Blade carrier and handling system

Abstract

A blade carrier (10) for a wind turbine blade (11), comprising: a main support frame (12) for receiving at least one section of the wind turbine blade (11); and at least one auxiliary support frame (13) for receiving at least one securing means (14) for securing the wind turbine blade (11) to the blade carrier (10), where the main support frame (12) extends between a leading edge end (15) and a trailing edge end (16), where the leading edge end (15) is substantially parallel to the trailing edge end (16), and the trailing edge end (16) is substantially parallel to the leading edge end (15). The main support frame (12) comprises at least one connection interface (17) of a first type at the leading edge end (15) and / or at the trailing edge end, via which the auxiliary support frame (13) is reversibly connectable to the main support frame (12) in an operating position (I).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a blade carrier for wind turbine blades having the features of independent claim 1, a handling system for handling at least one wind turbine blade during transport having the features of independent claim 12, a transport vehicle having the features of independent claim 13, a method for operating the blade carrier having the features of independent claim 14, and a method for operating the handling system having the features of independent claim 16. Background Technology

[0002] Wind turbine blades are large structural components that are susceptible to transport damage due to their particularly lightweight construction. For example, transport damage can occur when wind turbine blades are transported from the manufacturing site to the operating site, where they are attached to the wind turbine nacelle.

[0003] To securely and structurally support the wind turbine blades during handling (e.g., during loading and / or unloading operations), they are placed on and / or attached to blade brackets. Blade brackets provide support for the wind turbine blades and serve as interfaces for handling the blades, for example, during loading and unloading operations.

[0004] Once the blades have been safely transported from the manufacturing site to the operating site and put into operation, the blade carriers used during the transport can be brought back to the manufacturing site for reuse on other blades.

[0005] Blade brackets are typically custom-designed for specific wind turbine blade types with particular lengths and airfoil profiles. Therefore, different types of blades can be used for different wind turbines, requiring different blade brackets. This results in a correspondingly high workload and material input, as well as high associated costs.

[0006] Furthermore, due to the overall protruding structure and / or complex connections during the assembly and / or disassembly of blade bracket components, the handling of known blade brackets sometimes requires a great deal of work and / or involves high transportation costs. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, the present invention is based on the objective of at least partially eliminating at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, the present invention is based on the objective of providing a blade carrier and a handling system that enables at least partial adjustment of the blade carrier to accommodate different wind turbine blade types, and / or simplifies the handling of the blade carrier during operation, particularly during the assembly and / or disassembly of the blade carrier and / or during the transport of the blade carrier.

[0008] This task is addressed by a blade bracket for a wind turbine blade, the blade bracket comprising: a main support frame for receiving at least one segment of a wind turbine blade; and at least one auxiliary support frame for receiving at least one fixing device for securing the wind turbine blade to the blade bracket, wherein the main support frame extends between a leading edge and a trailing edge, wherein the main support frame includes at least one first-type connection interface at the leading edge and / or trailing edge, wherein the auxiliary support frame can be reversibly connected to the main support frame in an operating position via the first-type connection interface.

[0009] In other words, the blade bracket according to the invention includes at least one main support frame and at least one auxiliary support frame. The main support frame is designed to receive at least one segment of a wind turbine blade for supporting the wind turbine blade, for example, during transport operations. Furthermore, the blade bracket includes at least one auxiliary support frame for receiving at least one securing device for securing the wind turbine blade to the blade bracket. The main support frame extends between a leading edge and a trailing edge and includes at least one first-type connection interface located at the leading edge and / or trailing edge of the main support frame, wherein the auxiliary support frame can be reversibly connected to the main support frame in an operating position or correspondingly in an operating state via the first-type connection interface.

[0010] The blade bracket according to the invention offers the advantage that at least one auxiliary support frame can be easily connected to and / or disconnected from the main support frame via a first-type connection interface. On the one hand, this modular approach allows for the modular use of different components of the blade bracket, such as the main support frame or the auxiliary support frame, to adapt the blade bracket to different wind turbine blade types. On the other hand, removing at least one auxiliary support frame from the main support frame allows for improved handling of the blade bracket during transport operations, particularly when the blade bracket is brought back from the operation site to the manufacturing site. This is because the space required for transporting the blade bracket can be reduced by at least partially disassembling the blade bracket. Furthermore, the blade bracket according to the invention allows for quick and easy connection between the main support frame and the auxiliary support frame, which allows for a significant reduction in the workload involved in handling the blade bracket at the manufacturing and / or operation sites. This modular approach also allows for the use of different auxiliary support frames along with a single main support frame, or different main support frames along with a single auxiliary support frame, and thus at least partially allows for the adaptation of the blade bracket depending on current needs (e.g., handling for different wind turbine blade types).

[0011] In the context of this invention, a blade bracket may be configured to include at least two or exactly two auxiliary support frames and / or a main support frame including at least one or exactly one first-type connection interface at the leading edge and at least one or exactly one first-type connection interface at the trailing edge. In other words, a blade bracket may be configured to include: a main support frame for receiving at least one segment of a wind turbine blade; and at least two or exactly two auxiliary support frames for receiving at least one fixing device for securing the wind turbine blade to the blade bracket, wherein the main support frame extends between the leading edge and the trailing edge, wherein the main support frame includes at least one or exactly one first-type connection interface at the leading edge, and wherein the main support frame includes at least one or exactly one first-type connection interface at the trailing edge, wherein one of the at least two or exactly two auxiliary support frames can be reversibly connected to the main support frame in an operating position via each of the first-type connection interfaces.

[0012] The leading edge of the main support frame should be understood as the end of the main support frame and / or blade bracket positioned at the leading edge of the wind turbine blade when the wind turbine blade is positioned on the blade bracket, particularly the main support frame. The trailing edge of the main support frame should be understood as the end of the main support frame and / or blade bracket positioned at the trailing edge of the wind turbine blade when the wind turbine blade is positioned on the blade bracket, particularly the main support frame. It can be configured such that when the wind turbine blade is positioned on the blade bracket, particularly the main support frame, the axis extending between the leading and trailing edges extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the wind turbine blade.

[0013] The operating position or corresponding operating state should be understood as the position and / or state of the auxiliary support frame and / or blade bracket, wherein the blade bracket is prepared to at least partially receive the wind turbine blade and / or is prepared to at least partially attach to the wind turbine blade. The transport position or corresponding transport state should be understood as the position and / or state of the auxiliary support frame and / or blade bracket, wherein the blade bracket is prepared to be transported, specifically transported back to the manufacturing location. In particular, the transport position or corresponding transport state refers to a position or state in which the wind turbine blade is not intended to be at least partially received by the blade bracket and / or in which the bracket is not intended to be at least partially attached to the wind turbine blade.

[0014] A reversible connection should be understood as a connection that can be established and released without damaging the relevant components. In other words, the components in question can be connected or disconnected more or less as expected, without any inherent functional and / or structural degradation of these components.

[0015] The wind turbine blade according to the present invention can be a split-type wind turbine blade. The wind turbine blade can be divided into at least two blade segments, one blade segment including a blade tip (tip segment) and another segment including a blade root (root segment). The blade can be divided into more than two segments and / or include one or more intermediate segments, the intermediate segments including blade sections between the tip segment and the root segment. In other words, when using a blade bracket, the blade bracket can be configured to be used in conjunction with blade segments rather than with the entire blade.

[0016] For example, at least one securing device may be a rope or belt, particularly a tension belt. At least one securing device may be at least partially made of a textile material. In particular, the material may be selected such that when the securing device is at least partially in contact with the wind turbine blade, damage to the wind turbine blade due to friction between the blade and the securing device is avoided.

[0017] Regarding the present invention, the main support frame may be configured to include at least one second-type connection interface, preferably located in a receiving section of the main support frame, via which the auxiliary support frame can be reversibly connected to the main support frame in a transport position. In other words, the main support frame may include at least one second-type connection interface in addition to at least one first-type connection interface, wherein the auxiliary support frame can be reversibly connected to the main support frame in an operating position via the first-type connection interface, and can be connected to the main support frame in a transport position via the second-type connection interface. Accordingly, it is possible to secure the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame in a space-saving manner during transport of the blade carrier, for example, from the operating location back to the manufacturing location. This allows for easier handling of the blade carrier during transport. For example, in the transport position, the auxiliary support frame may be at least partially inserted into the main support frame, preferably into a hollow section of the main support frame.

[0018] The receiving section of the main support frame should be understood as the section in which the wind turbine blade is at least partially received when the wind turbine blade is positioned on the blade carrier. In particular, this receiving section may be the section between the leading edge and the trailing edge of the main support frame.

[0019] The connection between the main support frame and at least one auxiliary support frame via a first type of connection interface and / or a second type of connection interface can be designed to prevent relative movement between the main support frame and the auxiliary support frame, particularly when the connection is fully established / is being fully established and / or during the process of relative movement.

[0020] In the context of this invention, at least one connection interface, preferably at least one first-type connection interface and / or at least one second-type connection interface, may be optionally provided, including at least one or exactly one hook pin, and at least one auxiliary support frame includes at least one or exactly one hook-shaped portion, wherein the hook-shaped portion forms a receptacle, wherein the hook pin can be at least partially received in the receptacle for connecting the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame in an operating position and / or a transport position. The use of the hook pin on the main support frame and the use of the hook-shaped portion on the auxiliary support frame allows for easy connection or at least pre-connection of the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame. By means of at least partial shape fit between the hook pin and the hook-shaped portion, a reliable pre-tightened position of the auxiliary support frame can be achieved, thereby easily and reliably reaching the final tightened position (operating position and / or transport position) of the auxiliary support frame from this pre-tightened position.

[0021] At least one hook can be configured to protrude at least partially from a side wall of the main support frame, wherein, preferably, when the auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame via a first-type connection interface, the side wall at least partially predefines or defines the positioning of the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame. Preferably, at least one hook protrudes toward the interior of the main support frame. Preferably, when the auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame via the first-type connection interface, the positioning of the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame can be at least partially defined or predetermined by at least two or exactly two side walls of the main support frame. Therefore, incorrect positioning of the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame can be effectively avoided. At least one hook can be configured to extend between the two side walls. Hooks extending continuously between the side walls of the main support frame allow for structural reinforcement of the main support frame in the region of the first-type connection interface, better load distribution during blade bracket operation, and easier positioning or pre-positioning of the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame.

[0022] Alternatively, at least one hook pin can be designed as an integrated part of the main support frame. Preferably, at least one hook pin can be physically attached to the main support frame and / or form an integral part with the main support frame. Accordingly, the structural integrity of the blade bracket can be improved.

[0023] At least one hook-shaped portion may be formed in the sidewall of the auxiliary support frame. Alternatively, at least one auxiliary support frame may include at least a pair of hook-shaped portions, wherein the pair comprises at least two or exactly two hook-shaped portions formed in opposite sidewalls of the auxiliary support frame, each of the hook-shaped portions forming a recess. Preferably, the hook-shaped portions in the pair are positioned at the same or substantially the same location along the longitudinal extension of the auxiliary support frame. Therefore, when the auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame via a first and / or second type of connection interface, the same hook pin or at least related hook pin defining the same operating position is at least partially introduced into the hook-shaped portions of the pair. By using a pair of hook-shaped portions, better load distribution between the main support frame and the auxiliary support frame can be achieved during operation.

[0024] At least one auxiliary support frame may be configured to include at least two pairs of hook-shaped portions, each of which forms a socket, wherein each of these hook-shaped portions allows the auxiliary support frame to be connected to the main support frame in a specific operating position. In other words, multiple pairs of hook-shaped portions may be provided along the longitudinal extension of the auxiliary support frame, wherein each of the hook-shaped portions can be used to connect the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame via a first type of connection interface and / or a second type of connection interface. Providing multiple pairs of hook-shaped portions allows for greater flexibility of the blade bracket, as the auxiliary support frame can be connected to the main support frame in multiple operating and / or transport positions. Accordingly, the blade bracket may be at least partially adapted for use with different wind turbine blade types.

[0025] Regarding the present invention, it is conceivable that at least one auxiliary support frame can be pivotally connected to the main support frame by receiving at least one hook pin in at least one hook-shaped portion (preferably an insertion hole formed by said hook-shaped portion), wherein, preferably, the pivot axis is formed by the central axis of the hook pin. At least one hook pin can be configured to have at least a circular cross-section, and at least one hook-shaped portion is designed at least partially to be complementary to said circular cross-section, such that the auxiliary support frame can be hinged to the main support frame by introducing the hook pin into the hook-shaped portion. In this way, on the one hand, pre-positioning or at least partial pre-fastening of the auxiliary support frame on the main support frame can be achieved, and on the other hand, the auxiliary support frame can subsequently be brought into its final fastened position (transport position or operating position) by simply pivoting the auxiliary support frame about the hook pin relative to the main support frame, which enables rapid and easy assembly (and disassembly) of the blade carrier.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, at least one connection interface, preferably at least one first-type connection interface and / or at least one second-type connection interface, may be provided, including at least one first-type recess in the main support frame, wherein at least one auxiliary support frame includes at least one second-type recess, wherein the first-type recess and the second-type recess can at least partially cover each other, and wherein the blade bracket includes at least one locking device, wherein the locking device can be arranged to at least partially extend through the first-type recess and the second-type recess for connecting the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame in an operating position and / or a transport position. Preferably, the recess can be used in conjunction with at least one hook pin of the main support frame and at least one hook-shaped portion of the auxiliary support frame, such that, preferably when at least one hook pin is introduced into the hook-shaped portion, coverage between at least one first-type recess and at least one second-type recess can be achieved by pivoting the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame. In other words, the auxiliary support frame can be hinged to the main support frame using at least one hook pin and at least one hook-shaped portion. Subsequently, the auxiliary support frame can be pivoted such that at least one first-type recess and at least one second-type recess at least partially cover each other. Subsequently, by at least partially introducing at least one locking device into the first type of recess and the second type of recess, the auxiliary support frame can be secured in its final position (transport position or operating position). This enables quick and easy assembly (and disassembly) of the blade bracket.

[0027] At least one first-type notch may be provided in the sidewall of the main support frame, wherein, preferably, when the auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame via a first-type connection interface, the sidewall at least partially predefines or defines the positioning of the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame. Additionally or alternatively, at least the second-type notch may be formed in the sidewall of the auxiliary support frame.

[0028] It can also be configured as at least one connection interface, preferably at least one first-type connection interface and / or at least one second-type connection interface, including at least a pair of first-type recesses, wherein the pair of first-type recesses includes at least two or exactly two first-type recesses formed in opposite sidewalls of the main support frame. Preferably, the first-type recesses in the pair of first-type recesses are located at the same or substantially the same position along the longitudinal extension of the main support frame. Additionally or alternatively, at least one auxiliary support frame can be configured to include at least a pair of second-type recesses, wherein the pair of second-type recesses includes at least two or exactly two second-type recesses formed in opposite sidewalls of the auxiliary support frame. Preferably, the second-type recesses in the pair of second-type recesses are located at the same or substantially the same position along the longitudinal extension of the second support frame.

[0029] By using a pair of notches to secure the auxiliary support frame to the main support frame, a more reliable and robust connection can be achieved, and better load distribution can be achieved between the main support frame and the auxiliary support frame during operation.

[0030] In the course of this invention, it is further advantageous that at least one connection interface, preferably at least one first-type connection interface and / or at least one second-type connection interface, includes a plurality of first-type recesses, wherein the recesses are arranged along a circular path. Preferably, the axis of rotation of this circular path is formed by the central axis of at least one hook pin. In other words, different recesses among the plurality of recesses may be located at different positions, while each of these recesses has the same distance from the central axis of the hook pin. This provides the advantage that when the auxiliary support frame is hinged to the hook pin, it can pivot about the hook pin, and at least one second-type recess of the auxiliary support frame can at least partially cover at least two or each of the plurality of first-type recesses arranged along the circular path. This allows the auxiliary support frame to be connected to the main support frame at different tilt angles with respect to the positioning of the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame. This also allows at least partial adjustment of the blade bracket to accommodate different wind turbine blade types and increases the application range of the blade bracket. The plurality of first-type recesses may be provided in the sidewall of the main support frame. The corresponding pattern of the first type of notch can be repeated in at least one opposite sidewall of the main support frame, such that each of the plurality of notches is part of a pair of notches.

[0031] In the course of this invention, it is further advantageous that at least one auxiliary support frame includes a plurality of second-type recesses, wherein the recesses are arranged along a circular path. Preferably, when the pin is at least partially received in the hook-shaped portion of the auxiliary support frame, and preferably when the auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame, the axis of rotation of the circular path is formed by the central axis of at least one pin. In other words, when the pin is at least partially received in the hook-shaped portion of the auxiliary support frame, and preferably when the auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame, different recesses of the plurality of recesses can be located at different positions, while each of these recesses has the same distance from the central axis of the pin. This provides the advantage that when the auxiliary support frame is hinged to the pin, it can pivot about the pin, and at least one first-type recess of the main support frame can at least partially cover at least two or each of the plurality of second-type recesses arranged along the circular path. This allows the auxiliary support frame to be connected to the main support frame at different tilt angles with respect to the positioning of the auxiliary support frame relative to the main support frame. This also allows for at least partial adjustment of the blade bracket to accommodate different wind turbine blade types, and increases the applicability of the blade bracket. The plurality of second-type recesses can be provided in the sidewalls of the auxiliary support frame. Corresponding patterns of the second-type recesses can be repeated in at least one opposite sidewall of the auxiliary support frame, such that each of the plurality of recesses is part of a pair of recesses.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, at least one locking device may be configured as a safety pin, comprising at least one fastening notch (cotter pin hole) and at least one cotter pin, wherein the cotter pin can be at least partially inserted into the fastening notch to secure the safety pin in its position. This ensures the secure positioning of the locking device and thus enables a robust and reliable connection between the main support frame and the auxiliary support frame.

[0033] Furthermore, at least one locking device may be configured to include a screw and / or a nut. In other words, the screw may be inserted into at least one first-type and / or second-type recess and secured with a nut. However, in the course of the invention, it has been shown to be advantageous to use safety pins as locking devices, as they allow for quick and easy assembly and disassembly of the blade bracket.

[0034] In this invention, at least one locking device can be configured to be at least partially secured to the main support frame by means of fastening devices such as chains or ropes. This prevents the locking device from being lost.

[0035] Regarding the invention, it is further conceivable that at least one connection interface, preferably at least one first-type connection interface and / or at least one second-type connection interface, includes at least one protrusion, wherein the protrusion is arranged close to at least one first-type recess such that when the safety pin is at least partially arranged in the recess, the safety pin can be secured in position by at least partially inserting a cotter pin into the fastening recess through the protrusion. A common application of the safety pin is to insert the safety pin into the recess, and on the side of the recess opposite to the side into which the safety pin is inserted, insert the cotter pin into the fastening recess. However, for this purpose, the recess must be accessible from both sides. However, this is not always the case. To still ensure that the safety pin securely engages in the recess, it may be advantageous to provide at least one protrusion close to the first-type recess. This protrusion includes at least one recess through which the cotter pin can be at least partially inserted into the fastening recess of the safety pin. This protrusion may extend from the main support frame in a direction from which the safety pin is at least partially inserted into the first-type recess. Therefore, the safety pin can be secured without requiring the first-type notch to be accessible from more than one side. At least one protrusion may be provided on the side wall of the main support frame. The term "access" should be understood in such a way as to enable the successful provision of the described function of inserting the cotter pin into the fastening notch of the safety pin through the notch in the protrusion. The required distance may vary depending on the length of the cotter pin used. However, it is recommended to keep the distance between the protrusion and the notch small to provide easier handling. For example, a distance of less than 1 cm or less than 5 mm has shown to be advantageous. At least one protrusion may at least partially surround at least one first-type notch.

[0036] In the context of this invention, the blade support, preferably a main support frame and / or at least one auxiliary support frame, may be further configured to include at least one resting pad, wherein the resting pad forms a resting surface for the wind turbine blade, and preferably, at least one resting pad is at least partially made of at least partially deformable material. In other words, the resting pad provides a local support point for the wind turbine blade, so that the blade can be securely and reliably rested on the support during transport operations. Using at least partially deformable material allows for better absorption of vibrations, etc., so that damage to the sensitive surfaces of the wind turbine blade can be prevented even during handling of the blade support with the wind turbine blade attached thereto. The at least partially deformable material may be plastic, and / or rubber, particularly synthetic rubber such as EPDM rubber.

[0037] Within the scope of this invention, it is conceivable that at least one mounting pad is movably mounted on the main support frame such that the mounting pad is at least partially pivotable relative to the main support frame. This provides the advantage that the one or more mounting pads can be adjusted in their orientation, which allows at least partial adjustment of the blade bracket to accommodate different wind turbine blade types.

[0038] With respect to the present invention, it may be advantageous when at least one auxiliary support frame includes at least one means for tensioning at least one fixing device in order to secure the wind turbine blade to the blade holder. In other words, by means of the tensioning means, at least one fixing device can be tensioned, and therefore, reliable securing of the wind turbine blade to the blade holder can be achieved in an easy and reliable manner. The at least one tensioning means may be configured as a belt tensioner or a chain tensioner.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally, at least one auxiliary support frame may be configured to include a guide element for at least partially guiding at least one fixing device to secure the wind turbine blade to the blade carrier. Preferably, the guide element includes at least one separating element to separate the area on the guide element for the first fixing device from the area on the guide element for the second fixing device. This provides the advantage that the fixing device is guided along a desired path and reliably held in the desired position. In particular, overlap of different fixing devices can be effectively avoided.

[0040] The system may be further configured such that at least one auxiliary support frame includes at least one lifting port for lifting the blade carrier, preferably by a crane. The lifting port may include at least one notch into which a hook from the crane may be at least partially inserted. The lifting port may be positioned to achieve a favorable load distribution within the blade carrier when it is lifted.

[0041] The main support frame may extend at least partially along its length in relation to the distance between the leading and trailing edges. This allows the main support frame to be adapted at least partially to different wind turbine blade types. In this context, the main support frame may be configured to include at least two main support frame elements, wherein a first main support frame element includes a leading edge and a second main support frame element includes a trailing edge. Furthermore, an adjustment mechanism may be included, by which the first and second main support frame elements can be fixed to each other at at least two different locations, each representing a different distance between the leading and trailing edges. For example, the mechanism may include elongated holes in the main support frame elements, which may be arranged at least partially overlapping and allow the elements to shift relative to each other. Fixing may be performed by means of at least one fastening device, such as screws and / or nuts.

[0042] The aforementioned task is also addressed by a handling system for transporting at least one wind turbine blade during transport, the handling system comprising at least one first-type blade bracket, wherein the first-type blade bracket is a blade bracket according to the invention, preferably according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the handling system comprises at least one second-type blade bracket, wherein the second-type blade bracket comprises a main support frame for receiving at least one segment of the wind turbine blade, wherein the main support frame of the second-type blade bracket comprises at least one second-type connection interface preferably located in the receiving segment of the main support frame, wherein, via the second-type connection interface, an auxiliary support frame of the first-type blade bracket can be reversibly connected to the main support frame of the second-type blade bracket at the transport position.

[0043] In other words, the second type of blade bracket can be a blade bracket that includes a main support element, but preferably does not include auxiliary support elements. This is because different blade brackets can be used for different sections of a wind turbine blade. For example, in the middle of a wind turbine, the span perpendicular to its longitudinal axis is larger compared to its tip or root. Therefore, particularly in this region, a blade bracket with a main support element and one or more auxiliary support elements can be used. In other blade regions, such as the tip or root, a smaller blade bracket can be used because the span perpendicular to its longitudinal axis is reduced. However, the second type of blade bracket can alternatively be a blade bracket according to the invention, particularly according to any one of claims 1-11.

[0044] Generally speaking, the features described regarding blade brackets are applicable to type 1 blade brackets and / or type 2 blade brackets.

[0045] Typically, all segments of a blade are transported simultaneously. Therefore, the different blade carriers used to transport the blades need to be assembled at the operating location and attached to the nacelle before being transported back to the manufacturing location. The handling system according to the invention allows for easy handling and packaging of the blade carriers, and thus allows for efficient and easy handling during transport operations. For example, one or more auxiliary support frames of a first-type blade carrier may be detached from the main support frame of the first-type blade carrier and connected at the transport location to the main support frame of a second-type blade carrier via at least one second-type connection interface of the second-type blade carrier. The second-type blade carrier, preferably the main support frame of the second-type blade carrier, may then be positioned within the first-type blade carrier, preferably on the main support frame of the first-type blade carrier, to create a compact and easily transportable transport unit. For example, the blade carriers may then be loaded into containers for transport to the manufacturing location.

[0046] The main support frame of the first type blade bracket and the main support frame of the second type blade bracket include at least one fixing notch. When the main support frame of the second type blade bracket is positioned on the main support frame of the first type blade bracket to preferably construct a transport unit, the fixing notch of the first type blade bracket and the fixing notch of the second type blade bracket can at least partially cover each other, so that at least one locking device can be at least partially introduced into the fixing notch to fix the main support frame of the second type blade bracket to the main support frame of the first type blade bracket.

[0047] The aforementioned task can also be addressed by a transport vehicle, wherein the transport vehicle preferably carries at least one blade bracket according to the invention, preferably according to any one of claims 1-11, in its loading area. The transport vehicle may preferably be a ship. However, the transport vehicle may also be designed as a truck, forklift, train, or aircraft.

[0048] The aforementioned task is also solved by a method for operating the blade bracket according to the invention, preferably according to any one of claims 1-11, the method comprising at least the following steps: - In the operating position, the auxiliary support frame is connected to the front edge of the main support frame via a first type of connection interface, and / or in the operating position, the auxiliary support frame is connected to the rear edge of the main support frame via a first type of connection interface.

[0049] This method provides the same advantages as those already described with respect to the blade bracket according to the invention.

[0050] In the context of this invention, the method may be further configured to include at least one of the following: - Place at least one section of the wind turbine blade on the blade support, such that the wind turbine blade is at least partially received by the main support frame. - The wind turbine blades are secured to the blade holder by means of at least one fixing device, wherein the fixing device is at least partially received by at least one auxiliary support frame. Loading the blade carrier and wind turbine blades onto the transport vehicle, and / or unloading the blade carrier and wind turbine blades from the transport vehicle, preferably includes, at least temporarily, using a crane or forklift. - Release at least one fixing device, - Remove the wind turbine blades from the blade holder. - Disconnect the auxiliary support frame from the front edge of the main support frame, and / or disconnect the auxiliary support frame from the rear edge of the main support frame. - At the transportation location, at least one auxiliary support frame is connected to the main support frame via a second type of connection interface.

[0051] The aforementioned task is also solved by a method for operating a handling system according to the present invention, preferably according to any one of claims 12-13, the method comprising at least the following steps: At the transport location, at least one auxiliary support frame of a first type blade bracket is connected to the main support frame of the second type blade bracket via a second type connection interface of a second type blade bracket. - A main support frame consisting of stacked at least two blade brackets (preferably first-type and second-type blade brackets) is used to form a transport unit. - Preferably, the transport units are loaded into and / or unloaded from the container using a crane or forklift. - Loading transport units and / or containers onto and / or unloading transport units and / or containers from the transport vehicle. - Disassemble at least one transport unit by unstacking at least two main support frames of at least two blade brackets (preferably first-type blade brackets and second-type blade brackets).

[0052] This method offers the same advantages as those already described with respect to blade brackets and / or handling systems. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Other advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which several embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this regard, the features mentioned in the claims and description may each be necessary for the invention individually or in any combination.

[0054] Therefore, the present invention is illustrated in the following figures: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket is shown. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket is shown. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket is shown. Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket is shown. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket is shown. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket is shown. Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the conveying system is shown. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the transport vehicle is shown. Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the method is shown, and Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the method is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a blade carrier 10 for a wind turbine blade 11 is shown. The blade carrier 10 includes a main support frame 12 for receiving at least one segment of the wind turbine blade 11. Furthermore, the blade carrier 10 includes two auxiliary support frames 13, each of which receives at least one fixing device 14 for securing the wind turbine blade 11 to the blade carrier 10. The main support frame extends between a leading edge end 15 and a trailing edge end 16, wherein the blade carrier 10 includes a first-type connection interface 17 at both the leading edge end 15 and the trailing edge end 16, via which the auxiliary support frames 13 can be reversibly connected to the main support frame 12 in an operating position I.

[0056] Figure 1 The blade bracket 10 is shown in a state where the auxiliary support frame 13 is separated from the main support frame 12. Figure 2 The blade bracket 10 is shown in the state where the auxiliary support frame 13 is connected to the main support frame 12 in the operating position I.

[0057] The blade bracket 10 according to the invention offers the advantage that the auxiliary support frame 13 can be easily connected to and / or disconnected from the main support frame 12 via a first-type connection interface 17. On the one hand, this modular approach allows for the modular use of different components of the blade bracket 10, such as the main support frame 12 or the auxiliary support frame 13, so that the blade bracket 10 can be adapted to different wind turbine blade types.

[0058] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the blade bracket 10 is shown to highlight the connection between the auxiliary support frame 13 and the main support frame 12 via a first-type connection interface 17. Therefore, Figure 3 The blade bracket 10 is shown in a state where the auxiliary support frame 13 is connected to the main support frame 12. For better overview, the main support frame 12 is shown in cross-sectional view.

[0059] according to Figure 3 The first type of connection interface 17 of the main support frame 12 includes a hook pin 20, and the auxiliary support frame 13 includes a hook-shaped portion 21 that forms a socket 22 in which the hook pin 20 can be received at least partially.

[0060] The hook pin 20 extends continuously between the two side walls 33 of the main support frame 12, which at least partially define or predetermine the positioning of the auxiliary support frame 13 relative to the main support frame 12 when the auxiliary support frame 13 is connected to the main support frame 12 via the first type connection interface 17. The hook-shaped portion 21 is formed in the side wall 33 of the auxiliary support frame.

[0061] By receiving the hook pin 20 at least partially in the hook-shaped portion 21, the auxiliary support frame 13 can be pivotally connected to the main support frame 12, wherein, preferably, the pivot axis R is formed by the central axis M of the hook pin 20. In this way, on the one hand, pre-positioning or at least partial pre-fastening of the auxiliary support frame 13 on the main support frame 12 can be achieved, and on the other hand, the auxiliary support frame 13 can be subsequently brought into its final fastened position by simply pivoting the auxiliary support frame 13 relative to the main support frame 12 about the hook pin 20, which enables quick and easy assembly (and disassembly) of the blade bracket 10.

[0062] Furthermore, the first type connection interface 17 includes at least one first type recess 23, and the auxiliary support frame 13 includes at least one second type recess 24, wherein the first type recess 23 and the second type recess 24 are at least partially covered, and wherein the blade bracket 10 includes at least one locking device 25, wherein the locking device 25 is arranged to extend at least partially through the first type recess 23 and the second type recess 24 for connecting the auxiliary support frame 13 to the main support frame 12.

[0063] The locking device 25 is designed as a safety pin, comprising at least one fastening recess (not explicitly shown) and at least one cotter pin (not explicitly shown), wherein the cotter pin can be at least partially inserted into the fastening recess to secure the safety pin in its position. Figure 1 or Figure 2 It can also be seen that at least one locking device 25 is secured to the main support frame by a fastening device 26 designed as a chain.

[0064] from Figure 3 Clearly, the hook-shaped portion 21 and the second type of recess 24 in the sidewall 33 of the auxiliary support frame 13 facing the observer are also formed in the sidewall 33 of the auxiliary support frame 13 facing away from the observer, and therefore, correspondingly, a pair of second type recesses 24 and a pair of hook-shaped portions 21 are formed in the sidewall 33 of the auxiliary support frame 13. This also relates to the first type of recess 23 of the main support frame 12 formed in the two sidewalls 33 of the main support frame 12, thus forming a pair of first type recesses 23 (see, for example, see...). Figure 1 and Figure 4 ).

[0065] Figure 1-4 The main support frame is further shown to include at least one resting pad 29, which forms a resting surface 30 for the wind turbine blade 11. At least one resting pad 29 is at least partially made of a at least partially deformable material. In other words, the resting pad 29 provides local support points for the wind turbine blade 11, enabling the blade to be securely and reliably rested on the blade carrier 10 during transport operations.

[0066] Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is further shown that at least one auxiliary support frame 13 includes at least one device 31 for tensioning at least one fixing device 14 in order to secure the wind turbine blade 11 to the blade bracket 10. In other words, by means of the tensioning device 31, at least one fixing device 14 can be tensioned, and thus, reliable securing of the wind turbine blade 11 to the blade bracket 10 can be achieved in an easy and reliable manner.

[0067] Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is also shown that at least one auxiliary support frame 13 includes a guide element 34 for at least partially guiding at least one fixing device 14 to secure the wind turbine blade 11 to the blade carrier 10, wherein, preferably, the guide element 34 includes at least one separating element 35 to separate the area on the guide element 34 for the first fixing device 14 from the area on the guide element 34 for the second fixing device 14. This provides the advantage that the fixing device 14 is guided along a desired path and reliably held in the desired position. In particular, overlap of different fixing devices 14 can be effectively avoided.

[0068] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A blade bracket 10 with a main support frame 12 is shown. The main support frame 12 includes at least one second-type connection interface 18 located in a receiving section 19 of the main support frame 12. An auxiliary support frame 13 can be reversibly connected to the main support frame 12 at transport position II via the second-type connection interface 18. This second-type connection interface includes... Figure 1-3 The first type of connection interface explained consists of essentially the same components. However, because these components are oriented in a different manner, the auxiliary support frame 13 can be connected to the main support frame 12 at transport position II.

[0069] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The blade bracket 10 shown is a second type blade bracket 10.2. However, the second type connection interface 18 can also be provided by a first type blade bracket 10.1, such as, for example... Figure 1-4 As shown in the image.

[0070] Figure 7 A handling system 50 for handling at least one wind turbine blade 11 during transport is shown. The handling system 50 includes a first type blade bracket 10.1 and a second type blade bracket 10.2.

[0071] from Figure 7 As can be seen, the auxiliary support frame 13 of the first type blade bracket 10.1 is separated from the first type blade bracket 10.1 and is attached to the second type blade bracket 10.2 at transport position II, as shown in the reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As stated above.

[0072] The second type of blade bracket 10.2 is then positioned on the first type of blade bracket 10.1 to form a compact transport unit.

[0073] Figure 7 Further illustration shows that the main support frame 12 of the first type blade bracket 10.1 and the main support frame 12 of the second type blade bracket 10.2 include at least one fixing recess 36, wherein, when the main support frame 12 of the second type blade bracket 10.2 is positioned on the main support frame 12 of the first type blade bracket to preferably construct a transport unit, the fixing recess 36 of the first type blade bracket 10.1 and the second type blade bracket 10.2 can at least partially cover each other. This allows at least a locking device 25 to be introduced into the fixing recess 36 at least partially to secure the main support frame 12 of the second type blade bracket 10.2 to the main support frame 12 of the first type blade bracket 10.1.

[0074] Figure 8 A transport vehicle 80 is shown, wherein the transport vehicle 80 carries at least one blade bracket 10 according to the invention in a loading area 81 of the transport vehicle 80. The transport vehicle is a ship.

[0075] Figure 9 A method 100 for operating the blade bracket 10 is shown, the method 100 comprising at least the following steps: - In operating position I, the auxiliary support frame 13 is connected 110 to the front edge 15 of the main support frame 12 via the first type connection interface 17, and / or in operating position I, the auxiliary support frame 13 is connected to the rear edge 16 of the main support frame 12 via the first type connection interface 17.

[0076] Figure 10 A method 200 for operating a conveying system 50 is shown, the method 200 comprising at least the following steps: - At transport position II, at least one auxiliary support frame 13 of the first type blade bracket 10.1 is connected 210 to the main support frame 12 of the second type blade bracket 10.2 via the second type connection interface 18 of the second type blade bracket 10.2. - Stack at least two blade brackets 10 of the main support frame 12 to form a transport unit. - Load the transport unit 230 into the container (preferably a cargo container), and / or unload the transport unit from the container. - Loading transport units and / or containers 240 onto transport vehicle 200, and / or unloading transport units and / or containers from transport vehicle 200. - Disassemble at least 250 transport units by unstacking at least two main support frames 12 of at least two blade brackets 10.

Claims

1. A blade support (10) for a wind turbine blade (11), comprising: The main support frame (12) is used to receive at least one section of the wind turbine blade (11); and at least one auxiliary support frame (13) for receiving at least one fixing device (14) for securing the wind turbine blade (11) to the blade bracket (10). The main support frame (12) extends between the front edge (15) and the rear edge (16). The main support frame (12) includes at least one first type connection interface (17) located at the front edge (15) and / or the rear edge. The auxiliary support frame (13) can be reversibly connected to the main support frame (12) in the operating position (I) via the first type of connection interface (17).

2. The blade bracket (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The main support frame (12) includes at least one second type connection interface (18), which is preferably located in the receiving section (19) of the main support frame (12), wherein the auxiliary support frame (13) can be reversibly connected to the main support frame (12) at the transport position (II) via the second type connection interface (18).

3. The blade bracket (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, At least one connection interface (17, 18) includes at least one hook pin (20), and at least one auxiliary support frame (13) includes a hook-shaped portion (21) forming a socket (22), wherein the hook pin (20) is at least partially received in the socket (22) for connecting the auxiliary support frame (13) to the main support frame (12) in the operating position (I) and / or the transport position (II).

4. The blade bracket (10) according to claim 3. Its features are, At least one auxiliary support frame (13) is pivotally connected to the main support frame (12) by receiving the hook pin (20) at least partially in the socket (22), wherein, preferably, the pivot axis (R) is formed by the central axis (M) of the hook pin (20).

5. The blade bracket (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, At least one connection interface (17, 18) includes at least one first type recess (23) in the main support frame (12), and wherein at least one auxiliary support frame (13) includes at least one second type recess (24), wherein the first type recess (23) and the second type recess (24) are capable of at least partially covering each other, and wherein the blade bracket (10) includes at least one locking device (25), wherein the locking device (25) is capable of being arranged to extend at least partially through the first type recess (23) and the second type recess (24) for connecting the auxiliary support frame (13) to the main support frame (12) in the operating position (I) and / or the transport position (II).

6. The blade bracket (10) according to claim 5. Its features are, At least one connection interface (17, 18) includes a plurality of first-type recesses (23), and / or at least one auxiliary support frame (13) includes a plurality of second-type recesses (24), wherein the recesses are arranged along a circular path.

7. The blade bracket (10) according to any one of claims 5-6. Its features are, At least one locking device (25) is a safety pin, the safety pin including at least one fastening recess and at least one cotter pin, wherein the cotter pin can be at least partially inserted into the fastening recess to secure the safety pin in its position.

8. The blade bracket (10) according to claim 7. Its features are, At least one connection interface (17, 18) includes at least one protrusion (28), wherein the protrusion (28) is arranged close to at least one first type recess (23) such that when the safety pin is at least partially arranged in the recess, the safety pin can be secured in position by at least partially inserting the cotter pin through the protrusion (28) into the fastening recess.

9. The blade bracket (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The blade bracket (10), preferably the main support frame (12), includes at least one rest pad (29), wherein the rest pad (29) forms a resting surface (30) for the wind turbine blade (11), wherein, preferably, at least one rest pad (29) is at least partially made of at least partially deformable material.

10. The blade bracket (10) according to claim 9. Its features are, At least one support pad (29) is movably mounted on the main support frame (12) such that the support pad (29) is at least partially pivotable relative to the main support frame (12).

11. The blade bracket (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, At least one auxiliary support frame (13) includes at least one device (31) for tensioning at least one fixing device (14) to secure the wind turbine blade (11) to the blade bracket (10), and / or at least one auxiliary support frame (13) includes at least one lifting port (32) for preferably lifting the blade bracket (10) by a crane.

12. A handling system (50) for handling at least one wind turbine blade (11) during transport, comprising at least one first-type blade bracket (10.1), wherein, The first type of blade bracket ( 10.1) A blade bracket (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport system includes at least one second type blade bracket (10.2), wherein the second type blade bracket (10.2) includes a main support frame (12) for receiving at least one section of the wind turbine blade (11), wherein the main support frame (12) of the second type blade bracket (10.2) includes at least one second type connection interface (18), the second type connection interface (18) preferably being located in the receiving section (19) of the main support frame (12), wherein, via the second type connection interface (18), an auxiliary support frame (13) of the first type blade bracket (10.1) can be reversibly connected to the main support frame (12) of the second type blade bracket (10.2) at a transport position (II).

13. Transport vehicles (80), of which, The transport vehicle (200) preferably carries at least one blade bracket (10) according to any one of claims 1-11 in the loading area (81) of the transport vehicle (80).

14. A method (100) for operating the blade bracket (10) according to any one of claims 1-11, comprising at least the following steps: - In the operating position (I), the auxiliary support frame (13) is connected (110) to the front edge (15) of the main support frame (12) via the first type connection interface (17), and / or in the operating position (I), the auxiliary support frame (13) is connected to the rear edge (16) of the main support frame (12) via the first type connection interface (17).

15. The method (100) according to claim 14. Its features are, Includes at least one of the following: - Place at least one section of the wind turbine blade on the blade holder (10) such that the wind turbine blade (11) is at least partially received by the main support frame (12). - The wind turbine blade (11) is connected to the blade bracket (10) by means of at least one fixing device (14), wherein the fixing device (14) is at least partially received by at least one auxiliary support frame (13). - Load the blade bracket (10) and the wind turbine blade (11) onto the transport vehicle (200), and / or unload the blade bracket (10) and the wind turbine blade (11) from the transport vehicle (200). - Release at least one fixing device (14). - Remove the wind turbine blade (11) from the blade holder (10). - Disconnect the auxiliary support frame (13) from the front edge (15) of the main support frame (12), and / or disconnect the auxiliary support frame (13) from the rear edge (16) of the main support frame (12). - At the transport location (II), at least one auxiliary support frame (13) is connected to the main support frame (12) via a second type of connection interface (18).

16. A method (200) for operating the handling system (50) according to claim 12, comprising at least the following steps: - At the transport location (II), at least one auxiliary support frame (13) of the first type blade bracket (10.1) is connected (210) to the main support frame (12) of the second type blade bracket (10.2) via the second type connection interface (18) of the second type blade bracket (10.2). - Stack (220) at least two blade brackets (10) of the main support frame (12) to form a transport unit. - Loading (230) the transport unit into a container, preferably a cargo container, and / or unloading the transport unit from the container, - Loading (240) the transport unit and / or the container onto the transport vehicle (200), and / or unloading the transport unit and / or the container from the transport vehicle (200), - Disassemble (250) at least one transport unit by unstacking at least two main support frames (12) of at least two blade brackets (10).

Images