, it should be understood that in some examples, the first horizontal axis and the second horizontal axis can have different orientations. In some examples, the first horizontal axis can be defined as an axis parallel to the transverse axis of the transporter, and the second horizontal axis can be defined as an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transporter. It should also be understood that in some examples, the angle formed between the first horizontal axis and the second horizontal axis can be greater than 90 degrees or less than 90 degrees.

[0061] Figure 2 and Figure 3 An example of a suitable transporter that may be used to support the tip of a wind turbine blade during transport is shown in FIG.

[0062] Figure 2 An example transporter is shown, where the transporter is provided as a mobile trailer 10. The mobile trailer 10 includes a chassis 12, which may be supported on a plurality of wheels 14 disposed along the length of the chassis on either side of the chassis 12. However, it should be appreciated that in some examples, the transporter may include a different form of ground contacting elements, such as tracks.

[0063] The chassis 12 comprises a substantially flat upper surface 16 to which a clamping device may be mounted, as will be described in more detail at a later stage of the application. When in use, the clamping device is used to secure the tip of a wind turbine blade to a transport vehicle.

[0064] A "dolly" or "mobile trailer" is a type of trailer in which the trailer (or dolly) is not directly attached to a towing vehicle (e.g., a motor vehicle or rail vehicle). As such, when a dolly is used, all traction provided by the towing vehicle is applied to the dolly via the turbine blades. In other words, when mounted on the dolly, the blades themselves essentially serve as connectors connecting the dolly to the towing vehicle. As a result, significant bending stresses may be induced in the blades during transport, particularly when turning.

[0065] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the clamp is rotatably mounted to the chassis 12 to allow the clamp to rotate relative to the chassis about a substantially vertical (Z) axis. Advantageously, allowing the clamp to rotate relative to the chassis about a substantially vertical axis helps to counteract bending stresses that may occur during cornering.

[0066] In the example shown, the vertical (Z) axis is oriented perpendicular to the first (X) and second (Y) horizontal axes of the transporter. However, it should be understood that in other examples, the angle formed between the vertical axis and the first and second horizontal axes may be greater than 90 degrees or less than 90 degrees.

[0067] A rotatable mount may be provided to rotatably mount the clamping device to the chassis. The rotatable mount may be configured to allow the clamping device to rotate approximately 360 degrees relative to the chassis, but in some examples, the degree of rotation allowed by the rotatable mount may be less than 360 degrees.

[0068] The rotatable mount, and therefore the clamping device secured thereto, may be secured to the chassis such that the clamping device is substantially prevented from translating along a horizontal plane defined by an upper surface of the chassis. Advantageously, securing the clamping device relative to the chassis helps prevent "lag" between movement of the towing vehicle and movement of the transporter when the transporter is configured in the form of a moving trailer. However, in other examples, it will be appreciated that the rotatable mount may be secured to the chassis via rails, tracks, or other suitable arrangements that allow the rotatable mount to translate along the first horizontal axis and / or the second horizontal axis of the transporter.

[0069] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the rotatable mount is provided in the form of a rotating table 18. The rotating table 18 includes a fixed portion 18a, which can be fixed to the upper surface 16 of the transport vehicle so that translation of the rotating table relative to the chassis 12 is substantially prevented, and a rotating portion 18B, which can be rotatably mounted to the fixed portion 18a.

[0070] The rotatable mount may be secured to the upper surface of the transport vehicle approximately midway along the length of the chassis. Figure 2As shown, the fixed portion 18a of the rotating table 18 is fixed to the upper surface 16 of the trailer 10 approximately midway along the length of the chassis 12. However, it should be understood that in some examples, the rotatable mount may be provided at other locations along the length of the chassis.

[0071] at the same time, Figure 3 An exemplary transporter is shown, wherein the transporter is configured as an extendable trailer 20. Figure 2 Like the mobile trailer 10 shown in FIG. Figure 3 The extendable trailer 20 shown in FIG. 1 also includes a chassis 22 that may be supported on a plurality of wheels 24 disposed on either side of the chassis 22 along the length of the chassis. Figure 2 Likewise, it should be appreciated that in some examples the transporter may include different forms of ground contacting elements, such as tracks or other suitable ground contacting elements.

[0072] The chassis 22 also includes a substantially flat upper surface 26 to which a clamping device may be mounted to secure the tip of the wind turbine blade to the transporter when in use. A connecting element 23 (e.g., a connecting beam) may also be provided at the front end of the chassis 22 for attaching the rear end of the extendable trailer (e.g., Figure 3 The turbine blade is connected to a front end (not shown) of the extendable trailer, the rear end being configured to receive the tip of the turbine blade, and the front end typically supports the root end of the turbine blade.

[0073] An "extendable trailer" is a different class of trailer than a mobile trailer. Notably, an "extendable trailer" does not use the turbine blade as the primary connector between the towing vehicle and the trailer. In other words, when an extendable trailer is used, the traction provided by the towing vehicle is not applied directly through the blade. Therefore, the blade is not generally exposed to the same amount of bending stress when transporting the blade using an extendable trailer. However, when an extendable trailer is used, it is generally desirable to allow translation of the blade to help account for compressive and tensile stresses that may be applied to the blade during acceleration or deceleration of the transporter, and to allow the center of gravity of the clamping device to shift during transport to maintain a more even load on the transporter.

[0074] Thus, the clamping device may be slidably mounted to the chassis to allow translation of the clamping device along a horizontal plane defined by an upper surface of the chassis.

[0075] Advantageously, providing the clamping device slidably mounted to the chassis allows the center of gravity of the clamping device to shift as the blade pitches / rolls, which helps to maintain a more even load on the transporter as the turbine blades rotate.

[0076] exist Figure 3In the example shown, the clamping device is slidably mounted to the chassis so as to allow the clamping device to translate along a first horizontal axis, i.e. longitudinally along the length of the chassis. Advantageously, allowing the clamping device to translate along the first horizontal axis (i.e. longitudinally along the length of the chassis) allows the center of gravity of the clamping device to move fore and aft to account for tilting of the blade during transport.

[0077] However, it should be understood that in other examples, the clamping device may be slidably mounted to the chassis so as to allow the clamping device to translate along the second horizontal axis (i.e., laterally across the width of the chassis). Advantageously, allowing the clamping device to translate along the second horizontal axis (i.e., laterally across the width of the chassis) allows the center of gravity of the clamping device to move left and right to account for rolling of the blade during transport.

[0078] It should also be appreciated that in some examples, the clamping device may be permitted to translate in any direction along a horizontal plane defined by the upper surface of the chassis or along both the first horizontal axis and the second horizontal axis.

[0079] Examples of suitable slidable mountings that can be used to mount the clamping device to the chassis include guide slots, tracks, rails and rollers. It should also be understood that in other examples, alternative forms of slidable mounting may be used.

[0080] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the guide rail 28 is provided on the upper surface of the trailer 20. The guide rail 28 is oriented in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer 20 and extends partially along the length of the chassis 22.

[0081] However, it should be understood that in other examples, the clamping device may be slidably mounted to the chassis 20 to allow the clamping device to translate along the second horizontal (Y) axis (i.e., laterally along the width of the chassis 22). In such an example, if side-to-side movement (rather than fore-and-aft movement) is desired, the guide rails 28 may be oriented laterally across the width of the transport vehicle.

[0082] Figure 3 The guide rail 28 shown in FIG. 2 is configured to receive a corresponding trolley 29 to which the clamping device can be mounted.

[0083] A dolly 29 is provided that includes a set of wheels 29a that are configured to be received within corresponding slots (not shown) extending along the length of the rails 28. This configuration enables the dolly 29 to translate along the length of the transporter 20, but substantially constrains the dolly from movement in any direction other than a direction extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the transporter.

[0084] exist Figure 3In the example shown, the slidable mount is arranged to substantially prevent the clamping device from rotating about the vertical (Z) axis. However, it should be understood that in some examples, a mount that allows the clamping device to translate along the first horizontal axis and / or the second horizontal axis in addition to allowing rotation about the vertical (Z) axis can be envisioned.

[0085] As described above, the rotatable or slidable mount is designed to support a clamping device configured to engage a portion of the turbine blade proximate the tip of the turbine blade to secure it to the chassis of the transport vehicle.

[0086] The clamping device may be configured to engage the wind turbine blade across a chord-wise portion of the blade. Figure 4 An example of a suitable clamping device 30 is shown in .

[0087] Figure 4 The clamping device 30 shown in FIG. 1 is configured as a clamshell device and is configured to engage a wind turbine blade across a chord-wise portion of the blade. The clamping device includes an upper portion 32 and a lower portion 34, with a hinge 36 positioned between the upper portion 32 and the lower portion 34 to enable the upper portion 32 to be in an open position and a closed position relative to the lower portion 44 (the closed position is Figure 4 ) between the two.

[0088] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the upper and lower portions 32, 34 are provided as a frame of elongated members, wherein each portion includes a pair of outer members 32a, b and 34a, b defining the perimeter of the upper and lower portions 32, 34, and a series of cross members 38 extending vertically between the outer members 32a, b and 34a, b. Figure 4 In the example shown, outer members 32a and 34a are connected via a first hinge joint 36a, and outer members 32b and 34b are connected via a second hinge joint 36b that together form hinge 36. However, it will be appreciated that in other examples, other forms of clamping arrangements may be used.

[0089] An adjustment mechanism is provided to allow relative movement between the clamping device and the chassis. The adjustment mechanism may be directly coupled between the clamping device and the chassis, or in some examples may be indirectly coupled between the clamping device and the chassis.

[0090] The adjustment mechanism may be configured to allow the clamping device to rotate relative to the chassis about the first and / or second horizontal axes.

[0091] The adjustment mechanism may be provided as a series of rotatable links, a series of rotatable mounts, a series of actuators, or via a combination of the above.

[0092] Advantageously, providing an adjustment mechanism configured to allow movement of the clamping device about the first and / or second horizontal axes allows the transporter to better account for bending or torsional loads that may arise during transport and thereby help prevent such loads from being applied to the turbine blade.

[0093] Figure 5 An example of an adjustment mechanism 100 according to the present invention is shown in FIG.

[0094] Figure 5 The illustrated adjustment mechanism 100 is configured to allow the clamping device 30 to rotate about first (X) and second (Y) horizontal axes. Figure 5 In the example shown, the transport vehicle is provided as a mobile trailer 10 having a rotatable mount 18 , so that the clamping device 30 can also be rotated relative to the trailer chassis 12 about a vertical (Z) axis.

[0095] However, it should be understood that the adjustment mechanism 100 may also be used with the extendable trailer 20 in other examples, such as Figure 3 In such an example, the clamping device 30 may alternatively be slidably mounted to the trailer 20 such that the clamping device 30 is translatable in a horizontal plane relative to the chassis 22, rather than being rotatable about a vertical (Z) axis.

[0096] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the adjustment mechanism 100 is pivotally mounted to the underside of the clamping device 30 to allow the clamping device 30 to rotate about a first horizontal (X) axis.

[0097] As described above, this feature allows the clamp (and therefore the turbine blade secured thereto) to roll to either side of the first horizontal axis. This helps prevent torsional forces from being applied to the blade that may be generated when traveling across sloped or curved terrain during transportation. However, it should be understood that in other examples, such as Figure 7 In the example shown, an adjustment mechanism may be pivotally mounted to the underside of the clamp 30 to allow the clamp 30 to rotate about a second horizontal (Y) axis. This feature allows the clamp (and therefore the turbine blade secured thereto) to be tilted about the second horizontal axis. This helps prevent bending forces from being applied to the blade during transport that may occur when traveling across inclined or declining terrain.

[0098] The adjustment mechanism 100 is pivotally mounted to the clamp 30 by a series of ball joint links 102 located on the underside of the outer members 34a, b forming the clamp 30. However, it will be appreciated that in other examples other forms of suitable links may be used. Figure 5In the example shown, four ball joint links are provided (two per member). However, it will be appreciated that in other examples, a different number of links may be used.

[0099] The first pair of legs 104 are pivotally mounted to the clamping device 30 .

[0100] In some examples, such as Figure 5 In the example shown, the first pair of legs may be pivotally connected to the clamp 30 via a ball joint link 102 disposed on the underside of one of the outer members 34a. However, in other examples, different forms of connection may be used.

[0101] The second pair of legs 106 may also be pivotally mounted to the clamping device 30 .

[0102] In some examples, the second pair of legs may be pivotally connected to the clamping device 30 via a ball joint link 102 disposed on the underside of the other outer member 34b, such as Figure 5 However, in other examples, different forms of connection may be used.

[0103] The clamping device can be pivotally connected to the first end of each leg. The second end of each leg can be received in a corresponding guide rail. In some examples, the guide rail can be arranged as a pair of guide rails.

[0104] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, a pair of rails 108a, 108b are provided that are oriented parallel to the second horizontal (Y) axis and thus extend laterally across the width of the chassis 12 of the transport vehicle 10. The first pair of legs 104 are received within the first rails 108a, and the second pair of legs 106 are received within the second rails 108b. The pair of rails 108a, 108b are configured to allow the legs to translate along the length of each rail, and thus each leg can freely translate laterally across the width of the chassis 12. However, the orientation and construction of each rail substantially prevents the legs from moving along the first horizontal (X) axis (i.e., along the length of the chassis 12). Alternatively, in some examples, the rails can be oriented along the longitudinal axis of the chassis to allow the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs to translate along the length of the chassis while substantially preventing the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs from translating across the width of the chassis, such as Figure 7 This is shown in the example shown, which will be described in more detail later in this application.

[0105] Movement of the first pair of legs and the second pair of legs along each of the respective rails allows the relative height of the clamping device 30 and the chassis 12 to be adjusted, as may be required for passage along a road having limited vertical clearance. Notably, when the legs are oriented substantially perpendicular to the rails (i.e., when the legs are at their most upright), the height of the clamping device relative to the chassis will be greatest.

[0106] However, as the second of each leg is allowed to translate (or splay) along each rail away from their connection to the clamp 30, the legs will be oriented at increasingly smaller angles and the relative height of the clamp 30 will decrease. Thus, this arrangement allows the clamp to translate along a vertical (Z) axis.

[0107] The adjustment mechanism may include one or more linear actuators configured to adjust the height of the clamping device relative to the chassis. This allows active control of the adjustment mechanism to vary the height of the clamping device, which may be necessary for navigation along a road with limited vertical clearance. The linear actuator may be provided in the form of one or more hydraulic actuators, or a different form of actuator may be used.

[0108] One or more linear actuators may be oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. Advantageously, by orienting the linear actuators at a smaller angle, the adjustment mechanism is better able to make fine horizontal adjustments to the height of the clamping device.

[0109] In some examples, a pair of first and second actuators 110 , 112 may be disposed between each pair of legs 104 , 106 to allow for active adjustment of the height of the clamping device 30 relative to the chassis 12 .

[0110] like Figure 5 As shown, the first actuator 110 may be disposed between the first pair of legs 104, and the second actuator 112 may be disposed between the second pair of legs 106. In this way, the first actuator 110 may be configured to adjust the height of one of the outer members 34a (i.e., the first portion) of the clamping device 30 relative to the chassis 12, and the second actuator 112 may be configured to adjust the height of the other outer member 34b (i.e., the second portion) of the clamping device 30 relative to the chassis 12.

[0111] In some examples, the first actuator 110 can be oriented substantially parallel to the second horizontal (Y) axis and can extend laterally across the width of the chassis 12, such as Figure 5Similarly, the second actuator 112 may also be oriented substantially parallel to the second horizontal (Y) axis and may extend laterally across the width of the chassis 12. However, in other examples, the angle formed between the first actuator and / or the second actuator and the first horizontal axis or the second horizontal axis may fall between 0 degrees and 45 degrees. It should also be understood that in some examples, such as Figure 7 In the example shown, the first actuator and the second actuator may also be oriented substantially parallel to the first horizontal (X) axis and may therefore extend longitudinally along the length of the chassis 12 .

[0112] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the first actuator 110 and the second actuator 112 are provided in the form of first and second hydraulic cylinders, but it will be appreciated that in other examples, alternative types of actuators may be used.

[0113] In examples where the first actuator and / or the second actuator is a hydraulic actuator (such as Figure 5 In the example shown, to reduce the height of the clamping device 30 (i.e., to reduce the distance between the clamping device 30 and the chassis 12), pressurized fluid is introduced into the cylinder of each actuator. This will cause the pressure in the cylinder to increase, which in turn will act on the piston and extend it.

[0114] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the first actuator 110 and the second actuator 112 are coupled to the first pair of legs 104 and the second pair of legs 106. Notably, the first end of each actuator is coupled to one of the legs received within each rail 108a, b, and the second end of each actuator is coupled to the other leg received within each rail 108a, b. Thus, as the stroke of the piston increases, the corresponding leg is pushed outward along the length of the rails 108a, 108b, thereby reducing the angle of each leg, which in turn lowers the clamp 30.

[0115] Conversely, the height of the clamp 30 may also be increased back to its maximum height (at Figure 5 , wherein the legs 104, 106 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the rail 108), this will cause the piston to retract, thereby steepening the angle of the legs 104, 106 supporting the clamp, which in turn increases the height of the clamp (i.e., increases the distance between the clamp 30 and the chassis 12).

[0116] exist Figure 5In the example shown, the first hydraulic device and the second hydraulic device are not connected so that the two actuators can be independently controlled via a controller, etc. However, it should be understood that in some examples, the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder can be arranged in fluid communication with each other via a hose or other suitable fluid-tight connection.

[0117] The adjustment mechanism may also include a swing frame configured to allow the clamping device to rotate about a second horizontal (Y) axis (eg, Figure 5 ). This feature enables the adjustment mechanism to account for the pitch that may be encountered when traveling along an inclined or declining road, which if not accounted for, may result in bending stresses being imposed in the blades. However, it should be understood that in other examples, the swing frame may be configured to allow the clamping device to rotate about the first horizontal (X) axis. This feature enables the adjustment mechanism to account for the roll that may be encountered when traveling along an inclined or curved road, which if not accounted for, may result in torsional stresses being imposed in the blades.

[0118] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the swing frame 120 is generally V-shaped and includes a pair of arms 122, 124, each arm supporting one of the respective rails 108a, 108b. The apex of the swing frame 120 is mounted to the rotatable mount 18 via a support pin (or other suitable device) that extends laterally across the width of the chassis (parallel to the second horizontal (Y) axis), thereby allowing the swing frame 120 to swing (or rotate) about the second horizontal (Y) axis.

[0119] However, it should be understood that in examples where the first and second actuators are fluidly connected (which results in the stroke of one actuator being lengthened as the stroke of the other actuator is shortened), rotation of the clamping device 30 about the first (X) axis or the second horizontal (Y) axis can be provided by the legs and actuator arrangement alone, and thus, in such examples, the swing frame 120 can be omitted. However, in order to provide height adjustment in a system with a connected hydraulic actuator, the hydraulic cylinder would need to be placed in a neutral position and more fluid would need to be introduced into the system. Therefore, while height adjustment in such a system is still possible, it is less practical than a system in which the actuators are not fluidly connected.

[0120] It should also be understood that while the present invention has been described with respect to an image in which the rotatable mount is in a substantially neutral (0 degree) position about the vertical (Z) axis, Figure 5 , however, it will be appreciated that in the case where the rotatable mount is in the 90 degree or 270 degree position, the first (X) and second (Y) horizontal axes will be flipped and thus the first (X) horizontal axis will extend laterally across the width of the chassis and the second (Y) horizontal axis will extend longitudinally along the length of the chassis.

[0121] Figure 5 The illustrated example advantageously provides an adjustment mechanism that enables the height and orientation of the tip of a wind turbine blade to be more actively controlled and better allows for fine levels of adjustment of the height of the clamp during use.

[0122] Figure 6 An example of another adjustment mechanism 200 according to the present invention is shown in FIG.

[0123] Figure 6 The illustrated adjustment mechanism 200 is also configured to allow the clamping device 30 to rotate about first (X) and second (Y) horizontal axes. Figure 5 Same, in Figure 6 In the example shown, the transport vehicle is provided as a mobile trailer 10 having a rotatable mount 18 , so that the clamping device 30 can also be rotated relative to the trailer chassis 12 about a vertical (Z) axis.

[0124] However, it should be understood that the adjustment mechanism 200 may also be used with the extendable trailer 20 in other examples, such as Figure 3 In such an example, rather than being rotatable about a vertical (Z) axis, the clamping device 30 may be slidably mounted to the transport vehicle so that the clamping device 30 can translate relative to the chassis 22 in a horizontal plane.

[0125] The adjustment mechanism 200 includes a plurality of linear actuators 210 arranged to allow the clamping device 30 to rotate about first (X) and second (Y) horizontal axes, and also to allow the clamping device 30 to translate along a vertical (Z) axis relative to the chassis 12. This enables the adjustment mechanism 200 to account for bending or twisting forces that may be applied to the blade when traveling across a declined or sloping terrain, and enables the adjustment mechanism 200 to vary the height of the clamping device 30, which may be useful when traveling along a road with limited vertical clearance.

[0126] The linear actuator 210 can be directly connected to the clamping device. In other words, in some examples, the force generated by the linear actuator can be applied directly to the clamping device, rather than via a series of linkages. Figure 6 In the example shown, the linear actuators are fixed to the rotating table 18 at one end and are rotatably connected to the underside of the clamping device 30 at their other end via a ball joint or other suitable connector. However, in other examples (such as Figure 5 and Figure 7 ), the linear actuator can be indirectly coupled to the clamping device.

[0127] exist Figure 6In the example shown, the linear actuators are arranged as a hexapod of six hydraulic cylinders. Three linear actuators are arranged between the rotating table 18 and the underside of the first outer member 34a of the clamping device 30, and three linear actuators are arranged between the rotatable mount 18 and the underside of the second outer member 34b of the clamping device 30. However, it should be understood that in other examples, a different number of actuators may be used, as long as at least one actuator is connected to the clamping device on either side of its rotation axis about both the first horizontal axis (X) and the second horizontal axis (Y).

[0128] The plurality of linear actuators may be oriented at an angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, such as Figure 6 However, it should be appreciated that in other examples, multiple linear actuators may be positioned at smaller angles (ie, between 0 and 45 degrees) to provide a finer level of adjustment of the orientation and height of the clamping device.

[0129] As mentioned above Figure 5 As described, the strokes of the respective pistons of the plurality of linear actuators can be adjusted to change the respective heights of a portion of the clamping device to which the linear actuators are attached. Thus, by actively controlling the stroke of each hydraulic actuator via a controller or other suitable device, the adjustment mechanism 200 can change the vertical position of different portions of the clamping device 30, thereby enabling the clamping device 30 to rotate about the first (X) and (Y) horizontal axes and allowing the height of the clamping device 30 to be adjusted.

[0130] For example, to allow rotation about a first horizontal (X) axis, the linear actuators connected to the clamp (30) on one side of its axis of rotation can be extended, while those connected on the other side of its axis of rotation can be retracted, thereby allowing the clamp to roll. Similarly, to allow rotation about a second horizontal (Y) axis, the linear actuators connected to the clamp 30 before its axis of rotation can be extended, while those connected after its axis of rotation can be retracted, thereby allowing the clamp to tilt. In addition, each linear actuator can be extended or retracted in unison, thereby allowing the height of the clamp 30 to be raised or lowered.

[0131] Figure 6 The illustrated example advantageously provides an adjustment mechanism that is highly controllable and allows the clamping device to be oriented in a large number of different orientations. As a result, the amount of torsional stress imposed on a wind turbine blade supported on such a device is virtually zero.

[0132] Finally, another example of an adjustment mechanism 300 according to the present invention is Figure 7 Shown in.

[0133] and Figure 5 and Figure 6 Like the organization shown in Figure 7 The adjustment mechanism 300 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to allow the clamping device 30 to rotate about first (X) and second (Y) horizontal axes.

[0134] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, the transporter is configured as an extendable trailer 20, so the clamping device 30 is slidably mounted to the trailer 20 to allow the clamping device 30 to translate along a first horizontal (X) axis relative to the chassis 22. However, it should be understood that in other examples, the clamping device 30 can be slidably mounted to the trailer 20 to allow the clamping device 30 to translate along a second horizontal (Y) axis, or the adjustment mechanism 300 can be used with a mobile trailer 10 having a rotatable mount 18, so that the clamping device 30 can rotate about a vertical (Z) axis relative to the trailer chassis 12.

[0135] and Figure 5 As in the example shown, Figure 7 In the example shown, the adjustment mechanism 300 is pivotally mounted to the underside of the clamp 30 by a series of ball joint links 302 located on the underside of the outer members 34a, b forming the clamp 30. Figure 7 In the example shown, the ball joint link 302 is oriented to allow the clamping device 30 to rotate about a second horizontal (Y) axis that extends laterally across the width of the chassis, rather than Figure 5 A first horizontal (X) axis in the case of the example shown.

[0136] exist Figure 7 In the clamping device 30, the outer members 34a, b of the clamping device 30 are each provided with two ball joint links 302, each ball joint link 302 being provided at a corresponding position on the lower side of each member 34a, b. Two pairs of legs 304, 306 are pivotally mounted to the clamping device 30 via the ball joint links 302, wherein each pair of legs 304, 306 has one leg connected to the ball joint link 302 on the frontmost outer member 34a and the other leg connected to the ball joint link 302 on the rearmost outer member 34b. The ball joint link 302 is coupled to a first end of each leg close to the clamping device 30, wherein a second end of each leg is received in a corresponding guide rail 308.

[0137] A pair of rails 308a, 308b are arranged to be oriented parallel to the first horizontal (X) axis and thus extend longitudinally along the length of the chassis 22 of the transport vehicle 10, rather than being arranged in a substantially parallel relationship to the first horizontal (X) axis. Figure 5 As is the case in the example shown, the chassis is laterally spread across its width.

[0138] The first pair of legs 304 are received in a first rail 308a located on one side (in this case, the left side) of the chassis 22, and the second leg is received in a second rail 308b located on the other side (in this case, the right side) of the chassis 22. The pair of rails 308a, 308b are configured to allow the legs to translate along the length of each rail, so each leg can freely translate longitudinally along the length of the chassis 22. However, the orientation and configuration of each rail substantially prevents the legs from moving along the second horizontal (Y) axis (i.e., across the width of the chassis 22).

[0139] and Figure 5 As in the example shown, a pair of first actuators 310 and second actuators 312 are disposed between each pair of legs 304, 306. The first actuator 310 is disposed between the first pair of legs 304, and the second actuator 312 is disposed between the second pair of legs 306. Figure 7 In the example shown, the first actuator 310 and the second actuator 312 are provided in the form of first and second hydraulic cylinders, but it will be appreciated that in other examples, alternative types of actuators may be used.

[0140] However, with Figure 5 Unlike the example shown, Figure 7 In the example shown, the first actuator 310 is oriented substantially parallel to the first horizontal (X) axis and extends longitudinally along one side of the chassis 22. Thus, the first actuator 310 is oriented at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. Similarly, the second actuator 312 is also oriented substantially parallel to the first horizontal (X) axis, extends longitudinally along the other side of the chassis 22, and is therefore also oriented at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the horizontal plane.

[0141] The first actuator 310 is configured to adjust the height of a first side (the left side in this case) of the clamping device 30 relative to the chassis 22, and the second actuator 312 is configured to adjust the height of the other side (the right side in this case) of the clamping device 30 relative to the chassis 22.

[0142] As already about Figure 5 As described above, each end of the first actuator 310 and the second actuator 312 is connected to a corresponding leg. Figure 7 In the example shown, one end of the first actuator 310 is connected to a leg connected to the front-most member 34a on the left-hand side of the chassis 22, and the other end is connected to a leg connected to the rear-most member 34b on the left-hand side of the chassis 22. Similarly, one end of the second actuator 312 is connected to a leg connected to the front-most member 34a on the right-hand side of the chassis 22, and the other end is connected to a leg connected to the rear-most member 34b on the right-hand side of the chassis 22.

[0143] When the legs 304, 306 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the rails (i.e., when the legs are at their most upright), the height of the clamping device 30 relative to the chassis 22 will be greatest. However, as the stroke length of the first actuator 310 or the second actuator 312 increases, a force will be applied to each leg connected to the actuator, causing them to translate (or open) along their respective rails 308 away from the ball joint link 302 connecting the clamping device 30 to each leg. Thus, as the stroke of the actuator increases, the corresponding leg 304, 306 is pushed along the length of the rails 308a, 308b, thereby causing the angle of each leg 304, 306 to become shallower / smaller, which causes the relative height of the clamping device 30 near each leg 306, 308 to decrease as the stroke length of the actuator 310, 312 increases.

[0144] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, the first and second hydraulic cylinders are fluidly connected via a hose or other suitable device. Thus, when fluid is allowed to flow into the cylinder of one of the actuators (to increase the stroke of the piston and thus lower one side of the clamping device), the amount of fluid present in the cylinder of the other actuator will be reduced, thereby retracting the piston of the other actuator. Thus, when one of the first or second actuators is activated (and its stroke length increases), the clamping device 30 will tilt toward that side. Thus, the actuation of the first and second hydraulic cylinders can be controlled by a controller or other suitable device to rotate the clamping device 30 about the first horizontal (X) axis.

[0145] therefore, Figure 7 The adjustment mechanism 300 shown in FIG. 1 can take into account the slope angle of the terrain on which the transporter is traveling, thereby helping to prevent torsional (or twisting) loads from being applied to the blades. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The adjustment mechanism 300 has fewer components when compared to the components shown, and therefore also provides a more compact adjustment mechanism for the end user.

[0146] As previously described, in examples where the first actuator and the second actuator are fluidly connected (which causes the stroke of one actuator to lengthen as the stroke of the other actuator shortens), the clamping device can also be translated along the vertical (Z) axis (so as to increase or decrease the distance between the clamping device 30 and the chassis) via the introduction or removal of fluid from the hydraulic cylinders of the respective actuators, and thus height adjustment can also be achieved when using an adjustment mechanism according to such an example.

[0147] Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more preferred examples, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A ground transport vehicle for supporting the tip of a wind turbine blade, the transport vehicle include: a chassis having at least one ground contacting element; a clamping device configured to secure a tip of a wind turbine blade to the chassis; as well as an adjustment mechanism configured to allow the clamping device to move relative to the chassis, Wherein, the adjustment mechanism is configured to allow the clamping device to rotate about at least one horizontal axis.

2. The transport vehicle according to claim 1, in, The clamping device is rotatably mounted to the chassis to allow the clamping device to rotate relative to the chassis about a vertical (Z) axis, and preferably wherein the clamping device is mounted to the chassis via a rotation stage.

3. The transport vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, in, The adjustment mechanism is pivotably connected to the clamping device so as to allow the clamping device to be rotated about the at least one horizontal axis, optionally via at least one ball joint link.

4. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The adjustment mechanism includes a first linear actuator configured to adjust a height of a first portion of the clamping device relative to the chassis, and wherein the first linear actuator is oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to a horizontal plane.

5. The transport vehicle according to claim 4, in, The adjustment mechanism comprises a first pair of legs pivotably connected to the clamping device, and wherein the first linear actuator is disposed between the first pair of legs.

6. The transport vehicle according to claim 4 or 5, in, The adjustment mechanism includes a second linear actuator configured to adjust a height of a second portion of the clamping device relative to the chassis, and wherein the second linear actuator is oriented at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to the horizontal plane.

7. The transport vehicle according to claim 6, in, The adjustment mechanism includes a second pair of legs pivotably connected to the clamping device, and wherein the second linear actuator is disposed between the second pair of legs.

8. The transport vehicle according to any one of claims 6 or 7, in, The first linear actuator and the second linear actuator include hydraulic cylinders, and wherein the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder are connected in fluid communication with each other.

9. The transport vehicle according to claim 7, in, The first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs are configured to engage with corresponding rails, and wherein the rails are oriented along a longitudinal axis of the chassis to allow the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs to translate along a length of the chassis.

10. The transport vehicle according to claim 7, in, The first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs are configured to engage with corresponding rails, and wherein the rails are oriented along a transverse axis of the chassis to allow the first pair of legs and / or the second pair of legs to translate across a width of the chassis.

11. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The adjustment mechanism is configured to allow the clamping device to rotate relative to the chassis about a first horizontal axis and a second horizontal axis, wherein the second horizontal axis is perpendicular to the first horizontal axis.

12. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The adjustment mechanism includes a swing frame configured to allow the clamping device to rotate about the first horizontal axis or the second horizontal axis.

13. The transport vehicle according to claim 11 or 12, in, The adjustment mechanism includes a plurality of linear actuators, optionally including a hexapod of linear actuators, configured to allow vertical translation of the clamping device relative to the chassis and to allow rotation of the clamping device relative to the chassis about the first horizontal axis and the second horizontal axis.

14. The transport vehicle according to claim 13, in, Each of the linear actuators is oriented at an angle less than 45 degrees relative to a horizontal plane.

15. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The clamping device is configured to engage the wind turbine blade across a chord-wise portion of the wind turbine blade, and preferably, wherein the clamping device comprises a clamshell device having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a hinge connecting the upper portion and the lower portion so as to allow the upper portion to pivot relative to the lower portion between an open position and a closed position.

16. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The transport vehicle is a mobile trailer.

17. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims or claims 1 to 8 and claims 11 to 16, in, The clamping device is secured to the chassis to substantially prevent translation of the clamping device along a horizontal plane of the chassis.

18. The transport vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 15, in, The transport vehicle is an extendable trailer.

19. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The clamping device is optionally slidably mounted to the chassis via one or more rails to allow translation of the clamping device along a horizontal plane of the chassis.

20. A transport vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The clamping device is optionally slidably mounted to the chassis via one or more rails to allow the clamping device to translate along the length of the chassis.

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