Hub for a rotor of a wind turbine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hub (1) for a rotor (110) of a wind turbine (100), the hub comprising a hub body (2) having a first flange (3) configured for attaching the hub body to a rotor shaft of the wind turbine and at least one second flange (5) configured for supporting rotor blades, the at least one second flange defining a second flange region (6) of the hub body, the hub further comprising at least two reinforcing elements (7) extending within at least a portion of the second flange region, each reinforcing element abutting the hub body at at least two joints (8), wherein each reinforcing element extends along a length direction (S-S) of a reference rotor shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to wind turbines, rotors for wind turbines, and more specifically, hubs for rotors of wind turbines. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technological solutions, wind turbines include a hub for supporting rotor blades.

[0003] The hub of a wind turbine is supported by a shaft (rotor shaft), which is typically housed inside the nacelle and arranged to connect the hub, which carries the blades, to the wind turbine's tower. To support one or more blades, the hub has one or more flanges, commonly referred to as "blade connecting flanges." Between the blade connecting flanges of the hub and the blade sections are blade bearings that allow each blade to rotate relative to the hub, connected by bolts, such as those called blade root end bolts, or by other means.

[0004] Under the influence of aerodynamic loads, the hub can rotate together with the blades around the axis of rotation, thereby providing mechanical output at the shaft.

[0005] The hub that supports the blade bearings and long rotor blades is subjected to high-intensity loads, for example, at and around the flange region of the hub. These loads include, but are not limited to, axial loads, radial loads, and bending loads. Therefore, it is crucial that the hub be robust enough to withstand these loads, minimizing deformation / deflection as much as possible and mitigating other inherent effects such as ellipticization. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the objective of this disclosure is to provide a solution that, compared to known prior art solutions, beneficially strengthens the flange and improves load distribution on the hub.

[0007] In particular, it should contribute to the manufacture of the hub.

[0008] This disclosure relates to a wind turbine, a rotor of a wind turbine, and a hub for a rotor of a wind turbine.

[0009] The hub may be part of a rotor according to the present disclosure, and the rotor may be part of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure.

[0010] According to this disclosure, a hub includes at least a hub body. The hub body may be a basic structural part of the hub.

[0011] The hub body according to this disclosure includes at least a first flange and at least one second flange. The hub also includes at least two reinforcing elements, which may be an integral part of the hub body or a separate part fixed to the hub body by means of fastening devices.

[0012] The first flange is preferably configured to attach the hub body to the rotor shaft of the wind turbine. Here, the rotor shaft is configured to connect the hub and blades constituting the rotor to the nacelle and tower of the wind turbine.

[0013] The second flange is preferably configured to support the rotor blades. In other words, one or more rotor blades of the wind turbine are preferably attached to the hub body via one or more second flanges in a movable manner.

[0014] In one embodiment, the hub body includes three second flanges configured to each support a rotor blade, such that the hub body carries a total of three rotor blades. Alternatively, the hub body may also include one or more third flanges for supporting the rotor blades, the third flanges being different from the second flanges.

[0015] According to this disclosure, at least one second flange (or each of a plurality of second flanges) defines a second flange region of the hub body. According to embodiments, the second flange region is an inner circumferential region enclosed, surrounded, or defined by the second flange. For example, if the second flange is circular, the second flange region can be characterized by the inner diameter dimension of the second flange, or if the second flange is generally circular or non-circular, it can be characterized by any other characteristic dimension.

[0016] For example, the first flange and the second flange are manufactured integrally with the hub body.

[0017] At least two reinforcing elements extend within at least a portion of the second flange region. In other words, each reinforcing element extends in one (or more) direction to abut the hub body, with the extension portion partially or completely within the second flange region.

[0018] According to an embodiment, a portion of one (or more) of the reinforcing elements may be adjacent to the second flange region, while the remainder of the reinforcing elements is adjacent to the hub body excluding the second flange region.

[0019] According to some embodiments, each reinforcing element abuts the hub body at at least two joints. In other words, each reinforcing element may originate from or begin at two or more points on the hub body and extend in one (or more) directions within the second flange region. The area where the reinforcing element intersects with the hub body (housing) constitutes a "joint".

[0020] According to the implementation method, when the reinforcing element is cast together with the hub, the joint can be inherently formed.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the joint can be one of the following: a metallurgical joint, such as a welded joint; or a mechanical joint, such as a riveted joint or a bolted joint; or a geometrically defined joint, such as a dovetail joint or a snap-fit ​​joint.

[0022] At least two joints can be selected from the same or different types of joints. There can be more than two joints, such as three joints, four joints, five joints, or more than five joints.

[0023] In particular, the length direction of each reinforcing element extends with reference to the extension direction of the rotor shaft.

[0024] In addition, each reinforcing element defines a certain range, and in some embodiments, the term "defined range" will be used.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the defined range of each reinforcing element is characterized in that the reinforcing element extends generally along the extension direction of the rotor shaft defined between the first flange and the front end of the hub body opposite to the first flange.

[0026] According to an embodiment, at least one of the reinforcing elements extends in a length direction, wherein the length direction may be defined as the extension direction of the rotation axis of the rotor shaft or the extension direction of the rotation axis of the rotor shaft, or approximately along the rotation axis of the rotor shaft.

[0027] The axis of the rotor shaft is the same as the axis of rotation of the hub itself, so the terms "hub axis", "axis of rotation" or simply "axis axis" can be used interchangeably in the specification.

[0028] In some embodiments, the length direction can be defined as the direction of the extension between the first flange and the front end of the hub body opposite to the first flange. In other words, the extension direction is along or approximately along the axis of rotation.

[0029] The reference to the axis of rotation above applies when viewing the wind turbine from above. When viewed from the side, the reinforcing element may be tilted relative to the axis of rotation.

[0030] In other embodiments, when viewed from the side or top, the length direction can be defined or referenced as a longitudinal direction extending from the rotor to the rear end of the nacelle.

[0031] An arrangement of at least two reinforcing elements can produce the greatest mechanical stability.

[0032] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the thickness of at least one reinforcing element is constant within a defined range.

[0033] According to some implementations, a “defined range”—or simply “range”—can be at least one principal direction in which the reinforcing element extends or substantially extends. For example, the range can be linear relative to a reference direction—for example, the longitudinal direction (extension direction) of the axis of rotation or rotor shaft—or it can be non-linear.

[0034] A reinforcing element can be characterized by three distinct dimensions, such as the extent (or direction of extension) defined above, width, and thickness. More specifically, the direction of extension (or extent) can be considered as the first dimension, and the width direction can be considered as the second dimension perpendicular to the corresponding direction of extension (i.e., the first dimension) of the reinforcing element. Thickness (or depth, depending on the context) is the third dimension perpendicular to both the direction of extension (the first dimension) and the width direction (the second dimension) as defined above.

[0035] The term "range" can be alternatively referred to as the direction of extension of a reinforcing element, where the reinforcing element has a significantly larger dimension compared to the dimensions in the other dimensions—namely, width and thickness. For example, if the reinforcing element is a rod or beam, the range is defined along the length direction, and this dimension is significantly larger than the dimensions in the other two directions—namely, width and height / depth.

[0036] When a reinforcing element is viewed in cross-section or from the side, the thickness direction of the reinforcing element can be understood as the height or depth of the reinforcing element.

[0037] According to the implementation, one or more reinforcing elements have variable widths while the thickness remains constant throughout. For example, a reinforcing element may be defined by two edge portions, wherein one of these edges extends linearly to form a straight edge portion, and the other edge portion extends non-linearly (e.g., curvedly), resulting in a variable width geometry for the reinforcing element.

[0038] When viewed from above, the variable width can also be understood as, for example, a tapering width, while the cross-sectional thickness remains constant along a defined range.

[0039] Each reinforcing element can be constructed as a reinforcing web, for example, as a rod, beam, plate, tube, or element of any different type with any geometry.

[0040] According to the implementation, the joint of any (or more) reinforcing elements may branch so as to form two or more sub-joints when the reinforcing element is adjacent to the hub body.

[0041] A reinforcing element with a constant thickness advantageously possesses high stiffness and high mechanical stability. Furthermore, the casting, demolding, and manufacturing processes associated with the reinforcing element according to this disclosure can be easily carried out.

[0042] Each reinforcing element can be cast integrally with the hub, or it can be manufactured separately and attached to the hub later. Multiple reinforcing elements can be manufactured using different methods and / or produced with different properties, such as different material properties, different mechanical properties, different geometries, etc.

[0043] The reinforcing elements can be arranged such that the dimensions of several reinforcing elements extend in the same direction.

[0044] According to the embodiment, at least two reinforcing elements are arranged in a mirror-symmetric manner with respect to at least one of the first plane and the rotation axis SS of the rotor shaft.

[0045] According to the implementation, when taking into account the two-dimensional features of the reinforcing element, such as its range and width, mirror symmetry can be referenced to an axis, such as a rotation axis SS.

[0046] According to another embodiment, when taking into account all three-dimensional features of the reinforcing element, namely its range, width, and thickness, mirror symmetry can refer to a plane, such as a first plane.

[0047] Furthermore, the structural and geometric features of the two reinforcing elements can be mirror-symmetric relative to each other. Here, the mirror plane can extend along (or parallel to) the thickness direction of the reinforcing element.

[0048] The symmetrical surfaces of the two reinforcing elements can be defined or referenced relative to the axis of rotation, wherein the thickness direction of the reinforcing elements extends orthogonally to the symmetrical surfaces in the direction toward the axis of rotation.

[0049] According to the embodiments, each reinforcing element has a geometry selected from, but not limited to, the following: rectangular shape, cube or prism shape, plano-concave shape, plano-convex shape, biconcave shape, biconvex shape, and any combination thereof.

[0050] In one embodiment, the reinforcing element may be designed as a completely solid component or a hollow component or a combination of both, wherein the solid component has certain hollow features, such as hollow cavities or recesses.

[0051] According to an embodiment, at least one of the joints includes a recessed portion that is advantageously configured to accommodate at least a portion of a bolt for receiving a rotor blade or rotor blade bearing.

[0052] The recessed portion is a local surface area of ​​the joint, the height of which is lower than or slightly lower than the height of the surrounding surface of the joint, or lower than the upper surface area of ​​the reinforcing element itself away from the joint.

[0053] A rounded recess or a curved recess is an example of a recessed portion.

[0054] The recessed portion allows the operator to easily place and manipulate tools, machines, etc., used for operations such as tightening or loosening rotor blade bolts.

[0055] Therefore, the bearings of the rotor blades, and thus the blades themselves, can be arranged in precisely specified positions.

[0056] By arranging the bearings accordingly, the load distribution can be improved, and the design of the hub, blade root section, and bearings can be more varied and flexible.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the reinforcing element may have at least one non-planar feature, such as an arcuate edge or an arched upper surface. The cross-sectional thickness may be constant along the extension of the reinforcing element between the joints.

[0058] The geometry mentioned can be the primary geometry of the reinforcing element. The reinforcing element may also include additional segments that deviate from the primary geometry.

[0059] The symmetrical arrangement of the reinforcing elements about at least one of the first plane and the axis of rotation (SS) improves stability and facilitates manufacturing. The distribution of applied forces can be improved.

[0060] In another embodiment, the geometric features of the two reinforcing elements may differ from each other, such that the reinforcing elements are geometrically asymmetrical with respect to at least one of the first plane and the axis of rotation (SS). The geometric features may be, for example, width and thickness.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the geometry of at least one reinforcing element is asymmetrical with respect to at least one of the second plane and the axis PP which is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction of the rotor shaft.

[0062] According to the embodiment, the first plane may extend along the rotation axis SS, and the second plane may extend along an axis PP perpendicular to the rotation axis SS. Furthermore, the first and second planes are orthogonal.

[0063] Therefore, the distribution of the applied force can be further improved and modified according to the different applied forces at different ends of the hub / flange.

[0064] According to an embodiment, at least one of the reinforcing elements includes one, two or more segments spanning the length direction, such that the thickness of each segment is constant along the length direction.

[0065] This can help to effectively cast the reinforcing elements and hub into one piece, while providing different mechanical / structural properties corresponding to different sections.

[0066] This has the advantage of increasing design freedom.

[0067] According to one embodiment, a single segment may include the entire reinforcing element.

[0068] According to an embodiment, at least one of the reinforcing elements comprises at least two segments, and the intersection of any two adjacent segments of the two or more segments comprises a transition portion.

[0069] For example, the transition section can be constructed as a stepped section, a tapered section, or a rounded corner (rounded corner, elliptical rounded corner, etc.), or a repeating geometric pattern along the width direction, such as a corrugated section, a groove, etc.

[0070] A well-shaped transition section can advantageously support or facilitate load distribution in reinforcing elements.

[0071] According to an embodiment, at least one reinforcing element includes at least one edge portion having an arcuate profile.

[0072] The described structure helps to enhance the demolding of components during manufacturing.

[0073] According to an embodiment, at least one of the reinforcing elements includes at least one provision for supporting a pitch actuator used to pitch the rotor blades.

[0074] According to the embodiment, each of the two symmetrically arranged reinforcing elements as defined above includes at least one mounting device for supporting a pitch actuator used to pitch the rotor blades. Therefore, the at least two mounting devices for supporting the pitch actuator are arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0075] Therefore, the pitch actuator can be installed on either side of the rotation axis.

[0076] If a pitch actuator on one side is damaged or fails, it can be replaced by a pitch actuator on the other side. Due to symmetry, the distance between each pitch actuator and the axis of rotation can remain constant.

[0077] If the pitch actuator malfunctions or exhibits failure, such as damage to the meshing element (teeth) of the slewing bearing, the pitch actuator can be removed from the device and attached to another device where the meshing element (teeth) of the slewing bearing is undamaged.

[0078] One or more mounting devices may be configured as recesses or holes, which may be shown as flange structures or similar brackets.

[0079] A pitch actuator is an actuator used to drive and set the pitch angle of rotor blades.

[0080] Advantageously, apart from the reinforcing elements, no other support structures are needed for the pitch actuator.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of at least one of the reinforcing elements includes a central portion having a constant thickness along the width direction and at least one edge portion having a variable thickness along the width direction perpendicular to the corresponding extension direction of the reinforcing element, wherein, as previously described, the thickness is a dimension of the reinforcing element perpendicular to both the extension direction and the width direction.

[0082] The cross section is the cross section of the reinforcing element perpendicular to the defined area (depicting the width and thickness dimensions).

[0083] Different specific implementations are possible. For example, the reinforcing element may have a constant thickness in the central portion, but may have a tapered or rounded structure in the edge portion, thereby narrowing the thickness of the edge portion.

[0084] Depending on the implementation, one or more edges in the edge portion may be tapered or rounded.

[0085] The reinforcing element may also include two or more edge portions adjacent to the central portion from different sides.

[0086] The described structure with edge portions of variable thickness can help reinforce the demolding of components during manufacturing.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the periphery of the second flange region, particularly the edge portion of the second flange region, and at least one of the reinforcing elements define the opening.

[0088] The opening can be an opening that allows access to the interior of the rotor blade or the corresponding blade bearing via the second flange region.

[0089] For example, an opening can be used to access the bolts or bolt sets used to attach the blade or blade bearing to the second flange.

[0090] Therefore, at least two openings can be provided between the periphery of the second flange region and each of the reinforcing elements.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the nonlinear (e.g., curved) edge portion of one of the reinforcing elements may differ from the nonlinear (e.g., curved) edge portions of the other reinforcing elements. This may result in a geometrical asymmetry between the two reinforcing elements about the axis SS. Furthermore, this may result in different numbers of blade root end bolts used to restrict or close the opening defined by the respective nonlinear (e.g., curved) edge portions of the two reinforcing elements when assembling the blade.

[0092] The curvature or radius of curvature of the curved edge portion of one of the reinforcing elements can differ from the curvature of the other reinforcing elements, resulting in an asymmetry about the axis SS. This leads to two openings with different numbers of bolts surrounding them during blade assembly.

[0093] Furthermore, the smaller radius of curvature at the edges means more material is added near the front and rear sides of the hub, resulting in better stiffness.

[0094] According to the implementation, the nonlinear (e.g., curved) edge portion (defining the opening) can be selected such that the nonlinear range (e.g., bending length) of the nonlinear edge portion is minimized. This can lead to optimization of the materials and design of the reinforcing element near the front and / or rear regions of the hub, resulting in better stiffness in these regions.

[0095] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, at least two reinforcing elements may define an additional orifice between them.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the orifice is constructed between a pair of reinforcing elements and separates the pair of reinforcing elements, thereby defining two separate reinforcing elements that are not directly connected.

[0097] The orifice can be configured, for example, as a cutout, to allow access to the pitch control console associated with the pitch actuator for installation, repair, inspection, and / or replacement. The orifice can also provide an access passage between the hub and blade regions in a manner similar to an opening.

[0098] According to one embodiment, at least two reinforcing elements are configured to support the component spanning the orifice.

[0099] The component may be, for example, a component associated with the following: a pitch system; or a hatch; or an entry device for a transport vehicle or for light machinery with wheels, similar to a ramp or track; or a component for transferring, for example, a lifting mechanism for transferring the pitch actuator from one setting device to another in the event of a malfunction at the location; or a platform for connecting two reinforcing elements, etc.

[0100] In this document, “across the orifice” means extending between at least two reinforcing elements and thereby covering at least a portion of the orifice.

[0101] In one implementation, the component may be, for example, a cabinet for an electronic device that can be easily accessed through an opening.

[0102] According to the implementation, the orifice allows for several operations to be performed on the component. For example, the orifice allows the component to be raised or lowered relative to the orifice, for example, to access the interior of a blade. The orifice also facilitates the assembly or securing, inspection, repair, replacement, reorientation, and repositioning of the component or parts associated with the component.

[0103] In one embodiment, the component, such as a cabinet, is configured to structurally support at least two reinforcing elements. Therefore, the component forms a mechanical support extending between two adjacent reinforcing elements. The two reinforcing elements do not directly abut against each other.

[0104] In one embodiment, at least two reinforcing elements are designed to support the hatch, which is arranged to provide an entrance between the hub region and the blade region via an orifice. Specifically, the hatch is arranged to close the orifice or a portion thereof and to open it when needed.

[0105] In other embodiments, at least one reinforcing element is arranged in a plane different from the plane of at least one other reinforcing element.

[0106] In other words, multiple reinforcing elements of two or more reinforcing elements may extend within at least a portion of the second flange region, wherein at least two different reinforcing elements are arranged in two different planes.

[0107] For example, a reinforcing element may be arranged in a first plane, and a second reinforcing element may be arranged in a second plane; or two symmetrical reinforcing elements may be arranged in a first plane, and two additional symmetrical reinforcing webs may be arranged in a second plane.

[0108] According to an exemplary embodiment having two reinforcing elements, a first reinforcing element extending along a first plane is configured to reinforce a first region, such as a second flange region. Furthermore, a second reinforcing element extending along a second plane different from the first plane is configured to reinforce a second region, such as the intersection between the blade flange region and the hub body (housing portion), or the entire hub body (housing portion) remote from the second flange region.

[0109] According to one embodiment, at least two reinforcing elements in different planes are configured to support a component spanning an orifice, the component being configured as a ramp between the two reinforcing elements.

[0110] The ramp allows personnel to move from one reinforcing element to another.

[0111] According to the implementation method, the first plane and the second plane may be parallel or non-parallel.

[0112] According to the embodiment, a bridging element may be provided between the first reinforcing element and the second reinforcing element. Attached Figure Description

[0113] The present disclosure is illustrated below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples.

[0114] This disclosure is not limited to the examples shown.

[0115] The attached diagram shows the following:

[0116] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram of a wind turbine according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0117] Figure 2 The illustration shows a first perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary hub including two parallel extending reinforcing elements.

[0118] Figure 3 The diagram shows... Figure 2 A second perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary hub including two parallel extending reinforcing elements.

[0119] Figure 4 The diagram shows... Figure 2 and Figure 3 A top view of an embodiment of the exemplary hub shown.

[0120] Figure 5 The illustration shows a top view of another embodiment of an exemplary hub comprising two parallel reinforcing elements and a cabinet disposed on the reinforcing elements.

[0121] Figure 6 The illustration shows a top view of another embodiment of an exemplary hub including two parallel extending reinforcing elements defining the orifice and a hatch for closing the orifice. Detailed Implementation

[0122] Figure 1A wind turbine 100 including a tower 20 is shown. The tower 20 is fixed to the ground by means of a base 104. A nacelle 40 is rotatably mounted at one end of the tower 20 opposite to the ground. The nacelle 40 includes, for example, a generator (not shown), which is coupled to a rotor 110 via a gearbox (not shown). The rotor 110 includes three (wind turbine) rotor blades 101, 102, and 103 arranged on a rotor hub 112, which is connected to a rotor shaft (not shown).

[0123] During operation, rotor 110 is configured to rotate by airflow, such as wind, which interacts with blades 101, 102, and 103 to generate forces acting on the blades 101, 102, and 103. This rotational motion is transmitted to a generator via a drive system, which specifically includes a rotor shaft and a gearbox. The generator converts the mechanical energy of rotor 110 into electrical energy.

[0124] The nacelle 40 must rotate into the wind to optimize the energy output of the wind turbine 100. This is achieved through a yaw system (not shown). Furthermore, the pitch angles of the rotor blades 101, 102, and 103 must be adjusted according to wind speed and other conditions to optimize rotor performance and maintain the turbine's energy output at a desired level. For control and operation of several systems, the wind turbine includes a main controller 30 (turbine controller) and an optional auxiliary control unit 31, which is disposed in the nacelle 40 and communicatively connected to the main controller 30.

[0125] Figures 2 to 4 Several views of a hub 1 are shown, which includes a hub body 2 shaped as, for example, a hollow cylindrical body. The hub body 2 may also be referred to as the housing of the hub.

[0126] The hub body 2 has a first flange or a shaft connecting flange 3, which can be connected to the rotor shaft of the wind turbine, such that the shaft connects the hub 1 or the hub body 2 to the nacelle of the wind turbine.

[0127] The hub body 2 has a front end portion 4 opposite to the side of the shaft flange 3. Throughout the description, the first flange 3 or the surrounding portion of the first flange 3 may be interchangeably referred to as the rear end portion 3 of the hub body 2.

[0128] The axis of rotation SS—also known as the axis of rotation of the shaft or hub—can extend from the rear end 3 of the hub body 2 to the front end 4 relative to the hub 1, such as... Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0129] In addition, around the circumference of the hub 1, one or more second flanges (or blade flanges) 5 are provided between the front end 4 and the rear end 3.

[0130] In the example, three second flanges 5 are illustrated, arranged regularly around the circumference of hub 1.

[0131] Here, "regularly" means that these second flanges are arranged symmetrically along the circumference, wherein each of the second flanges 5 has a uniform distance between it. For example, if there are three second flanges corresponding to three rotor blades, the angular distance between two adjacent flanges is exactly 120 degrees.

[0132] Each flange can have a circular (e.g., annular) shape.

[0133] The blade flange 5 supports the rotor blades via blade bearings. The blade bearings facilitate the rotation or pitch of each blade about the central axis of the corresponding second flange.

[0134] The bearings of the blades are usually arranged and fixed to the blade flange 5 by bolts.

[0135] Therefore, the load acting on the blade is transferred to the second flange 5, and then to the hub 1.

[0136] The second flange region 6 of the second flange 5 is an inner circumferential region defined, surrounded, or enclosed by the second flange 5. For example, the second flange region 6 may be defined or surrounded by the periphery 6a of the second flange 5.

[0137] The second flange region 6 can define two opposite points, such as two points with opposite diameters, that face each other along the second flange region 6.

[0138] According to the implementation, these two points can be points that are roughly defined along the axis of rotation SS or points opposite to a diameter that is roughly coincident with or collinear with the axis of rotation.

[0139] According to a non-limiting exemplary implementation, in Figures 2 to 6 Two reinforcing elements 7 are depicted. To improve load distribution, the two reinforcing elements are arranged in at least one of the second flanges 5 and located between two points in the flange region 6.

[0140] At these two points, each reinforcing element 7 is securely abutted against the second flange 5 via the joint 8.

[0141] In this example, the two reinforcing elements 7 in the second flange region extend primarily along the length of the rotation axis SS, meaning they extend from the front end 4 to the rear end 3.

[0142] When viewed from the side, it can be seen that the plane of the reinforcing element 7 does not extend completely parallel to the axis SS, but rather extends at an angle to the axis. This inclination may be due to the tilt of the second flange 5 relative to the cone angle of the axis SS. However, when viewed from the top... Figure 2At that time, it can be seen that the reinforcing element 7 extends along the axis SS.

[0143] Furthermore, in an alternative embodiment, when viewed from above, the reinforcing element 7 may extend obliquely relative to the axis SS, for example, at a 90-degree angle relative to the axis SS. However, a reinforcing element 7 extending along the extension direction of the axis SS may be considered a preferred embodiment.

[0144] According to one embodiment, at least a portion, such as an edge portion, of the two reinforcing elements extends parallel or substantially parallel to the axis of rotation SS, and therefore also extends parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

[0145] According to another embodiment, the edge portions of one or two reinforcing elements extend obliquely relative to the axis of rotation SS. However, at least two reinforcing elements may not intersect at any point within the second flange region 6.

[0146] According to another embodiment, the edge portions of one or both reinforcing elements have a non-linear profile, such as a curved profile (characterized by a given radius of curvature). For example, as... Figure 4 As depicted, each reinforcing element 7 is defined by a linear edge portion (near the axis of rotation) and an opposite nonlinear (e.g., curved) edge portion. The nonlinear edge portion may be advantageous in providing variable properties along the range of the reinforcing element 7, including but not limited to mechanical properties (e.g., stiffness), while improving other effects such as castability, material optimization, etc.

[0147] The nonlinear edge portion can also allow the reinforcing element to have a variable width along its extension direction.

[0148] According to an implementation, the non-linear (e.g., curved) edge portion of one of the reinforcing elements may be geometrically different from the non-linear (e.g., curved) edge portions of the other reinforcing elements. This may result in a geometric asymmetry between the two reinforcing elements 7 about the axis SS.

[0149] Furthermore, an opening 10 is provided between each of the two reinforcing elements 7 and the periphery 6a of the second flange region for accessing the blade from the hub body 2 through the flange 5.

[0150] Furthermore, due to the aforementioned geometric asymmetry about the axis of rotation SS, during blade assembly, the opening 10 defined by the corresponding curved edge portions of the two reinforcing elements will close or seal off different numbers of blade root end bolts.

[0151] According to the implementation, the nonlinear (e.g., curved) edge portion (defining the opening) can be selected such that the nonlinear range (e.g., bending length) of the nonlinear edge portion is minimized. This can lead to material and design optimization of the reinforcing elements near the front and rear regions of the hub, resulting in better stiffness in these regions.

[0152] In addition to the opening 10, there is another recess 11 in the central part between the two reinforcing elements 7 for additional access or for arranging elements such as cabinets used for electronic devices as described above.

[0153] In other words, the spacing or gap between the two reinforcing elements is configured as an opening 11 for arranging the components.

[0154] In addition, such as Figures 2 to 4 As shown, each of the two reinforcing elements has a mounting device 9 arranged symmetrically about the axis for arranging the pitch actuator (not shown). Therefore, a separate pitch actuator support flange (or bracket) is omitted.

[0155] A failure of the pitch actuator located in one of the setting devices can be remedied by transferring the pitch actuator to another setting device or by providing a second pitch actuator in the second setting device.

[0156] In addition, several other geometric shapes and combinations are possible.

[0157] Figure 5 Another implementation method that is substantially similar to the implementation method explained above is shown.

[0158] In addition, in this embodiment, a component 12 is provided on the reinforcing element 7, which may be, for example, a cabinet 12 for electrical installations.

[0159] Furthermore, component 12 forms a web that reinforces the mechanical connection of element 7, thereby improving the stiffness and mechanical stability of the arrangement structure.

[0160] Component 12 can be accessed through orifice 11, which can also be made of, for example Figure 6 The hatch 13 shown is closed. The hatch 13 may be hinged to the reinforcing element 7, or may be movably connected to the reinforcing element 7 via a suitable mechanism.

[0161] According to an embodiment, the orifice 11 allows several operations to be performed with respect to the component 12. For example, the orifice allows the component to be raised or lowered relative to the orifice, such as lowering the component from inside the hub into inside the blade. The orifice 11 also facilitates the assembly or securing, inspection, repair, replacement, reorientation, and repositioning of the component or parts associated with the component.

[0162] Component 12 may be, for example, a component associated with the following: a pitch system; or a hatch; or an entry device similar to a ramp or track for a transport vehicle or for light machinery with wheels; or a component for transferring components, such as a lifting mechanism for transferring the pitch actuator from one setting to another in the event of a failure at a certain location; or a platform for connecting two reinforcing elements, etc.

[0163] In another embodiment, at least one reinforcing element is arranged in a plane different from the plane of at least one other reinforcing element.

[0164] In other words, at least two different reinforcing elements are arranged in two different planes, for example, in a first plane and a second plane. The first reinforcing element extending along the first plane is configured to reinforce a first region, for example, the second flange region 6. Furthermore, the second reinforcing element extending along a second plane different from the first plane is configured to reinforce a second region, for example, the intersection between the second flange region 6 and the hub body (housing portion) 2, or the entire hub body (housing portion) remote from the second flange region 6.

[0165] According to the implementation method, the first plane and the second plane may be parallel or non-parallel.

[0166] List of reference numerals

[0167] 1,112 hubs

[0168] 2 hub body

[0169] 3. Rear end or first flange or shaft flange

[0170] 4. Front end

[0171] 5. Second flange or blade flange

[0172] 6. Flange region of the second flange

[0173] 6a Periphery of the second flange

[0174] 7 reinforcing elements

[0175] 8 joints

[0176] 9. Setting device

[0177] 10 openings

[0178] 11-hole

[0179] 12 components, cabinet

[0180] 13 cabin doors

[0181] 20 towers

[0182] 30, 31 controllers

[0183] 40 cabins

[0184] 100 wind turbine

[0185] Rotor blades 101, 102, and 103

[0186] 104 bases

[0187] 110 rotor

[0188] SS axis axis / rotation axis

[0189] PP axis perpendicular to the shaft axis

Claims

1. A hub (1) for a rotor (110) of a wind turbine (100), the hub (1) comprising: Hub body (2), the hub body (2) comprising: The first flange (3) is configured to attach the hub body to the rotor shaft of the wind turbine, and At least one second flange (5) configured to support rotor blades, the at least one second flange defining a second flange region (6) of the hub body. At least two reinforcing elements (7) extend within at least a portion of the second flange region, each reinforcing element abutting the hub body at at least two joints (8). Each reinforcing element extends along the length direction (SS) of the rotor shaft.

2. The hub according to claim 1, wherein, Each reinforcing element extends generally along the extension direction (SS) of the rotor shaft, the extension direction being defined between the first flange and the front end of the hub body opposite to the first flange.

3. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The at least two reinforcing elements are arranged in a mirror-symmetric manner with respect to at least one of the first plane and the axis of rotation (SS) of the rotor shaft.

4. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The geometry of at least one reinforcing element is asymmetrical with respect to at least one of the second plane and the axis (PP) that is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction of the rotor shaft.

5. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: Each reinforcing element includes one, two, or more segments along the length direction, and The thickness of each segment is constant along the length direction.

6. The hub according to claim 5, wherein, The intersection of two adjacent segments of two or more of the said segments includes a transition portion, which is constructed as a step, a tapered portion, a rounded corner, or a combination thereof.

7. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: At least one reinforcing element includes at least one edge portion having an arcuate profile.

8. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, At least one reinforcing element includes at least one mounting device for supporting a pitch actuator for pitching the rotor blades.

9. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The cross-section of at least one reinforcing element includes a central portion with a constant thickness and at least one edge portion, the edge portion being configured to have a variable thickness along a width portion perpendicular to the length direction of at least one of the reinforcing elements.

10. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The periphery of the second flange region and at least one of the reinforcing elements define the opening (10).

11. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, At least two of the reinforcing elements define an orifice (11) between the at least two reinforcing elements.

12. The hub according to claim 11, wherein, At least two of the reinforcing elements are configured to support the component (12) that spans the orifice.

13. The hub according to claim 12, wherein, The component is configured to structurally support at least two of the reinforcing elements.

14. The hub according to claim 11, wherein, At least two of the reinforcing elements are designed to support the hatch (13), wherein the hatch is arranged to provide an entrance between the hub region and the blade region through the orifice.

15. The hub according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, At least one reinforcing element is arranged in a plane different from the plane of at least one other reinforcing element.

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