Lifting device for overturning shear web of wind turbine blade

Abstract

A lifting device designed for turning over a shear web in a wind turbine blade. The device enables a shear web to be overturned from a horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation about a longitudinal axis extending through a center of gravity, the shear web including a web body positioned between two mounting flanges. The lifting device includes an elongate body having two attachment points for releasably engaging a securing device of the shear web proximate the mounting flange. The lifting device further includes a first repositioning mechanism and a second repositioning mechanism that allow for flexible adjustment of the distance between the fixture and the respective attachment point along the elongate body. This feature facilitates positioning the center of gravity of the shear web between the attachment points, thereby ensuring efficient lift and manipulation during assembly of the wind turbine blade.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a lifting device and a method of using the lifting device to flip a shear web into an upright position. Background Technology

[0002] Wind provides a clean and environmentally friendly energy source. A wind turbine typically consists of a tower, generator, gearbox, nacelle, and one or more rotor blades. Wind turbine blades capture the kinetic energy of the wind using the known airfoil principle. Modern wind turbines can have rotor blades exceeding 90 meters in length.

[0003] Wind turbine blades are typically manufactured by forming two shell sections or half-shells from multiple layers of woven fabric or fibers and resin. Fiber-reinforced polymer wind turbine blades are usually manufactured in molds, where the pressure and suction sides of the blade are separately fabricated by arranging fiberglass pads and / or other fiber reinforcement materials (such as carbon fiber) in each of the two mold sections. The two half-shells are typically glued together, with an adhesive applied to the inner surface of the lower half-blade, upon which the upper half-blade descends. Modern wind turbine blades are typically relatively thick at the root tip and taper towards the tip. The same applies to the shear web. Furthermore, modern wind turbine blades often extend along a curvature to position the tip of the unloaded blade further away from the tower than the root. Such blades are often known as pre-bent blades. Therefore, the shear web also extends along the curvature from the relatively thick root section to the relatively thin tip section.

[0004] The spar cap or main laminate is placed or integrated within the half-shell and can be combined with the shear web or spar column to form a structural support component. The spar cap or main laminate can be attached to or integrated within the inner sides of the suction and pressure half-shells of the shell. Typically, the shear web is pre-molded in a separate mold, then lifted, flipped upright, and moved above the blade mold. Thus, typically, the shear web is bonded to the inner surface of the lower blade half by means of upper and lower mounting flanges arranged perpendicular to the web body and forming opposite edges, followed by bonding the upper blade half. An adhesive such as epoxy resin is applied along these mounting flanges to bond the shear web to the corresponding inner surface of the half-shell.

[0005] However, this manufacturing method presents considerable challenges, particularly in lifting and flipping the shear web. The relatively flexible shear web along its chordal direction requires specialized lifting equipment for manipulation. Without proper support along a significant portion of its length, the shear web tends to bend when lifted from its flat position on the mold. Subsequently, the shear web needs to be placed on specialized flipping equipment, often necessitating the removal of the lifting equipment. Flipping the shear web upright frequently results in deformation and twisting, posing a safety hazard to nearby operators and a risk of damage to the web. Once the shear web has been successfully flipped, a securing assembly is attached to transfer the shear web to the blade mold.

[0006] Furthermore, if a wind turbine blade has multiple shear webs with different shapes, dedicated equipment is required for each shear web, as each web may require clockwise or counterclockwise flipping operations. This increases the complexity and cost of blade manufacturing, as well as cycle time. Additionally, operators may be exposed to hazardous or uncomfortable postures that could lead to safety concerns. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Against this background, it can be considered an object of this disclosure to provide a lifting device for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped about the center of gravity of the shear web from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position.

[0008] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a method for flipping a shear web about its center of gravity from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position.

[0009] One or more of these objectives may be achieved by aspects of this disclosure as described below.

[0010] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to a lifting device for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis that generally extends through the center of gravity of the shear web, the shear web having a first mounting flange, an opposite second mounting flange, and a web body disposed between the first and second mounting flanges, the lifting device comprising: - A first attachment point, which is used to secure the cable to the first attachment point; - Preferably, a second attachment point is used to secure the cable to the second attachment point; - An elongated body that extends from the first attachment point and preferably extends to the second attachment point; - A first fixing device configured to releasably engage the shear web at or near the first mounting flange; and - A second fixing device, configured to releasably engage the shear web at or near the second mounting flange; The first and second fixing devices are fixed to the elongated body, and the lifting device includes a first repositioning device for allowing adjustment of the distance between the first fixing device and the first attachment point along the elongated body, and a second repositioning device for allowing adjustment of the distance between the second fixing device and the first attachment point along the elongated body, such that when held by the lifting device, the longitudinal axis of the shear web can be arranged at a specific or predetermined distance from the first attachment point along the elongated body. This specific distance may preferably correspond to a position between the first and second attachment points, for example, approximately at the midpoint between the first and second attachment points. Alternatively or additionally, the second repositioning device may allow adjustment of the distance between the second fixing device and the second attachment point along the elongated body.

[0011] In the context of this disclosure, the repositioning device can be considered as any engagement action distinct from that of the fixing device. Prior art fixing devices may include, for example, clamps that engage by moving a clamp head along the direction of the elongated body. However, when engaging the lifting device, the distance traveled by the clamp head is insufficient to ensure that the first attachment point is positioned at a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis. Instead, the distance between the first attachment point and the longitudinal axis varies as the lifting device is positioned along the longitudinal axis of the shear web. Such prior art lifting devices would not allow for a consistent predetermined distance at both the first position along the longitudinal axis of the shear web and a second position spaced apart from it. The inventors have discovered that, for wind turbine blades, the lifting device according to the first aspect offers significant advantages in allowing the shear web to be flipped from a horizontal position to a vertical position, and vice versa. By incorporating an elongated body with adjustable attachment points and fixing devices, the lifting device enables precise engagement of the mounting flange with the shear web at or near the mounting flange. Additionally, the lifting device features a repositioning mechanism that allows for fine-tuning of the distance between the fixing device and the attachment point along the slender body. This adjustability advantageously facilitates positioning the center of gravity of the shear web between the first and second attachment points, thereby ensuring stable and balanced lifting during the flipping process. The ability to effectively control and maintain the position of the shear web enhances the efficiency and safety of the blade manufacturing process.

[0012] The shear web can extend generally along the longitudinal axis from the root end to the tip end. In the context of this disclosure, the longitudinal axis coincides with the centroid of the shear web. The shear web can extend along the bending direction. For example, the centerline between the first and second sides can deviate from the longitudinal axis. This is especially true when wind turbine blades are increasingly pre-bent wind turbine blades.

[0013] Furthermore, the shear web may extend along the height axis between the first and second mounting flanges. The web body may include a first lateral side and a second lateral side, both extending from the root end of the shear web to the tip end of the shear web. The first mounting flange may be adapted to be oriented toward the suction side or pressure side of the wind turbine blade, and the second mounting flange may be adapted to be oriented toward the opposite side.

[0014] Alternatively or concurrently, the first securing device may include a first clamp, preferably configured to releasably engage the shear web at the first mounting flange. The second securing device may include a second clamp, preferably configured to releasably engage the shear web at the second mounting flange.

[0015] Clamps have been found to be an advantageous implementation of the fixing device for engaging shear webs at the mounting flange. By combining a first clamp and a second clamp, the lifting device ensures a secure and reliable connection between the fixing device at the corresponding mounting flange and the shear web. Specifically, the clamps are designed for releasably engaging the shear web, allowing for easy attachment and removal during lifting and tilting processes. This design feature enhances the efficiency and flexibility of the lifting device, facilitating rapid and controlled movement of the shear web when transitioning it from a horizontal to a vertical position. Using clamps as a fixing device enhances the overall reliability and safety of the lifting device, providing a robust solution for the manufacture and assembly of wind turbine blades. However, technicians may also consider using straps or mechanical fasteners such as screws or bolts for the fixing device.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, the first clamp and / or the second clamp may include jaws configured to releasably engage the web body adjacent to the respective mounting flange. The jaws may be configured to define a space for receiving the respective mounting flange when the shear web is held by the lifting device.

[0017] Such lifting devices offer several advantages over suction cups. First, the jaws of the clamps ensure a secure and precise fit around the mounting flanges of the shear web. The defined space allows for a tight fit, minimizing any potential movement or slippage during lifting and tilting. This secure engagement provides overall stability and control of the shear web, reducing the risk of damage or accidents during operation. Second, by releasably engaging the web body adjacent to the mounting flanges, the lifting device ensures balanced and distributed forces during lifting and tilting operations. The jaws firmly grip the web body, thus preventing any undue stress or deformation that could compromise the integrity of the shear web during tilting. This controlled grip and force distribution enhance the safety and reliability of the lifting device, minimizing the possibility of structural damage to the shear web.

[0018] Alternatively or concurrently, the first and / or second clamps may include a pultruded portion arranged to extend into the space and configured to engage the corresponding mounting flange when the shear web is held by the lifting device. This ensures that the mounting flange is positioned at a known location within the clamp(s) and thus facilitates proper positioning of the shear web onto the lifting device. Furthermore, the pultruded portion may be arranged adjacent to the corresponding mounting flange, opposite to the connection to the web body, for engagement. The clamp(s) may be arranged such that the space surrounds the portion of the mounting flange extending laterally from the web body. This ensures that undue stress is avoided on these relatively thin portions of the mounting flange to prevent potential damage.

[0019] Alternatively or concurrently, the lifting device may be generally beam-shaped. The elongated body may be a beam. Alternatively, the elongated body may be plate-shaped or include a frame, and may include one or more additional first fixing devices and one or more additional second fixing devices in addition to the first and second fixing devices. The additional fixing devices may be provided in the same manner as the mentioned first fixing devices.

[0020] Alternatively, the fixing device can be configured such that, when engaged, the lifting device and the shear web can be manipulated as a single entity. This improves efficiency, coordination, and safety in wind turbine blade assembly. Operators can easily manipulate the two components together, reducing the risk of misalignment or breakage. Therefore, this improved manipulation method accelerates the manufacturing process and reduces overall cycle time.

[0021] Alternatively or concurrently, the first fixing device may include a first suction cup configured to releasably engage with a first mounting flange adjacent to the shear web, and the second fixing device may include a second suction cup configured to releasably engage with a first mounting flange adjacent to the shear web.

[0022] Alternatively, the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device may each include a first sliding element and a second sliding element, which may be configured to slide along the elongated body toward and away from the first attachment point and the second attachment point, respectively.

[0023] When using multiple lifting devices, this allows the operator to easily adjust the distance between the fixing devices and attachment points along the slender body to place the center of gravity of the shear web in a consistent location. This also allows for precise customization, simplifies the setup process, and enhances versatility for adapting to different shear web configurations.

[0024] Alternatively, the first and second repositioning devices may each include a telescopic adjustment mechanism, a threaded component, and a hinge element. The repositioning device may be designed with a telescopic mechanism. This allows for an adjustable length of the elongated body and thus an adjustable distance between attachment points. This mechanism enables smooth extension or retraction of the elongated body, providing flexibility to adapt to changes in shear web size or operational needs. The operator can easily set the desired length by sliding the telescopic section, ensuring precise positioning and efficient manipulation. Alternatively, the repositioning device may be implemented as a threaded component allowing for fine adjustments along the elongated body. By incorporating a threaded rod or helical mechanism, the operator can rotate the component to move the fixing device closer to or further away from the attachment point. This threaded adjustment feature provides increased control over the distance and makes precise positioning of the lifting device easy to achieve. The pitch of the threaded component can be selected to allow for coarser or finer adjustments. Implementing the repositioning device as a hinge element provides an alternative method for adjusting the distance between the fixing device and the attachment point. This hinge mechanism allows for rapid adjustment, enabling the operator to tilt or pivot the fasteners relative to the slender body to engage them with the shear web. This implementation offers the advantage of very quick adjustments.

[0025] Alternatively, the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device may each include a first locking element and a second locking element, such as a ratchet, rack and pinion, locking pin, or bolt, which are configured to selectively lock the positions of the first sliding element and the second sliding element, respectively.

[0026] Such a locking element allows for selective securing of a first and a second fixing device, which may also include a sliding element. This ensures stable positioning during lifting and tilting processes, thereby minimizing the risk of misalignment or interference. The locking element enhances usability by providing a convenient and efficient way to secure the sliding element in place, enabling rapid adjustment and reliable operation.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device may each include a first set of one or more holes distributed along the length of the elongated body and, preferably, a second set of one or more holes. For example, the first set of one or more holes may be adjacent to a first attachment point, and the second set of one or more holes may preferably be adjacent to a second attachment point. The first locking element may be configured to selectively attach a first fixing device along the elongated body using the first set of one or more holes. The second locking element may be configured to selectively attach a second fixing device along the elongated body using the second set of one or more holes.

[0028] These settings provide flexibility and precision in positioning the fixing device, which may also include a sliding element. The operator can select the appropriate hole or the appropriate position along the hole to ensure a secure engagement with the shear web, thereby allowing for customized alignment to ensure optimal positioning of the center of gravity along the slender body.

[0029] A second aspect of this disclosure relates to a lifting assembly for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis extending generally through the center of gravity of the shear web, the lifting assembly comprising: - A plurality of lifting devices according to the first aspect, wherein preferably, a first repositioning device and a second repositioning device of each lifting device allow adjustment of the distance from each of the fixing devices to the first attachment point, such that when the lifting devices are distributed and engaged along the longitudinal axis of the shear web, the longitudinal axis of the shear web is arranged at approximately the same predetermined distance from the first attachment point of each lifting device; and - Preferably, it is a lifting beam that includes a plurality of cables corresponding to the number of attachment points of a plurality of lifting devices, wherein each cable is attached to a dedicated attachment point and preferably one or more winches for selectively pulling the plurality of cables to allow lifting in a horizontal position and flipping the shear web to a vertical position.

[0030] Furthermore, the lifting assembly may further include a shear web. Multiple lifting devices may be releasably engaged with the shear web at or adjacent to a corresponding mounting flange.

[0031] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for flipping a shear web from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis that generally extends through the centroid of the shear web, the method comprising one or more of the following steps: - Preferably, the shear web is positioned in a generally horizontal position; - Provide a plurality of lifting devices according to the first aspect of the present disclosure or lifting components according to the second aspect of the present disclosure; - Distribute multiple lifting devices at corresponding positions along the longitudinal axis of the shear web; - For each lifting device, a first repositioning device and a second repositioning device are used to adjust the distance from each of the fixing elements to the first attachment point, and the fixing device is releasably engaged such that the longitudinal axis of the shear web is arranged at approximately the same predetermined distance from the first attachment point at each lifting device, and the longitudinal axis extends substantially through the center of gravity of the shear web; and - Preferably, the overturning torque is applied to the shear web via the first attachment point (and preferably the second attachment point) of each lifting device, so as to overturn the shear web approximately about the longitudinal axis from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position.

[0032] Additionally, the shear web can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise. For example, the step of applying the rotation torque may involve rotating the shear web clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0033] Accordingly, this method allows for both clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the shear web. This flexibility adapts to different wind turbine blade designs and operational requirements, enabling the method to be applied in a variety of applications. The method remains effective regardless of whether the rotation direction is clockwise or counterclockwise, thereby enhancing versatility and adaptability in the manufacturing process.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, the shear web may be mounted on one or more supports. Furthermore, preferably, before applying the overturning torque, the method may include the step of applying a lifting force to a first attachment point and a second attachment point of each lifting device to lift the shear web from the one or more supports.

[0035] Alternatively or concurrently, a torsional torque can be applied by attaching a cable to a first attachment point of each of a plurality of lifting devices, preferably a cable of the lifting beam of the lifting assembly. For example, the end of an elongated body opposite to the first attachment point can rest or be hinged to a surface. Thus, when the cable pulls on the first attachment point of each lifting device, a torsional torque is applied around said end. Alternatively, the cable can also be attached to a second attachment point of each of the plurality of lifting devices, preferably a cable of the lifting beam of the lifting assembly. This allows a lifting force to be applied by the cable attached to both the first and second attachment points.

[0036] Alternatively, preferably, the overturning torque can be applied by pulling the cable attached to the first attachment point more or less than pulling the cable attached to the second attachment point of the lifting device. For example, the cable attached to the second attachment point can be pulled while the cable attached to the first attachment point is kept taut. Therefore, the first attachment point will rise above the second attachment point and the lifting device will begin to overturn. Similarly, if the cable attached to the first attachment point is pulled while the cable attached to the second attachment point is kept taut, the lifting device will overturn in the opposite direction.

[0037] By employing such a cable attachment system, not only is controlled rotation of the shear web possible, but additional movement beyond rotation is also permitted. The cable attached to each attachment point of the lifting device provides flexibility for lifting the shear web from its support, rotating it, and even moving it to another location. This eliminates the need for separate lifting and rotating equipment, as the cable attachment system can fulfill multiple functions in a single operation. The versatility of this method enables efficient manipulation of the shear web throughout the manufacturing process. Significant time and cost savings are achieved by integrating lifting, rotating, and moving capabilities into a single cable attachment system. Eliminating additional equipment improves workflow and reduces manufacturing process complexity.

[0038] Alternatively or concurrently, the step of distributing multiple lifting devices may include arranging an elongated body above or below a shear web, and may include arranging fixing devices on the elongated body, for example, sliding a sliding element of the fixing device onto the elongated body.

[0039] The fourth aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing wind turbine blades, comprising the following steps: - Preferably, the shear web is molded in a shear web mold; - Preferably, the shear web is demolded from the shear web mold by arranging the shear web on one or more supports, so that the shear web is positioned in a generally horizontal position above the shear web mold. - Perform the method according to the third aspect of this disclosure; - Preferably, the assembly and fixing device is attached to the shear web in a generally vertical position; - Preferably, multiple lifting devices are released from the shear web to transfer the support of the shear web from the multiple lifting devices to the assembly and fixing equipment; and - Preferably, the assembly and fixing device with the shear web is lowered such that the mounting flange of the shear web is placed on a structural component in a wind turbine blade mold, which is separate from the shear web mold, such as a spar cap, wherein the adhesive previously arranged on the mounting flange bonds the shear web to the structural component.

[0040] Those skilled in the art will recognize that any one or more of the foregoing aspects and embodiments of this disclosure may be combined with any one or more of the other aspects and embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate one mode of carrying out the invention and should not be construed as limiting other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a wind turbine.

[0043] Figure 2 It is used for, for example Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the wind turbine blades of the wind turbine shown.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of two shear webs placed horizontally before being flipped.

[0045] Figure 4 It is a schematic top view of a single shear web having a plurality of lifting devices according to the present disclosure distributed along its longitudinal axis.

[0046] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view at line AA shows a lifting device releasably engaged at the mounting flange of the shear web, which rests on a support above the shear web mold.

[0047] Figures 6A to 6B These are used for, for example Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic perspective view and a side view of the clamp of the lifting device.

[0048] Figure 7 This is a schematic side view of the shear web plate installed in its vertical position onto the assembly fixture after being flipped by the lifting device of this disclosure.

[0049] Figure 8 This is a schematic side view of two shear webs on a structural component of a wind turbine blade section being lowered into a wind turbine blade mold in its vertical position via an assembly and fixing device. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following description of the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements, and therefore need not be described with respect to all drawings. Reference numerals with an apostrophe suffix (') indicate elements similar to those referred to without the apostrophe suffix.

[0051] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a conventional modern upwind wind turbine 2 based on the so-called "Danish concept," which has a tower 4, a nacelle 6, and a rotor with a generally horizontal rotor shaft (which may include a tilt angle of almost no degrees). The rotor includes a hub 8 and three blades 10 extending radially from the hub 8, each blade 10 having a blade root 16 closest to the hub and a blade tip 14 furthest from the hub 8.

[0052] Figure 2A schematic diagram of an exemplary wind turbine blade 10 is shown. The wind turbine blade 10 has the shape of a conventional wind turbine blade extending along the spanwise axis L between a root end 17 and a tip end 15, and includes a root region 30 closest to the hub, a profile or airfoil region 34, a tip region 36 furthest from the hub, and a transition region 32 between the root region 30 and the airfoil region 34. The blade 10 includes a leading edge 18 facing the direction of rotation of the blade 10 when the blade is mounted on the hub 8, and a trailing edge 20 facing the opposite direction to the leading edge 18.

[0053] Airfoil region 34 (also called profile region) has an ideal or near-ideal blade shape for generating lift; however, root region 30 has a generally circular or elliptical cross-section for structural considerations, which, for example, makes the mounting of blade 10 to the hub easier and safer. The diameter (or chord) of root region 30 may be constant along the entire root region 30. Transition region 32 has a transition profile that gradually changes from the circular or elliptical shape of root region 30 to the airfoil profile of airfoil region 34. The chord length of transition region 32 typically increases with increasing distance r from the hub. Airfoil region 34 has an airfoil profile with a chord extending between the leading edge 18 and trailing edge 20 of blade 10. The width of the chord decreases with increasing distance r from the hub. Shoulder 38 of blade 10 is defined as the location where blade 10 has its maximum chord length. Shoulder 38 is typically located at the boundary between transition region 32 and airfoil region 34.

[0054] It should be noted that the chords of different sections of the blade are usually not located in the same plane because the blade can be twisted and / or bent (i.e., pre-bent). Therefore, a chord plane with a corresponding twist and / or bending direction is provided to compensate for the most common case where the local velocity of the blade depends on the radius from the hub.

[0055] Structural components of the wind turbine blades include spars caps (also known as main laminates) that can be placed or integrated into the half-shells 24, 26 (see...). Figure 2 The spar cap is held and reinforced separately by including one or more shear webs. The shear webs are typically molded in separate shear web molds via a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process. Because the shear web is a long, flat piece with flanges, it is usually most economical to mold it in a horizontal position. [Go to...] Figure 3 Two shear webs 40, 40' are shown in a horizontal position, then flipped to their vertical position. Although not shown in the figure, the shear webs 40, 40' have been cured and can rest on supports above their respective shear web molds. Each of the shear webs 40, 40' includes a first mounting flange 46, 46', a opposite second mounting flange 48, 48', and a web body 44, 44' extending between the mounting flanges. (As can be seen from...) Figure 4 As seen, the shear web extends along the bending direction from the root ends 42, 42' to the tip ends 43, 43'. The centroids 45, 45' of the shear webs 40, 40' are schematically shown as being located on the outside of their first mounting flanges 46, 46'. Figure 4 A top view is provided to better illustrate the bending direction of a single shear web, but this also applies to another shear web. The shear web 40 extends along a longitudinal axis 41, which passes through the center of gravity 45 from the root end 42 to the tip end 43. The longitudinal axis 41 corresponds to an axis about which rotating the shear web minimizes the moment of inertia of the mass. Therefore, the shear web 40 must be rotated from its current horizontal position to a vertical position, as required in the inclusion of shear webs in finished wind turbine blades. For this purpose, multiple lifting devices 50 are distributed at different locations along the length of the shear web 40. The number of lifting devices 50 and the distance between adjacent lifting devices are determined to safely support and rotate the shear web 40. For example, the distance between shear webs may be an average of approximately 5 meters, corresponding to approximately 18 lifting devices for a 90-meter shear web. It is certain that a shorter distance between shear webs may be necessary in the heavier section, which is closer to the root end 42 than to the tip end 43.

[0056] Go to Figure 5 , its purpose is Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken at line AA shows the shear web 50 resting on a support 114 above the mold surface 112 of the shear web mold 110. The lifting devices 50 are positioned as follows. Each lifting device 50 includes an elongated body 52, which in the illustrated example has the form of a rod with a rectangular cross-section, but can be any suitable shape. The elongated body 52 is positioned between the shear web 50 and the shear web mold 110, but can also be positioned above the shear web. Each lifting device 50 includes a first fixing device 60 and a second fixing device 60', which are configured to form a geometry that varies along the length of the shear web 40 to form engaging mounting flanges 46, 48. The fixing devices are shown in more detail below. Figures 6A to 6B Up. Back to Figure 5The fixing devices 60 and 60' each include repositioning devices 70 and 70', and each repositioning device 70 and 70' includes sliding elements 72 and 72', which are hollow elements adapted to slide along the elongated body 52. ​​The fixing devices 60 and 60' then slide onto the elongated body 52 via the corresponding sliding elements 72 and 72'. The repositioning devices 70 and 70' further include a first set of holes 76 and a second set of holes 76' distributed along the length of the elongated body 52. ​​In principle, the holes can be provided along the entire length of the elongated body 52 to increase flexibility, or only along those sections deemed necessary for the specific implementation to save costs. The elongated body 52 extends from the first attachment point 54 to the second attachment point 56 for attaching the cable 104 thereto. With the elongated body 52 positioned at different locations along the length of the shear web, it is identified which holes 76, 76' allow the fasteners 60, 60' to engage the mounting flanges 46, 46' of the shear web 40 such that the longitudinal axis 41 of the shear web is positioned at a predetermined distance D from the first attachment point 54. Once identified, the sliding elements 72, 72' are slid into the identified holes, and locking elements 74, 74', in the form of pins in this example, are inserted to lock the fasteners 60, 60' in place. The remaining lifting devices 50 are also adjusted via repositioning devices 70, 70' to align the longitudinal axis 41 at approximately the same predetermined distance D from the first attachment point 54 within a sufficient tolerance range. Because of this and because the shear web 40 bends from the root end 42 to the tip end 43, the positions of the fasteners 60, 60' on the elongated body must be adapted to the specific positions of the lifting devices. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, the spacing between the fixing devices 60, 60' of the lifting device 50 is greatest near the root and gradually decreases towards the tip 43. Furthermore, due to the bending direction of the shear web 40, the mounting flanges 46, 48 are both on one side of the longitudinal axis 41 from these two mounting flanges (see, for example, the fifth to ninth lifting devices). Figure 4 (Counting from the root end 42) Shifted to both mounting flanges on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 41 (see...) Figure 4 (The two lifting devices closest to the tip 43). Therefore, holes 76, 76' are configured to accommodate mounting devices 60, 60' that can engage flanges 46, 48 at all locations along the length of the shear web 40. (Go to...) Figures 6A to 6B An embodiment of the fixing device 60 is shown in more detail. The fixing device includes two jaws 64 that are adapted to extend around the mounting flange of the shear web and engage the web body, such as Figure 5As is best seen in the diagram. Jaw 64 is hinged to allow the operator to open and close jaw 64. Once closed, jaw 64 defines a space 66 in which the mounting flange can be received (see diagram). Figure 5 The fixing device 60 further includes a pultruded portion 68 that extends into the space 66 and is adapted to engage the outward-facing side of the mounting flange received in the space 66. Once all the lifting devices are in place, the longitudinal axis 41 of the shear web 40 extends substantially parallel to the axis (not shown) extending through the first attachment points 54 of all engaged lifting devices 50, as... Figure 4 As best seen in the book. Return to Figure 5 The lifting beam 102 of the lifting assembly 100 is then positioned above the lifting device 50 and the shear web 40. A dedicated cable 104 extends from the winch 106 of the lifting beam 102 and extends to attachment points 54, 56 of each lifting device. In the illustrated example, the dedicated winch 106 and cable 104 are attached to a single attachment point, resulting in two winches 106 and two cables 104 for each lifting device 50 to increase controllability. However, other embodiments involve a single winch 106 for each lifting device 50. In any case, a lifting device (not shown) uses a lifting cable 108 to lift the lifting assembly 100, and the winch 106 pulls the cable 104 to lift the lifting device 50 so that the shear web is disengaged from the support 114 on the shear web mold 110. The lifting assembly 100 can also be used to lift the shear web 50 from its storage position. Once sufficient clearance has been achieved, the tilting operation can begin. Depending on whether a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation operation is desired, winch 106 pulls the cable 104 attached to the first attachment point 54 or the second attachment point 56. Cables 104 attached to other attachment points are held, pulled less, or preferably loosened. Loosening of other cables ensures that the longitudinal axis 41 remains substantially stationary when the shear web 40 is rotated.

[0057] Once the shear web 40 has been flipped to its vertical position, it is transferred to the assembly and fixing device 120, which has a plurality of retaining devices 122 that engage and hold the shear web 40 at the first mounting flange 46. Then, the retaining devices 60, 60' of each lifting device 50 are released and removed from the corresponding mounting flanges 46, 48 to achieve the following: Figure 7 The arrangement shown is shown.

[0058] like Figure 8As shown, the assembly and fixing device 120 holds the shear web 40 and another shear web 40', which is arranged in the same manner and held by another holding device 122' of the assembly and fixing device 120. The assembly and fixing device 120 is then lifted by the lifting device 140 above the wind turbine blade mold 130. The shear webs 40, 40' are then lowered until the adhesive previously applied to each of the second mounting flanges 48, 48' contacts the corresponding structural components 132, 132'. In this case, the structural components 132, 132' are spars integrated into the cured first half-shell 24. In an operation not shown here but well known to those skilled in the art, the cured second half-shell is then flipped onto the first half-shell 24 such that the adhesive previously applied to each of the first mounting flanges 46, 46' contacts the corresponding structural component of the second half-shell. Once the dividing lines between the half-shells are glued and completed to form the complete shell 13, and further final processing steps are completed, the wind turbine blade 10 is finished, as shown. Figure 2 As best seen in the world.

[0059] In the following section, exemplary embodiments are provided in the list of items: 1. A lifting device for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position approximately about a longitudinal axis extending approximately through the center of gravity of the shear web, the shear web having a first mounting flange, an opposite second mounting flange, and a web body disposed between the first and second mounting flanges, wherein the lifting device comprises: - A first attachment point, which is used to secure the cable to the first attachment point; - Preferably, a second attachment point is used to secure the cable to the second attachment point; - A slender body that extends from the first attachment point; - A first fixing device, fixed to an elongated body, the first fixing device being configured to releasably engage a shear-resistant web at or near a first mounting flange; and - A second fixing device, configured to releasably engage the shear web at or near the second mounting flange; The first fixing device and the second fixing device are fixed to the elongated body, and the lifting device includes a first repositioning device for allowing adjustment of the distance between the first fixing device and the first attachment point along the elongated body and a second repositioning device for allowing adjustment of the distance between the second fixing device and the first attachment point along the elongated body, such that when held by the lifting device, the longitudinal axis of the shear web can be arranged along the elongated body at a predetermined distance from the first attachment point.

[0060] According to the lifting device of Project 1, the first fixing device includes a first clamp, which is preferably configured to releasably engage a shear web at a first mounting flange, and / or the second fixing device includes a second clamp, which is preferably configured to releasably engage a shear web at a second mounting flange.

[0061] According to the lifting device of Project 2, the first clamp and / or the second clamp include jaws configured to releasably engage the web body adjacent to the respective mounting flange, wherein the jaws are configured to define a space for receiving the respective mounting flange when the shear web is held by the lifting device.

[0062] According to the lifting device of Project 3, the first clamp and / or the second clamp include a pultruded part arranged to extend into the space and configured to engage the corresponding mounting flange when the shear web is held by the lifting device.

[0063] According to the lifting device of any of the aforementioned projects, the slender main body is a beam.

[0064] According to the lifting device of any of the aforementioned projects, the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device respectively include a first sliding element and a second sliding element, the first sliding element and the second sliding element being configured to slide along the elongated body toward and away from the first attachment point and the second attachment point, respectively.

[0065] According to the lifting device of any of the aforementioned projects, the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device respectively include a first locking element and a second locking element, such as a locking pin or a bolt, and the first locking element and the second locking element are configured to selectively lock the positions of the first sliding element and the second sliding element, respectively.

[0066] According to the lifting device of Project 7, the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device respectively include a first group of one or more holes and preferably a second group of one or more holes distributed along the length of the elongated body, wherein the first locking element and the second locking element are configured to selectively attach the first fixing device and the second fixing device along the elongated body using the first group of one or more holes and the second group of one or more holes, respectively.

[0067] According to the lifting device of any of the aforementioned projects, wherein the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device are configured such that when the shear web is held by the lifting device at a first position along the longitudinal axis and at a second position along the longitudinal axis spaced apart from the first position, the longitudinal axis of the shear web can be arranged at a predetermined distance along the elongated body from the first attachment point.

[0068] A lifting assembly for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis extending generally through the center of gravity of the shear web. The lifting assembly includes: - A plurality of lifting devices according to any one of the foregoing items, wherein a first repositioning device and a second repositioning device of each lifting device allow adjustment of the distance from each of the fixing devices to a first attachment point, such that when the plurality of lifting devices are distributed and engaged along the longitudinal axis of the shear web, the longitudinal axis of the shear web is arranged at approximately the same predetermined distance from the first attachment point of each lifting device; and - A lifting beam comprising a plurality of cables corresponding to the number of attachment points of a plurality of lifting devices, wherein each cable is attached to a dedicated attachment point and preferably one or more winches for selectively pulling the plurality of cables to allow lifting in a horizontal position and flipping the shear web to a vertical position.

[0069] A method for flipping a shear web from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis that generally extends through the center of gravity of the shear web, comprising the following steps: - Position the shear web in a roughly horizontal position; - Provide multiple lifting devices according to any one of items 1 to 8 or lifting components according to item 9; - Distribute multiple lifting devices at corresponding positions along the longitudinal axis of the shear web; - For each lifting device, a first repositioning device and a second repositioning device are used to adjust the distance from each of the fixing elements to the first attachment point, and the fixing device is releasably engaged such that the longitudinal axis of the shear web is arranged at approximately the same predetermined distance from the first attachment point at each lifting device; and - A flipping torque is applied to the shear web via the first attachment point of each lifting device so as to flip the shear web approximately about the longitudinal axis from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position.

[0070] According to the method of Project 10, the shear web can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise.

[0071] According to the method of any one of items 10 to 11, wherein the shear web is disposed on one or more supports, and wherein, before applying the overturning torque, the method includes the step of applying a lifting force to a first attachment point and a second attachment point of each lifting device to lift the shear web from the one or more supports.

[0072] According to the method of any one of items 10 to 12, a reversing torque is applied by attaching a cable to a first attachment point of each of a plurality of lifting devices, the cable being preferably a cable of the lifting beam of the lifting assembly.

[0073] According to any one of Items 10 to 13, the step of distributing multiple lifting devices includes arranging an elongated body above or below a shear web and arranging a fixing device on the elongated body, for example, sliding a sliding element of the fixing device onto the elongated body.

[0074] A method for manufacturing wind turbine blades includes the following steps: - Molding the shear web in a shear web mold; - Preferably, the shear web is demolded from the shear web mold by arranging the shear web on one or more supports, so that the shear web is positioned in a generally horizontal position above the shear web mold. - Perform the method according to any one of items 10 to 14; - Attach the assembly and fixing equipment to the shear web in a generally vertical position; - Release multiple lifting devices from the shear web to transfer the support of the shear web from the multiple lifting devices to the assembly and fixing equipment; and - The assembly and fixing device with shear web is lowered so that the mounting flange of the shear web is placed on a structural component, such as a spar cap, in a wind turbine blade mold that is separate from the shear web mold.

[0075] Reference number list 2 wind turbines 4 towers 6 cabins 8 hubs 10 blades 13 shells 14 blade tips 15. Tip / End 16. Leaf base 17. Root tip 18. Predestined Fate 20 trailing edge 24 First Half Shell 26 Second Half Shell 30 Root region 32 Transition Zone 34. Airfoil area 36. Tip area 38 Shoulders 40 Shear web 41. Longitudinal axis 42. Root end 43. Tip / End 44 Web plate main body 45 Center of gravity 46 First mounting flange 48 Second mounting flange 40' Second shear web 42' Root end 43' tip end 44' Web plate main body 45' Center of Gravity 46' First mounting flange 48' Second mounting flange 50 Lifting Device 52 Slender body 54 First Attachment Point 56 Second Attachment Point 60 First fixing device 64 jaws 66 Space 68 Pultrusion Molding Section 60' Second fixing device 64' jaws 66' space 68' Pultrusion Section 70 First repositioning device 72 First sliding element 74 First locking element 76 The first group of one or more holes 70' Second repositioning device 72' Second sliding element 74' Second locking element 76' Second group of one or more holes D Predefined distance 100 Enhancement Components 102 Lifting Beam 104 cable 106 winch 108 lifting cables 110 Shear-resistant web mold 112 Mold Surface 114 Support components 120 Assembly and fixing equipment 122 Holding device 130 Wind turbine blade mold 132 Structural components 132' Structural Components 140 lifting device L spanwise axis

Claims

1. A lifting device for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position approximately about a longitudinal axis extending approximately through the center of gravity of the shear web, the shear web having a first mounting flange, an opposite second mounting flange, and a web body disposed between the first mounting flange and the second mounting flange, wherein, The lifting device includes: - A first attachment point, which is used to secure the cable to the first attachment point; - Preferably, a second attachment point is used to secure the cable to the second attachment point; - An elongated body that extends from the first attachment point; - A first fastening device, fixed to the elongated body, the first fastening device being configured to releasably engage the shear web at or near the first mounting flange; and - A second fixing device configured to releasably engage the shear web at or near the second mounting flange; The first and second fixing devices are fixed to the elongated body, and the lifting device includes a first repositioning device for allowing adjustment of the distance between the first fixing device and the first attachment point along the elongated body and a second repositioning device for allowing adjustment of the distance between the second fixing device and the first attachment point along the elongated body, such that when held by the lifting device at a first position along the longitudinal axis and when held by the lifting device at a second position along the longitudinal axis spaced apart from the first position, the longitudinal axis of the shear web can be arranged along the elongated body at a predetermined distance from the first attachment point.

2. The lifting device according to claim 1, wherein, The first fixing device includes a first clamp, which is preferably configured to releasably engage the shear web at the first mounting flange, and / or wherein the second fixing device includes a second clamp, which is preferably configured to releasably engage the shear web at the second mounting flange.

3. The lifting device according to claim 2, wherein, The first clamp and / or the second clamp include jaws configured to releasably engage the web body adjacent to the respective mounting flange, wherein the jaws are configured to define a space for receiving the respective mounting flange when the shear web is held by the lifting device.

4. The lifting device according to claim 3, wherein, The first clamp and / or the second clamp includes a pultruded portion arranged to extend into the space and configured to engage the corresponding mounting flange when the shear web is held by the lifting device.

5. The lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The slender main body is a beam.

6. The lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first repositioning device and the second repositioning device each include a first sliding element and a second sliding element, which are configured to slide along the elongated body toward and away from the first attachment point and the second attachment point, respectively.

7. The lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first repositioning device and the second repositioning device each include a first locking element and a second locking element, such as a locking pin or a bolt, and are configured to selectively lock the positions of the first sliding element and the second sliding element, respectively.

8. The lifting device according to claim 7, wherein, The first repositioning device and the second repositioning device each include a first set of one or more holes and preferably a second set of one or more holes distributed along the length of the elongated body, wherein the first locking element and the second locking element are configured to selectively attach the first fixing device and the second fixing device along the elongated body using the first set of one or more holes and the second set of one or more holes, respectively.

9. A lifting assembly for releasably engaging a shear web for a wind turbine blade to allow the shear web to be flipped from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis extending generally through the center of gravity of the shear web, the lifting assembly comprising: - A plurality of lifting devices according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device of each lifting device allow adjustment of the distance from each of the fixing devices to the first attachment point, such that when the plurality of lifting devices are distributed and engaged along the longitudinal axis of the shear web, the longitudinal axis of the shear web is arranged at approximately the same predetermined distance from the first attachment point of each lifting device; and - A lifting beam comprising a plurality of cables corresponding to the number of attachment points of the plurality of lifting devices, wherein each cable is attached to a dedicated attachment point and preferably to one or more winches for selectively pulling the plurality of cables to allow lifting in the horizontal position and flipping the shear web to the vertical position.

10. The lifting component according to claim 9, wherein, The shear web is held at the first position by the first lifting device among the plurality of lifting devices and at the second position by the second lifting device among the plurality of lifting devices.

11. A method for flipping a shear web from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position about a longitudinal axis that generally extends through the center of gravity of the shear web, comprising the steps of: - The shear web is positioned in the generally horizontal position; - Provide a plurality of lifting devices according to any one of claims 1 to 8 or lifting assemblies according to any one of claims 9 to 10; - Distribute the plurality of lifting devices at corresponding positions along the longitudinal axis of the shear web; - For each lifting device, the distance from each of the fixing elements to the first attachment point is adjusted using the first repositioning device and the second repositioning device, and the fixing device is releasably engaged such that the longitudinal axis of the shear web is arranged at approximately the same predetermined distance from the first attachment point at each lifting device; as well as - A flipping torque is applied to the shear web via the first attachment point of each lifting device to flip the shear web approximately about the longitudinal axis from the approximately horizontal position to the approximately vertical position.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The shear web can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise.

13. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein, The shear web is disposed on one or more supports, and wherein, prior to applying the overturning torque, the method includes the step of applying a lifting force to the first attachment point and the second attachment point of each lifting device to lift the shear web from the one or more supports.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The overturning torque is applied by attaching a cable to the first attachment point of each of the plurality of lifting devices, the cable preferably being the cable of the lifting beam of the lifting assembly.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein, The step of distributing the plurality of lifting devices includes arranging the elongated body above or below the shear web and arranging the fixing device on the elongated body, for example, sliding the sliding element of the fixing device onto the elongated body.

16. A method for manufacturing wind turbine blades, comprising the following steps: - Molding the shear web in a shear web mold; - Preferably, the shear web is demolded from the shear web mold by arranging the shear web on one or more supports, so that the shear web is placed in a generally horizontal position above the shear web mold; - Perform the method according to any one of claims 11 to 15; - Attach the assembly and fixing device to the shear web in the generally vertical position; - Release the plurality of lifting devices from the shear web so as to transfer the support of the shear web from the plurality of lifting devices to the assembly and fixing device; as well as - The assembly and fixing device with the shear web is lowered such that the mounting flange of the shear web is placed on a structural component in a wind turbine blade mold, such as a spar cap, which is separate from the shear web mold.

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