Mounting device, mounting system and mounting method for vortex generator

Abstract

The invention discloses a mounting device, a mounting system and a mounting method for a vortex generator. The mounting apparatus includes: a mounting template having a pressing surface on a bottom surface and two side surfaces on both sides thereof, the pressing surface for abutting against and applying a pressure to a substrate of the vortex generator, a cavity formed in the pressing surface for accommodating a fin of the vortex generator; a plurality of annular seals attached to the two side surfaces and spaced apart from the pressing surface, each of the side surfaces having at least one annular seal attached thereto, the plurality of annular seals configured to abut a surface of the blade during installation of the vortex generator, a plurality of closed cavities are formed among the two side surfaces, the plurality of annular sealing pieces and the surfaces of the blades; and a pressure source device communicating to the plurality of chambers and configured to apply a vacuum pressure to the plurality of chambers during installation of the vortex generator such that the pressing surface presses the substrate toward the surface of the blade to bond the substrate to the surface of the blade.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to an installation device, installation system and installation method for mounting one or more vortex generators onto the surface of a wind turbine blade. Background Technology

[0002] In the production process of wind turbine blades, flow modification devices, such as vortex generators (VGs), need to be placed on the blade surface to improve the aerodynamic characteristics of the blades. Figure 1 As shown, the eddy current generator 6 typically has a substrate 61 and fins 62 protruding from the substrate 61. The substrate 61 is typically attached to the blade surface using an adhesive, and to achieve a better attachment effect, it is necessary to expel the air between the substrate 61 and the blade so that the space between the substrate 61 and the blade surface is completely filled with adhesive without any gaps.

[0003] In existing technologies, this installation process is typically performed manually using installation equipment. Specifically, operators use the equipment to manually press the substrate of the eddy current generator against the blade surface to expel air between the blade and the eddy current generator, ensuring good adhesion of the adhesive. This method is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and cannot guarantee consistent installation quality.

[0004] US Patent Application US20190309726A1 discloses a mounting device for an eddy current generator. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the mounting device 1 includes a mounting template 10 and an annular seal 20 attached to the mounting template 10. When mounting the eddy current generator, the fins of the eddy current generator are fitted into multiple cavities 15 of the mounting template 10, and the annular seal 20 is abutted against the blade surface, thereby forming a rectangular chamber within the region of the annular seal 20. When a vacuum pressure is applied to this chamber through the pressure port 181, the mounting template 10 presses the substrate of the eddy current generator against the blade surface, thereby bonding the eddy current generator to the blade surface. A disadvantage of this approach is that the pressure port 181 is located in the pressing area of ​​the mounting template 10 for pressing the substrate, causing the vacuum chamber and the pressing area to overlap and interfere. Specifically, when the mounting template 10 contacts and presses the substrate under vacuum pressure, the pressure port 181 is blocked by the substrate, making it impossible to continue applying vacuum pressure and maintain the pressing force. On the other hand, in order to maintain vacuum pressure in the chamber, the mounting template 10 must be spaced apart from the substrate, thus preventing the mounting template 10 from pressing the substrate. Therefore, this method cannot achieve a good pressing effect on the eddy current generator. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The above-mentioned problems are solved by the mounting device, mounting system and mounting method for eddy current generators according to the present invention.

[0006] According to one aspect, the present invention provides an installation device for mounting one or more vortex generators to the surface of a wind turbine blade, each of the one or more vortex generators having a substrate to be bonded to the surface of the blade and fins extending from the substrate, characterized in that the installation device comprises: an installation template having a pressing surface extending along a longitudinal axis of the installation template on a bottom surface facing the surface of the blade and two side surfaces located on both sides of the pressing surface, the pressing surface being used to abut against the substrate and apply pressure to the substrate, and a cavity for receiving the fins being formed in the pressing surface; and attachment to the two side surfaces and the... A plurality of annular seals spaced apart by a pressing surface, wherein each of the side surfaces is attached with at least one of the plurality of annular seals, and wherein the plurality of annular seals are configured to abut against the surface of the blade during installation of the one or more eddy current generators, thereby forming a plurality of closed chambers between the two side surfaces, the plurality of annular seals and the surface of the blade; a pressure source device communicating with the plurality of chambers, wherein the pressure source device is configured to apply vacuum pressure to the plurality of chambers during installation of the one or more eddy current generators, such that the pressing surface presses the substrate against the surface of the blade to bond the substrate to the surface of the blade.

[0007] According to the above scheme, the installation equipment uses negative pressure generated by a vacuum to replace manual pressing in existing technologies, which can greatly reduce the workload of operators. The pressure source device creates a vacuum environment in the bottom surface of the mounting template, and the atmospheric pressure on the top surface of the mounting template pushes the mounting template and the eddy current generator towards the blade, thereby pressing and installing the eddy current generator onto the blade surface. At the same time, the chambers used to create the vacuum are located on both sides of the pressing area, which will not interfere with the pressing action of the mounting template on the eddy current generator. Thus, while maintaining vacuum pressure in the chambers on both sides, the substrate of the eddy current generator can be pressed by the pressing surface.

[0008] Preferably, the pressing surface protrudes relative to the side surface, thereby forming a step between the pressing surface and the side surface. This step allows for the formation of a chamber with sufficient thickness to generate a uniform and stable vacuum pressure.

[0009] Preferably, a plurality of annular sealing grooves are provided in the side surface for attaching the plurality of annular seals. Advantageously, the plurality of annular seals are bonded to the corresponding sealing grooves, or attached to the corresponding sealing grooves by an interference fit.

[0010] Preferably, the pressing surface has a pressing concave surface extending along the longitudinal axis and pressing flat surfaces located on both sides of the pressing concave surface, such that during pressing of the substrate, the middle region of the substrate is pressed first to expel air present in the adhesive between the surfaces of the substrate and the blade from both sides of the substrate.

[0011] Preferably, a receiving groove is formed in the side surface along the edge of the pressing surface, the receiving groove being used to receive excess adhesive extruded from between the surfaces of the substrate and the blade. Specifically, when a step is formed between the pressing surface and the side surface, the receiving groove is formed adjacent to the step.

[0012] Preferably, the cross-section of each of the plurality of annular seals includes a rectangular region and a semi-circular region, the rectangular region being attached to the side surface and the semi-circular region being configured to abut against the surface of the blade. Specifically, when the sealing groove is formed in the side surface, the rectangular region is attached to the sealing groove. Advantageously, the rectangular region is bonded to the sealing groove or attached to the sealing groove by an interference fit.

[0013] Preferably, the pressure source device communicates with the plurality of chambers via a conduit and a channel formed in the mounting template, wherein the channel leads to the respective plurality of chambers via a plurality of pressure ports located on the side surface. Advantageously, the channel is connected to the conduit via a connection port located on the side or end face of the mounting template. Advantageously, the conduit is a flexible hose. Advantageously, a release valve is provided on the conduit to release the vacuum pressure formed in the plurality of chambers. The release valve is mounted on the conduit, eliminating the need for additional release holes on the mounting template, reducing the risk of vacuum leakage, and facilitating the replacement of the release valve. The release valve can be a needle valve or a ball valve, installed near the mounting template for convenient and timely release of vacuum pressure. Alternatively, the pressure source device is further configured to apply positive pressure to the plurality of chambers to release the vacuum pressure formed in the plurality of chambers, thereby eliminating the need for a release valve. Advantageously, a pressure gauge is provided on the conduit to monitor the pressure in the plurality of chambers. By monitoring the pressure, a desired amount of vacuum pressure can be applied to the chambers to achieve the desired pressing force on the eddy current generator, thereby ensuring consistent installation quality.

[0014] Preferably, a recess is formed in the pressing surface, the recess being configured to accommodate a molding feature protruding from the substrate when the substrate is pressed against the pressing surface. The molding feature is formed on the upper side of the substrate during the molding of the eddy current generator. The molding feature is, for example, a glue pillar protruding from the upper side of the substrate.

[0015] Preferably, the bottom of the cavity is configured to abut against the fins during installation of the vortex generator, thereby pressing the fins toward the surface of the blades. Advantageously, the cavity has a profile complementary to the shape of the fins. Alternatively, the dimensions of the cavity (one or more of length, width, and depth) are larger than the dimensions of the fins (one or more of length, width, and height), such that the cavity can accommodate fins of different specifications or sizes.

[0016] Preferably, the plurality of annular seals are distributed on the two side surfaces such that the substrate is pressed uniformly when a vacuum pressure is applied to the plurality of chambers. That is, the pressing force applied to the substrate is uniformly distributed.

[0017] Preferably, the plurality of annular seals are distributed on the two side surfaces such that when a vacuum pressure is applied to the plurality of chambers, the mounting template moves smoothly toward the blade under atmospheric pressure without tilting. Such tilting occurs, for example, between the two sides of the mounting template (i.e., a slight rotation about the longitudinal axis) or between the two ends of the mounting template (i.e., a slight rotation about a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). In particular, the plurality of annular seals are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the pressing surface and / or uniformly arranged along the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, the plurality of annular seals are circular seals, elliptical seals, rectangular seals, or combinations thereof.

[0018] Preferably, the two side surfaces are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the pressing surface. Advantageously, the two side surfaces converge at both ends along the longitudinal axis to completely surround the pressing surface. Advantageously, the plurality of annular seals are two rectangular seals respectively attached to the two side surfaces, the two rectangular seals being symmetrically arranged on both sides of the pressing surface and extending along the longitudinal axis over the entire length of the pressing surface. That is, each end of the rectangular seal extends along the longitudinal axis to or beyond the corresponding end of the pressing surface, such that the rectangular seal covers the entire length of the pressing surface. Advantageously, an annular receiving groove is formed in one of the two side surfaces along the periphery of the pressing surface, the receiving groove being used to receive excess adhesive extruded from between the surfaces of the substrate and the blade.

[0019] According to another aspect, the present invention provides an installation system for mounting one or more vortex generators onto the surface of a wind turbine blade, characterized in that the installation system includes a transport vehicle and an installation device according to the invention, the transport vehicle being configured to carry a pressure source device of the installation device during installation operations and to transport or store the installation device during non-installation operations. Preferably, the transport vehicle has an upper support platform for carrying the installation template and a lower support platform for carrying the pressure source device. Preferably, the transport vehicle is equipped with handles and wheels. Advantageously, the transport vehicle is a handcart.

[0020] According to another aspect, the present invention provides an installation method for mounting one or more vortex generators onto the surface of a wind turbine blade using an installation device, each of the one or more vortex generators having a base plate and fins extending from the base plate, characterized in that the installation method comprises: attaching a plurality of annular seals of the installation device to two side surfaces of a mounting template of the installation device; positioning the mounting template and the one or more vortex generators on the surface of the blade; forming a plurality of closed chambers between the two side surfaces, the plurality of annular seals, and the surface of the blade by abutting the plurality of annular seals against the surface of the blade; applying vacuum pressure to the plurality of chambers by a pressure source device of the installation device, such that the pressing surface presses the base plate against the surface of the blade to bond the base plate to the surface of the blade; and releasing the vacuum pressure applied to the plurality of chambers to remove the mounting template from the surface of the blade.

[0021] Preferably, the step of positioning the mounting template and the one or more eddy current generators includes: holding the one or more eddy current generators on the mounting template by placing the fins into the corresponding cavities of the mounting template and by abutting the upper side of the substrate against the pressing surface; applying adhesive to the lower side of the substrate; and placing the mounting template with the plurality of annular seals attached together with the one or more eddy current generators onto the mounting area on the surface of the blade.

[0022] Alternatively, the step of positioning the mounting template and the one or more eddy current generators includes: applying an adhesive to the underside of the substrate; placing the one or more eddy current generators onto a mounting area on the surface of the blade; and placing the mounting template with the plurality of annular seals attached onto the surface of the blade by causing the cavity of the mounting template to receive the corresponding fins and by causing the pressing surface to adhere to the upper side of the substrate.

[0023] The installation device according to the present invention can simultaneously install several eddy current generators, reducing the workload and repetitive labor of operators, shortening installation time, and greatly improving the installation efficiency of eddy current generators. Because the annular seals of this device are located on both sides of the eddy current generator and do not contact it, the influence of the eddy current generators on the formation of the vacuum chamber is avoided, and multiple sets of eddy current generators can be continuously installed on the blade. In the prior art (e.g., the solution taught in US Patent Application US20190309726A1), the seals and chambers need to be arranged adjacent to the eddy current generators, causing interference between the seals and vacuum chambers of the installation device and the eddy current generators already installed on the blade when eddy current generators are installed in a row. Therefore, continuous installation is not possible using such installation devices. Attached Figure Description

[0024] This invention is illustrated in detail by way of examples in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an eddy current generator is shown; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an installation device in the prior art is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the installation device according to the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the installation template according to the present invention is shown; Figure 5 A schematic plan view of the installation template according to the present invention is shown, wherein a portion of the length of the installation template is omitted; Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the installation device according to the invention during installation operation is shown; Figure 7 A schematic plan view of a variation of the mounting template according to the invention is shown, wherein a portion of the mounting template is omitted; Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of the annular seal according to the present invention is shown; Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the installation system according to the present invention is shown; Figure 10 A flowchart of the installation method according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, a more complete description will be given below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. However, the invention can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more complete and thorough understanding of the disclosure of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an installation device for an eddy current generator according to the present invention is shown. Figure 3 As shown, installation device 1 is used to install... Figure 1 The vortex generator 6 shown is mounted onto the surface of a wind turbine blade 7. The mounting device 1 includes a mounting template 10, two annular seals 20 attached to the mounting template 10, and a pressure source device 30 (not shown). During installation, the vortex generator 6 is placed between the mounting template 10 and the surface of the blade 7. A chamber is formed between the mounting template 10 and the surface of the blade 7 by the annular seals 20 on both sides. The chamber is evacuated by the pressure source device 30, creating a negative pressure below atmospheric pressure within the chamber. This negative pressure, caused by atmospheric pressure, presses the vortex generator 6 onto the surface of the blade 7 through the mounting template 10, thereby mounting the vortex generator 6 onto the surface of the blade 7. Figure 1 Each vortex generator 6 shown has multiple fins, and Figure 3 The image shows four eddy current generators 6 to be installed. Since multiple eddy current generators can be installed simultaneously, the positions of adjacent eddy current generators are determined by the corresponding contours on the installation template, thereby reducing the measurement and positioning work during eddy current generator installation. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the installation device 1 of the present invention is suitable for installing one or more eddy current generators 6, and each eddy current generator 6 may have one or more fins. Figure 3 The image shows two roughly rectangular seals 20 located on either side of the eddy current generator 6. However, there may be multiple seals 20, or they may have other shapes such as circular or elliptical, as detailed below.

[0027] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the installation template according to the present invention is shown. Figure 5 A schematic plan view of the installation template according to the invention is shown (where a portion of the installation template is omitted), and Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the installation device according to the invention during installation operation is shown. (Reference) Figure 4 and Figure 5The mounting template 10 is substantially rigid and is generally a long or slender plate, with its length along the longitudinal axis greater than its width transverse to the longitudinal axis. This plate is generally cuboid. For ease of description, the side of the mounting template 10 facing the blade surface is referred to herein as the "bottom surface," the side facing away from the blade surface as the "top surface," the two sides extending along the longitudinal axis between the bottom and top surfaces as the "side surfaces," and the two sides located at both ends of the longitudinal axis between the bottom and top surfaces as the "end surfaces." The bottom surface of the mounting template 10 has a pressing surface 11 extending along the longitudinal axis and two side surfaces 12 located on either side thereof. The pressing surface 11 is used to press against and apply pressure to the substrate 61 of the eddy current generator 6 during the installation operation, and the side surfaces 12 are used to receive the annular seal 20 and form a chamber 14.

[0028] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the pressing surface 11 has a pressing concave surface 111 extending along the longitudinal axis of the mounting template 10 and pressing flat surfaces 112 located on both sides of the pressing concave surface 111. The pressing concave surface 111 is recessed inward in cross-section, and the shapes of the pressing concave surface 111 and the pressing flat surfaces 112 are substantially matched or complementary to the shape of the substrate 61 of the eddy current generator 6, such that during pressing of the substrate 61, the central region of the substrate 61 is pressed first to expel air present in the adhesive from both sides of the substrate 61. Specifically, when the mounting template 10 moves toward the blade 7 under atmospheric pressure, the central region of the eddy current generator 6 is first deformed by the pressure of the mounting template 10, so that the central region is first pressed against the surface of the blade 7, and then the eddy current generator 6 is gradually pressed against the surface of the blade 7 from the center to both sides, and the air between the eddy current generator 6 and the blade 7 is expelled from both sides. At the same time, the uniformity of adhesive distribution is also improved.

[0029] Multiple cavities 15 are formed in the pressing surface 11 to accommodate multiple fins 62 of the vortex generator 6. Figure 5 The cavity 15 shown is an inclined elongated groove with an orientation and profile corresponding to the fins 62 of the vortex generator 6. The depth of the cavity 15 can correspond to the height of the fins 62, such that the bottom of the cavity 15 abuts against the top of the fins 62 during the installation of the vortex generator 6, thereby pressing the fins 62 against the surface of the blades 7 to assist in pressing. It is conceivable that the size of the cavity 15 can be larger than the size of the fins 62, so that the cavity 15 does not contact the fins 62 during the installation operation. It is also conceivable that the cavity 15 is formed by a non-inclined rectangular groove (i.e., the sides of the rectangular groove are parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis), which has a sufficiently large size to accommodate the inclined fins. Furthermore, the rectangular groove has a sufficiently large size to accommodate fins of various specifications or sizes. Figure 3 and Figure 5 It is understood that cavity 15 is a cavity with a closed bottom (e.g., a blind groove or blind hole). However, cavity 15 can also be a through cavity that penetrates the mounting template 10 (e.g., a through slot or through hole). One or more recesses 113 are also formed in the pressing surface 11 to accommodate molding features protruding from the upper side of the substrate 61, allowing the pressing surface 11 to fully contact and conform to the upper surface of the substrate 61. The molding features are, for example, glue pillars or injection gates, which are formed on the upper side of the substrate 61 during the molding of the eddy current generator 6. In addition, longitudinal gaps (not shown) may also be formed in the pressing surface 11 to space adjacent eddy current generators 6 apart from each other according to installation requirements.

[0030] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the side surface 12 is a substantially flat plane, and the pressing surface 11 protrudes relative to the side surface 12 toward the blade surface, thereby forming a step 16 between the pressing surface 11 and the side surface 12. A receiving groove 17 is formed in the side surface 12 near the step 16 to receive excess adhesive extruded between the surfaces of the substrate 61 and the blade 7, preventing the adhesive from contacting the annular seal 20 and compromising its sealing performance, thereby improving the lifespan of the annular seal. It is conceivable that there may be no step between the side surface 12 and the pressing surface 11, i.e., both the side surface 12 and the pressing surface 11 are in the same plane. Figure 5The two side surfaces 12 shown are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the pressing surface 11 and converge at both ends of the mounting template 10 to completely surround the pressing surface 11. That is, the pressing surface 11 presents the form of an "island" surrounded by the two side surfaces 12. At the same time, the step 16 and the receiving groove 17 are both annular or racetrack-shaped forms that completely surround the pressing surface 11. However, it is conceivable that the pressing surface 11 extends through the entire length of the mounting template 10, thereby separating the two side surfaces 12. In this case, the step 16 and the receiving groove 17 both extend longitudinally on both sides of the pressing surface 11. An annular (particularly racetrack-shaped) sealing groove 13 is also formed in the side surface 12, which is spaced apart from the pressing surface 11 to receive the annular seal (or annular sealing strip) 20. The sealing groove 13 is presented as two rectangular sealing grooves formed in the two side surfaces 12 respectively. These two rectangular sealing grooves and the rectangular seals they receive are arranged symmetrically about the pressing surface 11 and cover the entire length of the pressing surface 11 along the longitudinal axis. That is, each end of the rectangular sealing groove and the rectangular seals it receives extends longitudinally to or beyond the corresponding end of the pressing surface 11, so that when the chamber formed by the seal is evacuated, the pressing surface 11 can apply a uniform pressing force to the substrate 61. The sealing groove 13 should be spaced apart from the pressing surface 11 to avoid the adhesive extruded between the substrate 61 and the blade surface from contacting the seal and to prevent air bubbles from being blocked by the seal when they escape from the adhesive. The annular seal 20 can be bonded to the sealing groove 13. Using the sealing groove 13, the annular seal 20 can be quickly installed when replacing it without the need for measurement and positioning. The dimensions (width) of the sealing groove 13 can be smaller than the dimensions (width) of the annular seal 20, so that the annular seal 20 is attached to the sealing groove 13 by an interference fit without the use of adhesive or glue. In the case of an interference fit, the annular seal 20 is held between the two sides of the sealing groove 13, rather than being fixed to its bottom surface. It is conceivable that the sealing groove 13 may not be formed on the side surface 12, and the annular seal 20 may be directly attached (e.g., bonded) to the side surface 12.

[0031] Reference Figure 6During the installation of the eddy current generator 6, one side of each of the plurality of annular seals 20 is attached to the side surface 12 or a sealing groove 13 in the side surface 12, and the other side abuts against the surface of the blade 7, thereby forming a plurality of closed chambers 14 between the side surface 12, the plurality of annular seals 20, and the surface of the blade 7. It will be appreciated that, in the absence of the step 16, the height of the portion of the annular seal 20 protruding from the side surface 12 is slightly greater than the thickness of the edge or end of the substrate 61, causing this portion of the annular seal 20 to be deformed by compression when abutting against the surface of the blade 7, thus making the thickness of the formed chamber 14 approximately equal to the thickness of the edge of the substrate 61. In the presence of the step 16, the height of the portion of the annular seal 20 protruding from the side surface 12 is slightly greater than the sum of the thickness of the edge of the substrate 61 and the height of the step 16, causing this portion of the annular seal 20 to be deformed by compression when abutting against the surface of the blade 7, thus making the thickness of the formed chamber 14 approximately equal to the sum of the thickness of the edge of the substrate 61 and the height of the step 16. The chamber 14 formed by the step 16 has a more stable thickness and pressurized volume.

[0032] A channel 18 is formed in the mounting template 10, which leads to a corresponding chamber 14 via a plurality of pressure ports 181 located on the side surface 12, and via a connection port 182 located on the side or end face of the mounting template 10 (see Figure 4 The connection port 182 leads to the pressure source device 30. By placing the connection port 182 on the side or end face of the mounting template 10, contact between the connection port 182 and the eddy current generator can be avoided, thereby preventing the connection port 182 from affecting the installation operation. Figure 5 The diagram shows only one pressure port 181 for a single seal. It is conceivable that multiple pressure ports 181 exist for a single seal, evenly distributed across the region of the seal to provide a uniform vacuum pressure to a corresponding chamber 14. It will be appreciated that, since a connection port 182 is to be connected to multiple pressure ports 181, the channel 18 formed in the mounting template 10 can have multiple branches, one end of which converges to the single connection port 182, and the other end branches to the aforementioned multiple pressure ports 181. During installation, the pressure source device 30 evacuates the chamber 14 via the channel 18 to create a negative pressure within the chamber 14, causing the pressing surface 11 to press the substrate 61 against the surface of the blade 7 under the action of external atmospheric pressure. This removes air bubbles present in the adhesive between the substrate 61 and the surface of the blade 7, and bonds the substrate 61 to the surface of the blade 7.

[0033] Figure 7 A schematic plan view of a variation of the mounting template according to the invention is shown, wherein a portion of the mounting template is omitted. Figure 7As shown, the number of sealing grooves 13 arranged on each side surface 12 can be multiple, and they can be of different shapes, such as rectangular, circular (i.e., O-shaped), elliptical, or combinations thereof. Each sealing groove 13 is provided with one or more corresponding pressure ports 181. These sealing grooves 13 on the two side surfaces 12 should be arranged such that when a vacuum pressure is applied to the corresponding chamber formed by its seal, the substrate 61 will be pressed evenly, that is, the pressing pressure applied to the substrate 61 is evenly distributed. Additionally or alternatively, these sealing grooves 13 on the two side surfaces 12 should be arranged such that when a vacuum pressure is applied to the corresponding chamber formed by its seal, the mounting template 10 moves smoothly (or translates) towards the blade 7 under atmospheric pressure without tilting or warping. Such tilting may occur between the two sides of the mounting template 10 (i.e., a slight rotation about the longitudinal axis) or between the two ends of the mounting template 10 (i.e., a slight rotation about a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). It can be appreciated that the annular seals 20 can be similar in number, shape and distribution, whether or not they have the sealing groove 13.

[0034] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of a rectangular annular seal according to the present invention is shown. Figure 8 As shown, the cross-section of the annular seal 20 includes a rectangular region 201 and a semi-circular region 202. The rectangular region 201 is designed to be attached (e.g., bonded) to the side surface 12, and the semi-circular region 202 is designed to abut against the surface of the blade 7 and be deformed by compression to form a seal between the mounting template 10 and the surface of the blade 7. If a sealing groove 13 is formed in the side surface 12, the rectangular region 201 is attached to the sealing groove 13. Specifically, the rectangular region 201 can be bonded to the sealing groove 13 or attached to the sealing groove 13 by an interference fit. The annular seal 20 has a simple structure, requires no specific annular structure, and does not require mold making. It can be implemented on-site by bonding a section of sealing strip end to end to form a closed-loop structure according to actual needs, thereby reducing costs. The annular seal can be made of foamed rubber with a low density. The annular seal can form surface contact with the blade surface, resulting in a large contact area, thus reducing the requirements for blade surface quality. Furthermore, in the case of a circular form, the annular seal 20 can use commercially available standard parts, such as O-rings.

[0035] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of an installation system for an eddy current generator according to the present invention is shown. Figure 9As shown, the installation system 100 includes an installation device 1 and a transport vehicle 50. The installation device 1 further includes an installation template 10, an annular seal 20 (not shown), a pressure source device 30, and a conduit 40 connecting the pressure source device 30 and the installation template 10. The pressure source device 30 is, for example, a vacuum pump, which communicates with a chamber 14 via the conduit 40 and a channel 18 formed in the installation template 10. The channel 18 is connected to the conduit 40 via a connection port 182. The conduit 40 can be a flexible hose, and a release valve (e.g., a needle valve or a ball valve) can be provided on the conduit 40 to release the vacuum pressure formed in the chamber 14. Additionally, a pressure gauge can be provided on the conduit 40 to monitor the pressure in the chamber 14. In this way, the magnitude of the vacuum pressure formed in the chamber 14 can be precisely controlled, and thereby the magnitude of the pressure applied to the eddy current generator can be precisely controlled, thus achieving a consistent and desired pressing effect. It is conceivable that a release valve could be omitted, and instead, a positive pressure above atmospheric pressure could be applied to chamber 14 using pressure source device 30 to release the vacuum pressure formed in chamber 14. Alternatively, a dedicated release port through channel 18 leading to the external environment could be provided to release the vacuum pressure. Furthermore, other valves, fittings, and other pneumatic devices could be provided on conduit 40. Specifically, conduit 40 could be connected to channel 18 of vacuum template 10 via connection port 182 using a quick-connect fitting, which could be quickly inserted and removed to achieve rapid assembly and disassembly between conduit 40 and vacuum template 10. Conduit 40 could also be connected to pressure source device 30 via a quick-connect fitting to achieve rapid assembly and disassembly between conduit 40 and pressure source device 30.

[0036] like Figure 9 As shown, the transport vehicle 50 is basically a handcart equipped with a handle 53 and multiple wheels 54, and has an upper support platform 51 and a lower support platform 52. The installation template 10 with an annular seal 20 attached can be placed on the upper support platform 51, and the pressure source device 30 can be placed on the lower support platform 52. In this way, the entire installation equipment 1 can be stored on the transport vehicle 50 during non-installation operations. When installation operations are required, the transport vehicle 50 can be used to transport the installation equipment 1 to the working position near the blade, and the installation template 10 can be removed for installation.

[0037] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating an installation method for an eddy current generator according to the present invention is shown. Figure 10As shown, the installation method begins at step S10, where preparatory work for the installation steps needs to be completed, such as preparing materials, inspecting equipment, and connecting components. Next, at step S20, multiple annular seals 20 of the mounting device 1 are attached to the two side surfaces 12 of the mounting template 10 of the mounting device 1 to form a mounting template 10 with the annular seals 20 attached. If a sealing groove 13 is formed in the side surface 12, the annular seals 20 are attached to the sealing groove 13.

[0038] Subsequently, in step S30, the mounting template 10 with the annular seal 20 attached and one or more eddy current generators 6 are positioned at the mounting location on the surface of the blade 7. Positioning step S30 can be performed in two steps. In the first step, in step S31, the eddy current generator 6 is first held on the mounting template 10, which is achieved by placing the fins 62 of the eddy current generator 6 into the corresponding cavity 15 of the mounting template 10 and by making the upper side of the substrate 61 of the eddy current generator 6 adhere to the pressing surface 11 of the mounting template 10; then, in step S32, adhesive is applied (coated or smeared) to the lower side of the substrate 61 of the eddy current generator 6 held on the mounting template 10; finally, in step S33, the mounting template 10 with the annular seal 20 attached and the eddy current generator 6 with the applied adhesive are placed together on the mounting area on the surface of the blade 7. In the second process, firstly, in step S35, an adhesive is applied (coated or smeared) to the underside of the substrate 61 of the eddy current generator 6; then, in step S36, the eddy current generator 6 with the adhesive applied is placed on the mounting area on the surface of the blade 7; finally, in step S37, the mounting template 10 with the annular seal 20 attached is also placed on the surface of the blade 7, and the cavity 15 of the mounting template 10 should receive the corresponding fin 62 of the eddy current generator 6, and the pressing surface 11 should be in contact with the upper side of the substrate 61 of the eddy current generator 6.

[0039] After positioning step S30 is completed, the installation method proceeds to step S40. In step S40, a cavity 14 is formed between the mounting template 10, the annular seal 20, and the surface of the blade 7. Specifically, the annular seals 20 are brought abutted against the surface of the blade 7, thereby forming a plurality of closed cavities 14 between the two side surfaces 12 of the mounting template 10, the plurality of annular seals 20, and the surface of the blade 7. Next, in step S50, vacuum pressure is applied to the plurality of cavities 14 by the pressure source device 30 to create a negative pressure in the cavities 14, thereby pressing the substrate 61 against the surface of the blade 7 by external atmospheric pressure via the mounting template 10 (particularly the pressing surface 11). In this way, air bubbles present in the adhesive between the substrate 61 and the surface of the blade 7 are squeezed out, and the substrate 61 is bonded to the surface of the blade 7. The vacuum pressure formed in the cavity 14 can be maintained for a certain period of time to allow the adhesive to cure. Then, in step S60, the vacuum pressure in the cavity 14 is released, and the mounting template 10 with the annular seals 20 attached is separated from the surface of the blade 7. Finally, the installation process ends at step S70, after which other eddy current generators can be installed or the installation can be completed.

[0040] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0041] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementations of the present invention, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present invention, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent should be determined by the appended claims.

[0042] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 100. Install the system 1. Install equipment 10. Install template 11. Press the surface 111. Press the concave surface 112. Press the flat surface 113. Depression 12. Side surface 13. Sealing groove 14. Chamber 15. Cavity 16. Steps 17. Receiving slot 18. Passage 181. Pressure Port 182. Connection Port 20. Annular seal 201. Rectangular area 202. Semicircular area 30. Pressure source device 40. Catheter 50. Transport vehicle 51. Upper support platform 52. Lower support platform 53. Handle 54. Wheel 6. Eddy current generator 61. Substrate 62. Fins 7. Leaves S10, Start S20. Attach the annular seal to the mounting template. S30. Position and install the template and eddy current generator on the surface of the blade. S31. Hold the eddy current generator on the mounting template. S32. Apply adhesive to the substrate of the eddy current generator. S33. Place the installation template onto the surface of the blade. S35. Apply adhesive to the substrate of the eddy current generator. S36. Place the eddy current generator on the surface of the blade. S37. Place the installation template onto the surface of the blade. S40. A closed cavity is formed between the surfaces of the mounting template, annular seal, and blade. S50, Apply vacuum pressure to the chamber to press the eddy current generator. S60, Release vacuum pressure to remove mounting template. S70, End.

Claims

1. An installation device (1) for mounting one or more vortex generators (6) to the surface of a blade (7) of a wind turbine, each of the one or more vortex generators (6) having a substrate (61) to be bonded to the surface of the blade (7) and fins (62) extending from the substrate (61), characterized in that, The installation equipment (1) includes: The mounting template (10) has a pressing surface (11) extending along the longitudinal axis of the mounting template (10) on the bottom surface facing the blade (7) and two side surfaces (12) located on both sides of the pressing surface (11). The pressing surface (11) is used to abut against the substrate (61) and apply pressure to the substrate (61). A cavity (15) for accommodating the fin (62) is formed in the pressing surface (11). A plurality of annular seals (20) are attached to the two side surfaces (12) and spaced apart from the pressing surface (11), wherein each of the side surfaces (12) is attached with at least one of the plurality of annular seals (20), and wherein the plurality of annular seals (20) are configured to abut against the surface of the blade (7) during installation of the one or more eddy current generators (6), thereby forming a plurality of closed chambers (14) between the two side surfaces (12), the plurality of annular seals (20) and the surface of the blade (7); and A pressure source device (30) connected to the plurality of chambers (14) wherein the pressure source device (30) is configured to apply vacuum pressure to the plurality of chambers (14) during installation of the one or more eddy current generators (6), such that the pressing surface (11) presses the substrate (61) against the surface of the blade (7) to bond the substrate (61) to the surface of the blade (7).

2. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressing surface (11) protrudes relative to the side surface (12), thereby forming a step (16) between the pressing surface (11) and the side surface (12).

3. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Multiple annular sealing grooves (13) are provided in the side surface (12) for attaching the multiple annular seals (20).

4. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of annular seals (20) are bonded to the corresponding sealing grooves (13) or attached to the corresponding sealing grooves (13) by an interference fit.

5. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The pressing surface (11) has a pressing concave surface (111) extending along the longitudinal axis and pressing flat surfaces (112) located on both sides of the pressing concave surface (111), such that during pressing of the substrate (61), the middle region of the substrate (61) is pressed first so as to expel air present in the adhesive between the surfaces of the substrate (61) and the blade (7) from both sides of the substrate (61).

6. The installation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A receiving groove (17) is formed in the side surface (12) along the edge of the pressing surface (11), the receiving groove (17) being used to receive excess adhesive squeezed out between the surfaces of the substrate (61) and the blade (7).

7. The installation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of annular seals (20) has a cross-section comprising a rectangular region (201) and a semi-circular region (202), the rectangular region (201) being attached to the side surface (12) and the semi-circular region (202) being configured to abut against the surface of the blade (7).

8. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The pressure source device (30) is connected to the plurality of chambers (14) via a conduit (40) and a channel (18) formed in the mounting template (10), wherein the channel (18) leads to the respective plurality of chambers (14) via a plurality of pressure ports (181) located in the side surface (12).

9. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The channel (18) is connected to the conduit (40) via a connection port (182) located on the side or end face of the mounting template (10).

10. The installation device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, A release valve is provided on the conduit (40) to release the vacuum pressure formed in the plurality of chambers (14).

11. The installation equipment (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, A pressure gauge is provided on the catheter (40) to monitor the pressure in the plurality of chambers (14).

12. The installation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A recess (113) is formed in the pressing surface (11), the recess (113) being configured to accommodate a molding feature protruding from the substrate (61) when the pressing surface (11) presses the substrate (61).

13. The installation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of annular seals (20) are distributed on the two side surfaces (12) such that the substrate (61) is pressed uniformly when a vacuum pressure is applied to the plurality of chambers (14).

14. The installation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of annular seals (20) are distributed on the two side surfaces (12) such that when a vacuum pressure is applied to the plurality of chambers (14), the mounting template (10) moves smoothly toward the blade (7) under atmospheric pressure without tilting.

15. The installation device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The plurality of annular seals (20) are circular seals, elliptical seals, rectangular seals, or combinations thereof.

16. The installation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The two side surfaces (12) are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the pressing surface (11).

17. The installation device (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The two side surfaces (12) converge at both ends along the longitudinal axis to completely surround the pressing surface (11).

18. The installation device (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The plurality of annular seals (20) are two rectangular seals respectively attached to the two side surfaces (12), the two rectangular seals being symmetrically arranged on both sides of the pressing surface (11) and extending along the longitudinal axis over the entire length of the pressing surface (11).

19. The installation device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that, An annular receiving groove (17) is formed in the two side surfaces (12) along the periphery of the pressing surface (11), the receiving groove (17) being used to receive excess adhesive squeezed out from between the surfaces of the substrate (61) and the blade (7).

20. An installation system (100) for mounting one or more eddy current generators (6) onto the surface of a wind turbine blade (7), characterized in that, The installation system (100) includes a transport vehicle (50) and an installation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the transport vehicle (50) being configured to carry a pressure source device (30) of the installation device (1) during installation operations and to transport or store the installation device (1) during non-installation operations.

21. A method of mounting one or more vortex generators (6) onto the surface of a blade (7) of a wind turbine using the mounting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, each of the one or more vortex generators (6) having a base plate (61) and fins (62) extending from the base plate (61), characterized in that, The installation method includes: The plurality of annular seals (20) of the mounting device (1) are attached to the two side surfaces (12) of the mounting template (10) of the mounting device (1). Position the mounting template (10) and the one or more eddy current generators (6) on the surface of the blade (7). By abutting the plurality of annular seals (20) against the surface of the blade (7), a plurality of closed chambers (14) are formed between the two side surfaces (12), the plurality of annular seals (20) and the surface of the blade (7). Vacuum pressure is applied to the plurality of chambers (14) by the pressure source device (30) of the mounting device (1), so that the pressing surface (11) presses the substrate (61) against the surface of the blade (7) to bond the substrate (61) to the surface of the blade (7); Release the vacuum pressure applied to the plurality of chambers (14) to remove the mounting template (10) from the surface of the blade (7).

22. The installation method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The steps of positioning the mounting template (10) and the one or more eddy current generators (6) include: The one or more eddy current generators (6) are held on the mounting template (10) by placing the fins (62) into the corresponding cavities (15) of the mounting template (10) and by making the upper side of the substrate (61) fit against the pressing surface (11). An adhesive is applied to the underside of the substrate (61); The mounting template (10) with the plurality of annular seals (20) attached, together with the one or more eddy current generators (6), is placed on the mounting area on the surface of the blade (7).

23. The installation method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The steps of positioning the mounting template (10) and the one or more eddy current generators (6) include: An adhesive is applied to the underside of the substrate (61); Place the one or more eddy current generators (6) onto the mounting area on the surface of the blade (7); By having the cavity (15) of the mounting template (10) receive the corresponding fin (62) and by having the pressing surface (11) adhere to the upper side of the substrate (61), the mounting template (10) with the plurality of annular seals (20) attached is placed on the surface of the blade (7).

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