Extraction system and method for extracting magnet elements

Abstract

Systems and extraction methods for extracting magnet elements. An extraction system is provided that is configured to extract one or more magnet elements (10) from a wind turbine generator component (200). The wind turbine generator component (200) comprises a plurality of rows (220) of magnet elements (10), each row (220) comprising one or more magnet elements (10). The extraction system (100) comprises an extraction device (20) comprising one or more actuators (25) and a support structure (50) supporting the wind turbine generator component (200) relative to the extraction device (20). The support structure (50) is configured to provide alignment between the extraction device (20) and the row (220) of wind turbine generator components (200). The system is configured to automatically extract one or more magnet elements (10) from a row (220) of wind turbine generator components (200) by means of an extraction device (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an extraction system and a corresponding method for extracting one or more magnetic elements from a wind turbine generator component. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the size and output power of wind turbines have increased significantly. Modern high-power wind turbines include direct-drive wind turbines, where the generator rotor is directly coupled to the wind turbine rotor without the need for an intermediate gearbox. Such direct-drive generators typically employ permanent magnets, which are usually mounted on the generator rotor. For example, a six-ton ​​permanent magnet could be used on the generator rotor in an exemplary wind turbine. Neodymium (Ne), iron (Fe), and boron (B) permanent magnets are used, for example, because they can generate high magnetic fields. However, manufacturing corresponding permanent magnets using heavy rare earth (HRE) materials presents challenges. For example, this material is affected by fluctuations in international HRE prices. Furthermore, the extraction and mining of these heavy rare earths have significant environmental impacts. These materials also have higher criticality. Therefore, manufacturing the corresponding permanent magnets for equipping the generator rotor involves several difficulties.

[0003] Document US2017222506A1 discloses a magnet holder system for picking up magnet components from a magnet holder. The magnet is then transferred to a wind turbine rotor and installed in a designated position.

[0004] Document US5691589A discloses a magnet assembly device for a high-horsepower motor, which uses a push rod to which a magnet element is bolted and a magnet box to which the magnetic force is shielded during installation.

[0005] Document EP2930824A1 discloses an external rotor structure that includes several rotor housing sections that allow multiple magnetic poles to be held.

[0006] Therefore, the inventors discovered the potential for reusing permanent magnet materials, particularly for recycling such materials at the end of the lifespan of the corresponding wind turbine generators. However, this recycling faces several difficulties, especially because the magnets generate significant forces due to their high permanent magnetic fields, making handling by personnel potentially dangerous. Furthermore, since generator rotors may have over 1000 magnets, their recycling is expensive and time-consuming. Additionally, removing the magnets from the generator rotor can be difficult due to the magnetic forces generated by the correspondingly strong permanent magnets. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, it is necessary to mitigate at least some of the aforementioned drawbacks. In particular, there is a need to provide a simple and effective way to reuse materials derived from permanent magnets supplied in wind turbine generators.

[0008] This requirement is satisfied by the features of the independent claim. The dependent claims describe embodiments of the invention.

[0009] According to embodiments of the present invention, an extraction system is provided, configured to extract one or more magnetic elements from a wind turbine generator component. The wind turbine generator component (also referred to herein as a generator component or component) includes multiple rows of magnetic elements. Each row includes one or more magnetic elements. The extraction system includes an extraction device comprising one or more actuators. A support structure is also provided that supports the wind turbine generator component relative to the extraction device. The support structure is configured to provide alignment between the extraction device and the rows of the wind turbine generator component. The system is configured to automatically extract one or more magnetic elements from the (aligned) rows of the wind turbine generator component by means of the extraction device.

[0010] This automated extraction from generator components allows for the rapid and efficient removal of magnetic elements without endangering personnel. Eliminating operator intervention during the process enhances safety. It also enables large-scale separation of magnetic elements from generator components and allows for the removal of large quantities of magnetic elements in a short time. This automated extraction further facilitates the transport of magnetic elements to subsequent processing, such as demagnetization. Furthermore, this automated extraction device overcomes the high forces required to separate magnetic elements from generator components. Moreover, the extracted magnetic elements are easier to demagnetize and subsequently disassemble compared to other conceivable recycling methods. Without extraction, this might be impossible, and demagnetization could take significantly longer and be less efficient.

[0011] Generator components may include, for example, multiple rows of magnetic elements distributed circumferentially around the component and extending in the axial direction of the component. For example, each row may include at least one, two, three or more magnetic elements, such as three to ten magnetic elements.

[0012] The extraction system can be configured to extract magnetic elements continuously and automatically from multiple rows of generator components.

[0013] The generator components can be, in particular, components already removed from the wind turbine generator, and the support structure can be located outside the wind turbine. This facilitates the extraction of multiple rows of magnet components. Preferably, the support structure can be positioned on the ground, for example, in an assembly hall, workshop, etc. Therefore, the extraction process can be carried out safely.

[0014] The generator components may be components of a wind turbine generator having a nominal rated power of at least 250 kW, preferably at least 500 kW, at least 1 MW, or at least 2 MW.

[0015] Generator components can be, for example, a generator rotor, but can also be a generator stator, particularly the generator rotor and generator stator of a direct-drive generator. A direct-drive generator can be configured to be mechanically connected to the wind turbine rotor of a wind turbine without the need for an intermediate gearbox.

[0016] The magnetic element may be or may include one or more permanent magnets. The magnetic element may include a housing and a block of permanent magnets disposed within the housing, the housing including, for example, a substrate and a cover. In addition to this housing, another type of packaging may be provided. Therefore, the magnetic element may be a magnetic module.

[0017] Preferably, the magnet element remains magnetized, and the system is configured to extract the magnetized magnet element from the generator component.

[0018] The extraction device can be configured to extract the magnetic elements one after another. Preferably, the extraction device is configured to extract all the magnetic elements in a row.

[0019] In one embodiment, the extraction system also includes a positioning device configured to automatically position the wind turbine generator components relative to the extraction device to provide alignment between the extraction device and the row. Therefore, this positioning device facilitates alignment, especially considering the potentially large weight of the generator components.

[0020] The positioning device can be separate from and distinct from the wind turbine generator. The positioning device can be configured to position the wind turbine generator components without using the wind turbine generator itself. Therefore, the disassembled wind turbine generator components can be aligned relative to the extraction device without using any parts of the wind turbine.

[0021] The positioning device may include, for example, an actuator configured to rotate and / or translate a wind turbine generator component relative to the extraction device. Preferably, the positioning device can rotate the generator component while the extraction device remains stationary. The positioning device may include a corresponding rotary actuator.

[0022] For example, the positioning device includes one or more motor-driven rollers disposed against the outer and / or inner periphery of the wind turbine component, and said motor-driven rollers are drivable to rotate the wind turbine component. For example, the number of motor-driven rollers can be adjusted according to the size / weight of the generator component, and can be, for example, between 1 and 6. The positioning device may also include one or more guide rollers disposed against the outer and / or inner periphery of the wind turbine component. Therefore, more stable positioning can be achieved. For example, between 3 and 10 rollers (e.g., 5) can be provided, some (preferably all) of which can be motor-driven.

[0023] The extraction system may also include a position detector configured to detect the relative position between the wind turbine generator components and the extraction device. The detected relative position can be used to provide alignment between the extraction device and the row. An encoder (such as a rotary encoder) may be used, for example, to detect the angular orientation of the generator components on the support. This position detector can provide feedback to the positioning device or can be used to provide feedforward control, thereby ensuring precise alignment of the row of generator components with the extraction device.

[0024] The generator components themselves may include bearings that rotatably support the generator components. Furthermore, the support structure may be equipped with bearings that provide corresponding rotatable support for the wind turbine components.

[0025] The support structure can have adjustable dimensions to accommodate wind turbine components of different sizes to be supported. For example, the dimensions can be adjustable such that the rollers are positioned against the wind turbine generator components. The support structure can also include telescopic shafts or beams configured to allow adjustment of the dimensions of the frame supporting the rollers.

[0026] Generator components can be quite large in size and weight. For example, they can have a diameter of more than three meters or even five meters, and a weight of more than one or five tons, such as several tons.

[0027] In an embodiment, one or more actuators in the extraction device are operable to extract one or more magnetic elements of a row by separating one or more corresponding magnetic elements from the magnetic mounting of the wind turbine generator component.

[0028] In the example, the extraction device can move one or more magnetic elements relative to a magnetic mount using an actuator to release one or more magnetic elements from the magnetic mount. The magnetic mount can be, for example, a slot (such as a T-slot) from which the magnetic elements are pushed out or pulled out.

[0029] In another example, the actuator can loosen the fastening members of the magnet mount to release one or more magnetic elements from the magnet mount. Screws or other fastening members can be disengaged, for example, by means of an actuator, which may include a robotic arm, etc. In another example, the magnet mount can be disassembled by the actuator to release one or more magnetic elements from the magnet mount. Therefore, the mount may be damaged, for example, by cutting elements of the mount using a corresponding actuator. It should be clear that the configuration of the extraction device is generally selected to correspond to the manner in which the magnetic elements are mounted to the generator component. Therefore, with such an extraction device, the magnetic elements can be removed from the generator component effectively and safely, and effective removal can be achieved for different configurations of the generator component.

[0030] In a specific example, the extraction device includes a pushing component and / or a pulling component, configured to push or pull one or more magnetic elements relative to the wind turbine component, respectively, to release one or more magnetic elements from a magnetic mounting of the wind turbine component. Specifically, the mounting may provide a form-fit connection from which the magnetic element can be released. This form-fit connection may be provided by a slot (such as a T-slot) into which the magnetic element is inserted, as described, for example, in document EP2555393A1. This allows for a reduction in the complexity of the extraction device and provides a simple method for removing magnetic elements from the generator component.

[0031] The extraction device may include a guide rail, and the push / pull assembly may include a bracket movable on the guide rail in a push or pull direction. An actuator of the extraction device may actuate the bracket. For example, the bracket may have opposing rollers that roll on the guide rail in the push / pull direction, i.e., in the extraction direction.

[0032] The actuator can be, for example, a hydraulic cylinder or a pneumatic cylinder; an electrically driven actuator is also conceivable. For example, such a cylinder can retract to pull the carriage in the extraction direction of the magnetic element, or such a cylinder can push the carriage in the extraction direction.

[0033] The pushing assembly may include an engaging member that engages the magnet element behind it in the pushing direction. An actuator may be configured to push or pull the engaging member, thereby causing the engaging member to push the magnet element in the pushing direction. The engaging member may, for example, be mounted on a bracket, and the actuator may push or pull the bracket to push or pull the engaging member in the extraction direction. Therefore, the engaging member may push the magnet element out in the extraction direction, thereby releasing the magnet element from the magnet mount.

[0034] The engaging member can be, for example, a hook or other element, such as a (sufficiently robust) protrusion that can be inserted behind the magnet element to be pushed. Preferably, the engaging member engages the last magnet element (viewed from the end of the magnet mount where the magnet element is extracted), such that all magnet elements in that row are simultaneously pushed by the pushing assembly. By progressively actuating the pushing assembly, the magnet elements can be released from the magnet mount one by one. The engaging member itself can be actuated to engage the magnet elements, for example, a corresponding hook or plate can be pushed out of the bracket to be positioned behind the magnet element, or it can passively engage the magnet elements, for example, driven by weight.

[0035] In an embodiment, the extraction device may include a repositioning device configured to change the orientation of the magnetic element extracted from the row. This is particularly advantageous when extracting the magnetic element in a vertical direction, allowing for further transport of the magnetic element once it has been reoriented in a horizontal direction. Specifically, the repositioning device can change the orientation by approximately 90°, for example, from vertical to horizontal. In an exemplary embodiment, the repositioning device may include a support plate on which the magnetic element is supported (e.g., the magnetic element can be pushed onto the support plate during extraction), and the actuator may include a mechanical linkage that rotates the support plate to the desired orientation. Other components of the extraction system can then further move the magnetic element.

[0036] In this regard, it should be emphasized again that due to the strength of the magnet, the corresponding magnetic components generate excessively high attractive forces, making them quite difficult to handle.

[0037] The extraction system may also include, for example, a moving device configured to move the extracted magnetic element onto a conveying device. This moving device may, for example, push or pull the magnetic element. For instance, the moving device may include a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder that pushes or pulls the magnetic element. For example, pulling may be achieved by using suction (e.g., a suction cup) to hold or grip the magnetic element and then pulling it by the retraction of a corresponding cylinder. The moving device may, for example, move a reoriented magnetic element from a support plate onto a conveying device. Depending on the configuration, the conveying device may be, for example, a horizontal, vertical, or inclined transport.

[0038] Wind turbine components can have a cylindrical shape, and a support structure can be configured to support the wind turbine component, wherein the cylindrical axis of the cylindrical shape is oriented in the vertical direction. An extraction device can extract one or more magnetic elements from the wind turbine component in the vertical direction (e.g., upward or downward). In this configuration, the system may, for example, include a vertical transporter to vertically convey the extracted magnetic elements to a desired location. Other configurations, including tilting transporters, are also contemplated. In other embodiments, the support structure can orient the wind turbine generator component such that the cylindrical axis is horizontal, and the extraction device can extract the magnetic elements in the horizontal direction.

[0039] The moving device can move the extracted magnetic components onto a vertical transporter, an inclined transporter, or a horizontal transporter.

[0040] Vertical conveyors can be, for example, circular conveyors with one or more carriers mounted to a chain or belt. Horizontal or inclined conveyors can similarly include multiple carriers mounted to a chain or belt, or can be simple belt conveyors.

[0041] The system may also include a conveying device configured to dock with a demagnetizing system for demagnetizing the magnetic elements and to convey one or more extracted magnetic elements toward the demagnetizing system. Providing such an interface enables efficient and continuous handling of the magnetic elements. This conveying system can also be a transporter, such as a conveyor belt, a chain conveyor with a carrier, a slat conveyor, etc., for example, a belt conveyor with two belts and an intermediate carrier.

[0042] In embodiments that provide both a vertical transporter and a conveying system that provides an interface for the demagnetizing system, the extraction system may further include a moving device configured to move one or more extracted magnetic elements from the vertical transporter to the conveying device. Similarly, the moving device may push or pull the magnetic elements in any of the manner described above.

[0043] The extraction system may also include a control system configured to control the extraction system. The control system may be configured to perform the following steps: (a) automatically aligning a row of wind turbine components with the extraction device (e.g., by controlling the positioning device based on the position indicated by a position detector); (b) automatically extracting one or more magnetic elements from the row (e.g., by controlling the extraction device individually; preferably, extracting all magnetic elements of the row); (c) automatically transporting one or more extracted magnetic elements toward another processing device (e.g., to a demagnetizing system, for example by controlling optional repositioning devices, moving devices, and conveying devices, such as vertical and / or horizontal / inclined conveyors), and repeating steps (a)-(c) for one or more rows (preferably all rows) of wind turbine generator components.

[0044] Therefore, the magnet component can be efficiently and quickly extracted from the generator component without human intervention, which significantly shortens the recovery time of such components and further improves personnel safety.

[0045] The extraction system can be a modular system provided as a module and configured to dock with a module including a demagnetizing system configured to demagnetize one or more magnetic elements. The extraction system is preferably configured to fit into a standard container (e.g., a 20, 24, or 40-foot container). The container can particularly be a transshipment container, such as one under ISO standard 668:2020 or similar standards. This facilitates the transport and setup of the extraction system.

[0046] According to another embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for extracting one or more magnetic elements from a wind turbine generator component. The wind turbine generator component includes multiple rows of magnetic elements, each row comprising one or more magnetic elements. The method includes: supporting the wind turbine generator component by a support structure relative to an extraction device including one or more actuators; aligning the rows of the wind turbine generator component with the extraction device; and automatically extracting one or more magnetic elements from the (aligned) rows of the wind turbine generator component by means of the extraction device. This method achieves advantages similar to those further outlined above.

[0047] In an embodiment, the method may further include: repeating the steps of aligning the rows and automatically extracting multiple rows of the wind turbine generator assembly, wherein the alignment is performed by a positioning device that automatically positions the rows of the wind turbine generator assembly to align with the extraction device. Positioning may, for example, include rotating the generator assembly until the rows of magnet elements are aligned with the extraction device.

[0048] This method may also include any steps described herein regarding the extraction of the system description. Furthermore, the control system may be configured to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0049] It should be understood that, without departing from the scope of the invention, the above-described features and those to be explained below can be used not only in the indicated combinations, but also in other combinations or individually. In particular, features of different aspects and embodiments of the invention can be combined with each other, unless otherwise stated. Attached Figure Description

[0050] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an extraction system according to an embodiment.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a magnet element according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an extraction system according to an embodiment.

[0054] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the extraction system, in which the wind turbine generator components are supported.

[0055] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the details of the extraction device in the extraction system.

[0056] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the details of the magnet component conveying device of the extraction system.

[0057] Figure 7 It is a diagram. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the modular design of the extraction system and its transport in a standard container.

[0058] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for extracting a magnetic element according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0059] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description of the embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting. It should be noted that the drawings are to be regarded as schematic representations only, and the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Rather, the representations of various elements have been chosen so that their function and general purpose will be obvious to those skilled in the art. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “including” should be interpreted as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including but not limited to”).

[0060] Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates an extraction system 100 according to an embodiment. The extraction system includes a support structure 50 supporting a wind turbine generator component 200, an extraction device 20 for extracting magnetic elements 10 from rows 220 of the component 200, and a conveying device 45 providing an interface 47 for a demagnetization system.

[0061] Component 200 has a cylindrical shape, with the cylindrical axis extending perpendicular to the drawing plane. Multiple rows 220 of magnets are arranged on the inner cylindrical surface, each row 220 including one, two, or more (e.g., between one and ten) magnetic elements. Component 200 has corresponding magnet mounts 210, which can be provided in the form of slots 215, which are T-shaped in this example. These T-slots receive magnetic elements 10. Figure 2The magnetic element is illustrated in more detail below. The magnetic element 10 includes a substrate 11 on which one or more permanent magnet blocks 15 are mounted by means of an adhesive 12. The magnet blocks 15 are covered by a cover 17, which may be made of, for example, a sheet of metal. Thus, the magnetic element 10 can be an encapsulated or contained permanent magnet. It should be understood that other types of encapsulation and housing are also possible, or the magnetic element 10 may simply consist of one or more permanent magnet blocks 15. Other types of magnet mounts 210 can then be employed. A form-fit connection can be provided between the substrate 11 and the T-slot 215, so that the magnetic element 10 can be mounted to the component 200 by inserting the magnetic element into the slot 215, as described, for example, in document EP2555393A1. However, this extraction system is not limited to this configuration, and it can extract the magnetic element from any type of magnet mount 210.

[0062] exist Figure 1 In the example, component 200 is a generator rotor (particularly an outer rotor) having rows 220 with magnetic elements 10 arranged on its inner cylindrical surface. The extraction system 100 can also be configured to extract magnets from other types of WT generator components, such as an inner rotor with magnets arranged on its outer cylindrical surface, a generator stator including permanent magnets, etc.

[0063] Extraction device 20 is configured to extract one or more magnetic elements from row 220 until all elements from that row have been extracted. System 100 is also configured to transfer the extracted magnetic elements to conveying device 45 for preferably transporting the extracted magnetic elements to another processing stage, such as a demagnetizing system. Conveying device 45 may include a transporter, such as a belt or chain transporter.

[0064] System 100 is configured to align row 220 of component 200 with extraction device 20 to allow extraction. For this purpose, the system may include one or more positioning devices 60. The positioning device may include a roller 61 driven by a motor 62. The roller 61 interacts with component 200 to rotate the component, thereby aligning row 220 with extraction device 20. Several such positioning devices 60 may be provided, for example, to rotate relatively large generator components, such as between one and ten, preferably between one and five. The roller 61 may interact with an inner cylindrical surface or an outer cylindrical surface. In other embodiments, the positioning device 60 may interact with the hub of component 200, or may include any other means suitable for aligning and, in particular, rotating component 200.

[0065] The support structure 50 may include component supports for the component 200, and may also include any other elements that provide necessary support for the component 200, such as guide rollers 66. The support structure 50 may support the component 200 in a vertically oriented manner, but it is equally possible to have a support component 200 such that the cylindrical axis is oriented in a horizontal direction.

[0066] The extraction system 100 may include a control system 150 comprising elements of the control system 100. The control system 150 controls the positioning device 60 to align the row 220 of the component 200 with the extraction device 20, and further controls the extraction device 20 to extract one or more magnetic components from the aligned row 220. The control system may also control the transfer of the extracted one or more magnetic components to a transport device 45, which may operate continuously or may also be controlled by the control system 150. The extraction system 100 may include a position detector 65 (such as an encoder) that provides position information to the control system 150. This facilitates alignment of the row 220 with the extraction system 20 by actuating the positioning device 60. Feedforward or feedback control based on position information may be employed by the control system 150.

[0067] Therefore, the control system 150 can enable the extraction system 100 to automatically extract magnetic elements from multiple rows 220 of component 200. Specifically, the control system 150 can operate the system 100 to continuously extract magnetic elements from component 20 until all magnetic elements have been extracted. Thus, rapid and automatic extraction of magnetic elements from component 200 can be achieved without human intervention. It should be understood that in this continuous operation, the conveying device 45 can operate intermittently; for example, the conveying device can wait until the magnetic elements are extracted and transferred to the conveying device before continuing conveying.

[0068] The control system 150 may include a processing unit 151 and a memory 152. The memory 152 may include control instructions executed by the processing unit 151. By executing the instructions by the processing unit 151, the control system 150 can cause the extraction system 100 to perform any of the methods described herein. The processing unit 151 may include a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a digital signal processor, etc. The memory 152 may include any type of volatile and non-volatile memory, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, etc. The control system 150 may include any other elements common to computing systems, such as corresponding input and output interfaces for receiving information and sending control signals, and a user interface.

[0069] Figure 3 Illustration Figure 1The above explanation also applies to a specific embodiment of the extraction system 100. The support structure 50 includes a component support 55 on which the component 200 is supported, such as... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. Component 200 may include a bearing 230 that facilitates rotation of component 200. If such a bearing is not available, a corresponding bearing may be provided by a support structure 50, for example, on component support 55. Support structure 50 also includes a frame 51, which may have an adjustable size. Frame 51 may include a telescopic shaft 51 that allows support structure 50 to adapt to the size of component 200. Positioning device 60 is mounted on frame 51, wherein roller 61 is configured to, as shown in the diagram. Figure 4 The component shown is positioned against component 200 when supported. A roller 61 driven by a corresponding motor rotates component 200 to align row 220 with extraction device 20.

[0070] exist Figure 5 More detailed illustrations Figure 3 The system 100 includes an extraction device 20. The extraction device includes a guide rail 21 on which a bracket 22 is movable in the extraction direction of the magnetic element. The bracket 22 may include wheels that run on corresponding tracks of the guide rail 21. The extraction device 20 also includes a coupling member 23, in... Figure 5 In this example, the engaging member is configured as a hook on the bracket 22. When viewed in the extraction direction, the engaging member 23 engages the last magnet of the row 220 behind the magnetic element. In this example, the extraction direction is vertically upward. There is a corresponding available space behind the last magnet of the row into which the engaging member 23 can be inserted. Engagement can be generated by the weight of the engaging member, for example, the weight of the hook can cause it to rotate below the magnetic element. The engagement can also be generated actively, for example by a pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric actuator.

[0071] Hydraulic cylinder 25 (see also) Figure 3 The bracket 22 is moved to the position where the engaging member 23 can engage the magnetic element. Thereafter, the hydraulic cylinder moves the bracket 22 upward, causing the uppermost magnetic element to be released from the magnetic mounting member 210, specifically pushing the magnetic element out of the slot 215. The hydraulic cylinder can travel the length of one magnetic element in the extraction direction, thereby releasing one magnetic element. This can continue one after another, releasing one magnetic element at a time.

[0072] The extraction system 100 is configurable to transfer the extracted and released magnetic element to the conveying devices 40, 45. In this example, the extraction device includes a repositioning device 27 comprising a support plate 28, a mechanical linkage 29, and a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 30. When the magnetic element is released from the magnetic mount 210, the magnetic element is firmly attached to the support plate 28. By actuating the cylinder 30 and thus the linkage 29, the support plate 28 changes its orientation from vertical to horizontal, and the magnetic element does the same. The moving device 31 then transfers the magnetic element to the conveying device 40. In this example, the moving device 31 includes a suction cup 32 for gripping or attaching to the magnetic element and a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 33. After gripping the magnetic element, the cylinder 33 retracts, thereby pulling the magnetic element onto the conveying device 40.

[0073] In this example, the conveying device 40 is a vertical circular transporter including a carrier 41, which may be supported and driven, for example, by two belts or chains running in corresponding guide rails, as is known in the art.

[0074] Figure 6 Further details of the conveying device 40 are shown, which includes a transport support 42 comprising a corresponding belt or chain. In this example, the extracted magnetic element is conveyed vertically downwards. An additional moving device 31 with a cylinder 33 transfers the magnetic element 10 from the conveying device 40 to another conveying device 45, which in this example is a transporter with a conveyor belt 46. The conveying device 45 provides an interface 47 to the next processing step, particularly to the demagnetizing system.

[0075] It should be understood that the above description is only an exemplary embodiment of the extraction system 100, and various modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the engaging member 23 may not be mounted on the bracket, but may simply slide in a groove in the guide rail 21, etc. If extraction occurs in the horizontal direction, the repositioning device 27 and the vertical conveying device 40 may not be necessary. Furthermore, in addition to using vertical and horizontal conveying devices 40, 45, only a single inclined conveying device may be used. The magnetic element can be pulled out instead of being pushed out of the row 220 by the engaging member 23. Similarly, Figure 5 The moving device 31 can push the magnetic element instead of pulling it. Furthermore, the hydraulic / pneumatic cylinders 25, 30, and 33 can be replaced by other actuators, such as electrically driven actuators.

[0076] The extraction system 100 can also extract magnetic elements from generator components having different types of magnet mounts 210. If the magnet is mounted by fastening members (such as screws, bolts, etc.), the extraction device 20 may, for example, include a robotic arm with actuators or other devices to loosen such fastening members and then transfer the magnetic element to a transport device. In even other embodiments, the elements of the magnet mount 210 may need to be removed by disassembly or destructive disassembly in order to release the magnetic element. Such disassembly can also be performed by a suitable configuration of the extraction device 20.

[0077] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment, which can be performed by... Figure 1 or Figure 3 The extraction system is executed. In step 81, the generator component 200 is mounted on the support structure 50 of the extraction system 100. In step 82, the row 220 of the generator component 200, including one or more magnetic elements 10, is aligned with the extraction device 20. After alignment, one or more magnetic elements 10, preferably all magnetic elements, are extracted from the row 220 (step 83). This can be achieved by engaging the hook of the carrier 22 and pulling the carrier 22 up by the hydraulic cylinder 25 to push the magnetic elements out of the slot 215. In step 84, the extracted magnetic elements can optionally be repositioned, for example, by reorientation using the device 27. Then in step 85, the extracted magnetic elements are moved to a conveying device, for example, by means of the moving device 31 to the conveying device 40. This is preferably performed for all magnetic elements extracted from that row.

[0078] In step 86, it is checked whether each row 220 of component 200 has been processed, that is, whether all magnets have been extracted from component 200. If not, the method continues in step 82, that is, aligning to the next row including the magnet element. If each row has been processed, the method ends in step 87.

[0079] Component 200 may include, for example, more than 250 rows, each row including more than five magnetic elements. Therefore, more than 1000 magnetic elements must be extracted. With the aid of extraction system 100, this extraction is significantly faster and more convenient, without posing a danger to the operator.

[0080] The extraction system 100 is preferably an extraction module configured to cooperate with a separate processing module (such as a demagnetizing module) for the extracted magnet. Figure 7As illustrated, the extraction system 100 is also preferably configured to fit into a standard container. The standard container 70 (e.g., a 20- or 40-foot container) occupies all components of the extraction system 100. Therefore, the extraction system 100 is easily transportable. For example, the extraction system can be transported to a port and installed where the dismantled wind turbine components from an offshore wind farm arrive. This minimizes the distance that large and heavy wind turbine generator components must be transported. In addition to reducing the amount of heavy rare earth material required to manufacture new magnets by extracting and recovering magnet components from generator components, energy consumption during transport is also saved.

[0081] The extraction system can achieve, for example, an extraction rate of 100 magnet modules per hour. In particular, automatic alignment via positioning devices and position detectors allows for accelerated extraction. Therefore, safe and large-scale extraction becomes possible.

[0082] While specific embodiments have been disclosed herein, various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments should be considered illustrative and non-limiting in all respects, and all changes within the meaning and equivalence of the appended claims are intended to be included therein.

Claims

1. An extraction system configured to extract one or more magnetic elements (10) from a wind turbine generator assembly (200), wherein the wind turbine generator assembly (200) includes multiple rows (220) of magnetic elements (10), each row (220) including one or more magnetic elements (10), wherein the extraction system (100) comprises: - Extraction device (20), which includes one or more actuators (25); and - A support structure (50) that supports a wind turbine generator component (200) relative to an extraction device (20), wherein the support structure (50) is configured to provide alignment between the extraction device (20) and the rows (220) of the wind turbine component (200); The system is configured to automatically extract one or more magnetic elements (10) from the row (220) of the wind turbine generator component (200) by means of an extraction device (20).

2. The extraction system of claim 1 further includes a positioning device (60) configured to automatically position the wind turbine generator component (200) relative to the extraction device (20) to provide alignment between the extraction device (20) and the row (220).

3. The extraction system according to claim 2, wherein, The positioning device (60) includes actuators (61, 62) configured to rotate and / or translate the wind turbine generator component (200) relative to the extraction device (20).

4. The extraction system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The positioning device (60) includes one or more motor-driven rollers (61) configured to rest against the outer and / or inner periphery of the wind turbine generator component (200) and can be driven to rotate the wind turbine generator component (200).

5. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, One or more actuators (25) of the extraction device (20) are operable to extract one or more magnetic elements (10) of a row (220) by separating the respective one or more magnetic elements (10) from the magnetic mount (210) of the wind turbine generator assembly (200).

6. The extraction system according to claim 5, wherein, The extraction device (20) is configured to separate the one or more magnetic elements (10) from the magnetic mounting member (210) by means of an actuator (25), by at least one of the following: - Move one or more magnetic elements (10) relative to the magnet mount (210) to release one or more magnetic elements (10) from the magnet mount (210); - Loosen the fastening members of the magnet mount to release one or more magnet elements (10) from the magnet mount; and - Disassemble the magnet mount to release one or more magnet elements (10) from the magnet mount.

7. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The extraction device (20) includes a pushing component and / or a pulling component, which are configured to push or pull the one or more magnetic elements (10) relative to the wind turbine generator component (200) to release the one or more magnetic elements (10) from the magnet mount (210) of the wind turbine generator component (200), particularly from the form-fit connection provided by the magnet mount (210).

8. The extraction system according to claim 7, wherein, The extraction device (20) includes a guide rail (21), and wherein the pushing component and / or pulling component includes a bracket (22) movable on the guide rail (21) in a pushing or pulling direction, wherein the actuator (25) of the extraction device (20) actuates the bracket (22).

9. The extraction system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The pushing assembly includes a joining member (23) that engages the magnet element (10) in the extraction direction behind the magnet element (10), and wherein the actuator (25) is configured to push or pull the joining member (23) so as to push the magnet element (10) in the extraction direction.

10. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The extraction device (20) further includes a repositioning device (27) configured to change the orientation of the magnetic element (10) extracted from the row.

11. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The extraction device (20) further includes a moving device (31) configured to move the extracted magnetic element (10) onto the conveying device (40, 45).

12. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The extraction device (20) extracts the one or more magnetic elements (10) from the wind turbine generator component (200) in a vertical direction, and the system further includes a vertical transporter (40) for transporting the extracted magnetic elements (10) in a vertical direction.

13. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The extraction system (100) also includes a conveying device (45) configured to dock with the demagnetizing system and transport one or more extracted magnetic elements (10) toward the demagnetizing system.

14. The extraction system according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a control system (150) configured to control the extraction system (100) to: (a) automatically align a row (220) of the wind turbine generator component (200) with the extraction device (20); (b) automatically extract one or more magnetic elements (10) from the row (220); (c) automatically transport one or more extracted magnetic elements (10) toward another processing device, and repeat steps (a)-(c) for one or more rows (220) of the wind turbine generator component (200), preferably all rows.

15. A method for extracting one or more magnetic elements (10) from a wind turbine generator component (200), wherein, A wind turbine generator component (200) includes multiple rows (220) of magnetic elements, each row (220) including one or more magnetic elements (10), wherein the method includes: - The wind turbine generator component (200) is supported by a support structure (50) relative to an extraction device (20) including one or more actuators (25). - Align the row (220) of the wind turbine generator component (200) with the extraction device (20); and - One or more magnetic elements (10) are automatically extracted from the row (220) of the wind turbine generator component (200) by means of the extraction device (20).

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