Telescopic lattice tower and method for lifting a telescopic lattice tower

Abstract

The invention relates to a telescopic lattice tower of a wind turbine, comprising at least a lower tower assembly, an upper tower assembly, and a lifting system for raising and lowering the upper tower assembly. The lifting system comprises at least one guide element, two guide frames, a stabilization system, and a plurality of temporarily deployable first strand jacks. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for lifting a telescopic lattice tower according to the invention and the use of the telescopic lattice tower.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a telescopic lattice mast tower and a method for lifting the telescopic lattice mast tower.

[0002] To increase the economic yield of wind farms, it makes sense to take advantage of the more uniform wind conditions at altitudes of 300 m by integrating a second level into existing wind farms.

[0003] A variety of different tower masts for wind turbines with heights over 100 m are known from the state of the art, for example, so-called hybrid towers with an upper tubular tower section and a lower lattice-mast-like tower section are known from DE 10 2015 115 634 A1, DE 10 2005 047 961 A1, and DE 10 2004 020 480 B4. The actual achievable height of such towers is limited by the availability of appropriate lifting devices, such as cranes, and heights of 300 m are practically unattainable.

[0004] EP 3 728 765 B1 discloses a lattice mast as a tower for a wind turbine, comprising a first and a second component, which is guided within the first component. For this purpose, the first component has rails for guiding a guide element of the second component. Furthermore, the two components each have four tubular supports, which are connected to each other by means of anchor plates and allow the second component to be retracted into the first component.

[0005] DE 10 2008 022 654 A1 discloses a method and a device for assembling a wind turbine, wherein structural modules to be assembled are lifted to the assembly height by means of a lifting gondola guided on an auxiliary mast and are held there for assembly.

[0006] The object of the invention is therefore to provide a telescopic lattice mast tower, in particular with a hub height of 300 m, which can be erected using currently available crane capacities.

[0007] According to the invention, the object is achieved by a telescopic lattice mast tower having the features according to independent claim 1 and a method for lifting the lattice mast tower according to the invention according to independent claim 9. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0008] A first aspect of the invention relates to a telescopic lattice tower comprising at least a lower tower assembly, an upper tower assembly, and a lifting system for raising and lowering the upper tower assembly. The lifting system comprises at least one guide element, two guide frames, a stabilization system, and a plurality of temporarily deployable first strand jacks.

[0009] Such a lattice tower can advantageously have a final hub height of at least 300 m in its fully installed state. Furthermore, such a lattice tower is easily transportable to its installation site and can be raised to its final hub height at the installation site. Another advantage of such a lattice tower is that it allows for easier maintenance, replacement, and repair of components at a hub height that is lower than the final hub height by lowering the lattice tower.

[0010] Telescopic in the sense of the invention means that the lattice mast tower can be changed in its height along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower by raising or lowering parts of the lattice mast tower, e.g. by raising or lowering the upper tower assembly using the lifting system. Raising is also referred to as the lifting process and lowering as the lowering process. The telescopic lattice mast tower therefore has at least one lowered state with a minimum height or extension along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower and a raised or fully installed state with a maximum height along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower. It is advantageous if the upper tower assembly is designed such that, in the lowered state, the upper tower assembly can be completely arranged within the lower tower assembly. In the raised state, the upper tower assembly is arranged on the lower tower assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments, the lower tower assembly is designed to be connectable to a foundation. The foundation serves to anchor the telescopic lattice tower to the ground and can be designed in a known manner, e.g., as a compact flat or pile foundation or as a combined pile-slab foundation. In other embodiments, the lower tower assembly is designed to be connectable to individual corner foundations at its four corner posts. The lower tower assembly is connected to the foundation using connecting elements known to those skilled in the art, e.g., corner posts made of L-profiles and with concrete-in base anchors, a welded assembly cast into the foundation, e.g., a base anchor.

[0012] In some embodiments, the guide element is designed as a lattice element and has load-bearing points. Load-bearing points within the meaning of the invention refer to attachment points for load-bearing devices, e.g., designed as load-bearing eyes. In further embodiments, the load-bearing points are arranged at the lower end of the guide element. The lower end of the guide element refers to the end of the guide element that is furthest from the hub along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower.

[0013] In further embodiments, the guide element is designed as a lattice element with a polygonal, in particular quadrangular, cross-section. The cross-section extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower. In further embodiments, the guide element is arranged within the lower tower assembly, i.e. the guide element is surrounded by the lower tower assembly. This advantageously enables telescoping, i.e. changing the height of the lattice mast tower. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the dimensions of the cross-section of the guide element are smaller than the cross-section of the lower tower assembly, so that the upper tower assembly can be arranged within the lower tower assembly.

[0014] In further embodiments, the upper tower assembly can be temporarily mounted on the guide element, preferably on the upper end of the guide element, and forms a so-called lifting assembly for the duration of the lifting and / or lowering process. The upper tower assembly can advantageously be mounted on the guide element for the duration of the lifting and / or lowering process. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the upper tower assembly and / or the guide element have mounting means, which are preferably arranged at the upper end of the guide element and / or at the lower end of the upper tower assembly. The lifting assembly is advantageously arranged within the lower tower assembly. This lifting assembly is lifted out of the lower tower assembly to reach the final hub height or the raised / fully installed state.

[0015] In further embodiments, the guide element has a height, ie an extension along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower, in the range of 45 m to 50 m.

[0016] The guide frames are arranged within the lower tower assembly along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower, preferably in the upper region of the lower tower assembly, and are firmly connected to the lower tower assembly. In some embodiments, the connection is made by means of a screw and welded connection, so that the guide frames can advantageously be integrated into the infill of a tower segment. The two guide frames form a so-called support and sliding zone. This advantageously prevents the lifting assembly from tipping during the raising and / or lowering of the telescopic lattice mast tower. Furthermore, at least one region of the lifting assembly is advantageously arranged within the support and sliding zone formed by the two guide frames at all times during the raising and / or lowering. At the start of the lifting process, for example, the upper tower assembly mounted on the guide element is within the support and sliding zone orarranged within the two guide frames, while at the end of the lifting process, the guide element is arranged within the support and sliding zone. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the guide frames are designed such that the lifting assembly can be moved through the guide frames during lifting and / or lowering.

[0017] In further embodiments, the guide frames have a polygonal, particularly octagonal, cross-section. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the cross-section of the guide frames are designed such that the guide frames can be arranged both within the lower tower assembly and the lifting assembly can be moved through the guide frames.

[0018] In further embodiments, the guide frames are arranged spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower. In embodiments, the two guide frames are connected to one another via webs running along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower and form a type of cage through which the lifting assembly is moved during raising and / or lowering. In further embodiments, the guide frames have sliding devices that advantageously enable the lifting assembly to slide through the support and sliding zone during raising and / or lowering. Such sliding devices can be designed, for example, as sliding jaws. In embodiments, the sliding devices are located on the inner sides of the guide frames, which face the lifting assembly during raising and / or lowering.

[0019] For the purposes of this application, temporarily deployable first strand jacks refer to first strand jacks that are only used temporarily during the lifting and / or lowering process of the telescopic lattice tower and are not part of the fully erected lattice tower. The same applies to the further use of "temporary" in this application and refers to the use or assembly of the corresponding components during the lifting and / or lowering process and concerns the first strand jacks, the temporary assembly of the upper tower assembly on the guide element, temporarily deployable additional weights, the temporary connection of the four movably mounted support arms to the platform of the stabilization system, and the temporary installation of the multiple lifting and lowering devices on the platform of the stabilization system. Advantageously, the first strand jacks serve to lift and / or lower the lifting assembly.In some embodiments, the strand jacks each have a hydraulic unit and a control unit. In other embodiments, the majority of the first strand jacks have a common hydraulic unit and / or a common control unit. In other embodiments, the temporarily deployable first strand jacks are arranged on the upper of the two guide frames during the lifting and / or lowering process. The upper of the two guide frames is arranged closer towards the upper end of the lower tower assembly. The strand jacks usually also include strand guides plus a holder. In some embodiments, the strand guides are guided downwards along the lattice mast tower, preferably along the lower tower assembly. “Down” here means in the direction of the installation surface of the lattice mast tower. In other embodiments, the strands are guided downwards along the corner posts of the lower tower assembly.

[0020] In some embodiments, the lifting system comprises four first strand jacks. In further embodiments, the first strand jacks each have a lifting range in the range of 120 m to 180 m. In further embodiments, the first jacks each have a capacity in the range of 200 t to 250 t. In further embodiments, the majority of the temporary first strand jacks are arranged evenly distributed along the guide frame, preferably in the corners of the guide frame.

[0021] In preferred embodiments, the upper tower assembly is designed to be connectable to a rotor-nacelle assembly.

[0022] In some embodiments, the upper end of the upper tower assembly is designed to be connectable to a rotor-nacelle assembly. For this purpose, the upper tower assembly comprises connecting means known to those skilled in the art. The upper end of the upper tower assembly refers to the end of the upper tower assembly that, in the fully installed state of the lattice tower, is furthest along the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower from the ground on which the lattice tower is erected.

[0023] In some embodiments, the upper tower assembly has a connecting piece at its upper end. Advantageously, this connecting piece allows the rotor-nacelle assembly to be connected to the upper tower assembly. Such connecting pieces are known to those skilled in the art.

[0024] In preferred embodiments, the lifting system further comprises temporarily usable additional weights for center of gravity optimization.

[0025] The additional weights advantageously enable balancing or centering of the center of gravity of the telescopic lattice tower and dynamic stabilization during the lifting and / or lowering process, especially when a rotor-nacelle assembly is installed on the upper tower assembly prior to raising or lowering the telescopic lattice tower. Furthermore, installing the additional weights advantageously positions the center of gravity of the entire system on the longitudinal axis of the tower. Furthermore, the tilt stability of the upper tower assembly is increased by lowering the center of gravity.

[0026] In some embodiments, the additional weights are designed as crane weights known to those skilled in the art. In further embodiments, the additional weight is designed as a third strand jack. This engages the lower part of the telescopic lattice tower and is anchored to the foundation of the high-altitude wind tower. The third strand jack applies a uniform force counter to the first strand jacks, thus simulating a weight.

[0027] In preferred embodiments, the temporarily deployable additional weights comprise a first and a second additional weight.

[0028] This advantageously shifts the center of gravity and reduces the distance between the load-bearing point and the center of gravity (center of gravity height), particularly when a rotor-nacelle assembly is installed on the upper tower assembly prior to raising and / or lowering. Another advantageous effect is that the first additional weight shifts the center of gravity toward the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower while simultaneously lowering the center of gravity. The second additional weight advantageously lowers the center of gravity further. The center of gravity refers to the center of mass of the telescopic lattice tower, which is located above the load-bearing points when lowered.

[0029] For example, the center of gravity of a telescopic lattice tower with a final hub height of 300 m in the fully installed state and with a rotor-nacelle assembly with a typical mass of 200 t installed on the upper tower assembly is located approximately 80 m above the load-bearing points in the lowered state. Using the example of such a telescopic lattice tower with a final hub height of 300 m and a rotor-nacelle assembly with a mass of 200 t already installed on the upper tower assembly in the lowered state, the first temporarily deployable additional weight has a mass of 120 t and is arranged and temporarily fixed in the guide element approximately 7 m behind the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower, advantageously on the side of the longitudinal axis opposite the rotor assembly. The rotor assembly, as a component of the rotor-nacelle assembly, is located in front of the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower.The temporarily deployed additional weight advantageously lowers the center of gravity to approximately 68 m above the load-bearing points and raises the telescopic lattice tower by 60 m. The second temporarily deployed additional weight, in this case, has a mass of 100 t and is arranged and temporarily fixed below the guide element on the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower. This advantageously shifts the center of gravity to a height of 56 m above the load-bearing points. Furthermore, the constraining forces previously exerted due to the off-center center of gravity are eliminated.

[0030] In preferred embodiments, the lower and upper tower assemblies each comprise a plurality of tower assembly segments in a lattice construction.

[0031] This advantageously allows hub heights of at least 300 m for the telescopic lattice tower. Another advantage is that the production of such a lattice tower is simplified.

[0032] In some embodiments, the individual tower assembly segments are connected to one another and form the lower and upper tower assemblies, respectively. The connection can be made using any suitable connecting means known to those skilled in the art, for example, by means of a slip-resistant, preloaded screw connection consisting of several connecting plates and screw assemblies arranged in a specific pattern. A screw assembly consists of a screw, a nut, and two washers.

[0033] In further embodiments, the tower assemblies each have a polygonal, preferably quadrangular, cross-section. The cross-section refers to the dimensions in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower.

[0034] In some embodiments, the individual tower assembly segments differ from one another in their dimensions. Dimensions of the tower assembly segments are, for example, the height, i.e. the extension along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower, and the dimensions of the cross-section, i.e. the dimensions in a plane perpendicular to the height. It can therefore be advantageous for the tower assembly segments of the lower tower assembly in particular to have different cross-sections and heights. In further embodiments, the individual tower assembly segments of the lower tower assembly have a varying cross-section along the height of the respective tower assembly segment. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve a truncated pyramid-like shape of the lower tower assembly along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower, which offers increased structural safety and stability.The dimensions of the respective tower assembly segments vary in such a way that a smooth transition is achieved between the individual tower assembly segments forming the lower tower assembly.

[0035] In embodiments, the tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly have different cross-sections and heights. In further embodiments, some of the tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly have the same cross-section. Advantageously, these are the upper tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly, i.e. the tower assembly segments that form the upper end of the upper tower assembly, which is designed to be connectable to a rotor-nacelle assembly. In further embodiments, the first tower assembly segment of the upper tower assembly, which in the fully installed state of the lattice mast tower is arranged directly on the lower tower assembly, is designed as a coupling piece. The coupling piece advantageously enables a stable connection of the lower and upper tower assemblies in the fully installed state.

[0036] In further embodiments, the lower tower assembly comprises five tower assembly segments, the cross-section and height of which vary among each other and the cross-section of which varies along the individual tower assembly segments such that the lower tower assembly advantageously forms a truncated pyramid.

[0037] In embodiments, the upper tower assembly comprises twelve tower assembly segments. The first six tower assembly segments have a cross-section that varies along their height, so that they advantageously represent an extension of the truncated pyramid-shaped lower tower assembly. The subsequent six tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly have the same cross-sectional dimensions in embodiments. In further embodiments, the tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly differ from one another in terms of their height.

[0038] The dimensions of the tower assembly segments of the upper and lower tower assemblies are selected such that, when lowered, the upper tower assembly can be arranged completely within the lower tower assembly.

[0039] In further embodiments, the individual tower assembly segments each have four corner posts that run along the height of the respective tower assembly segment or along the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower. The corner posts are each formed from at least four L-shaped profiles that are detachably connected to one another. Each leg of an L-shaped profile is detachably connected to a leg of another L-shaped profile. This advantageously forms corner posts with a cross-shaped cross-section. In further embodiments, spacer plates are arranged between the legs of interconnected L-shaped profiles. In further embodiments, the four outer edges of the cross-shaped cross-section of the corner posts form sliding surfaces. The outer edges of the cross-shaped cross-section refer to the outward-facing surfaces of the four arms that form the cross-shaped cross-section.

[0040] In preferred embodiments, the two guide frames are arranged at a distance of 10 m to 30 m from each other.

[0041] These advantageously form the support and sliding zone, which enables stabilization during lifting and / or lowering and prevents tipping of the upper tower assembly during lifting and / or lowering.

[0042] According to the invention, the stabilization system comprises at least one platform, four movably mounted support arms, and a plurality of lifting and lowering devices, wherein the four movably mounted support arms are each temporarily connected to the platform at their lower end by a hinge and each have a guide device at their upper end, and wherein the four movably mounted support arms are connected to one another and to the lifting and lowering devices arranged on the platform via tension struts or steel cables as Y- or V-shaped connectors.

[0043] Advantageously, such a stabilization system enables the stabilization of the lattice tower during the lifting and / or lowering process and prevents tipping and / or canting of the upper tower assembly, especially in the case of sudden loads, such as winches.

[0044] In embodiments, the platform is formed by one of the two guide frames, preferably the upper of the two guide frames, and is thus part of the support and sliding zone.

[0045] In further embodiments, the support arms are designed as lattice-type connectors and, when fully installed, serve to connect the lower tower assembly to the upper tower assembly. Advantageously, the support arms stabilize the upper tower assembly during the lifting and / or lowering process and slide along the upper tower assembly with their upper end. For this purpose, the movable support arms are each temporarily connected to the platform at their lower end with a hinge such that the support arms can tilt toward or away from the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower during the lifting and / or lowering process. The hinges thus enable the support arms to rotate about an axis in the plane of the platform.

[0046] In embodiments, the plurality of lifting and lowering devices are temporarily installed on the platform.

[0047] In preferred embodiments, the guide device is designed as a guide block with a sliding coating and / or as a guide roller with a sliding coating.

[0048] This advantageously reduces friction and allows the support arms to slide along the outer edges or sliding surfaces of the corner posts of the upper tower assembly during lifting and / or lowering. Furthermore, it prevents damage to any corrosion-protection coatings on the corner posts.

[0049] In embodiments, a guide block and / or guide roller is configured to have two running surfaces with sliding linings, wherein the running surfaces are positioned at an angle of 90° to each other. In this case, one running surface of the guide block and / or guide roller is connected to a sliding surface of a corner post during the lifting and / or lowering process, enabling the support arms to slide along the upper tower assembly.

[0050] In preferred embodiments, the plurality of lifting and lowering devices are designed as winches or second strand jacks.

[0051] Advantageously, the second strand jacks serve to stabilize the lifting assembly during lifting and / or lowering. In some embodiments, the stabilization system comprises four lifting and lowering devices configured as second strand jacks. In further embodiments, the majority of the lifting and lowering devices are arranged evenly on the platform.

[0052] In further embodiments, the second strand jacks each have a lift in the range of 20 m to 30 m. In some embodiments, the second strand jacks each have a capacity in the range of 40 t to 80 t.

[0053] In further embodiments, the first and second strand jacks have a common hydraulic unit and a common control unit. In further embodiments, the second strand jacks each have a hydraulic unit and a control unit. In further embodiments, the second strand jacks have a common hydraulic unit and / or a common control unit.

[0054] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for lifting a telescopic lattice tower comprising at least the following steps: a) providing a telescopic lattice mast tower according to the invention in the lowered state, wherein the upper tower assembly of the telescopic lattice mast is temporarily mounted on the guide element and the upper tower assembly and the guide element are arranged entirely within the lower tower assembly, and the stabilization system is installed on the lower tower assembly such that the platform of the stabilization system is formed by one of the guide frames; b) Mounting the plurality of first temporarily deployable strand jacks on the platform of the stabilisation system and connecting the strands to load-bearing points on the guide element, c) Lifting the upper tower assembly, d) Connecting the upper and lower tower assemblies, e) Dismantling the guide element and lowering the guide element within the lower tower assembly to a final position, f) Dismantling the first temporary strand jacks.

[0055] Advantageously, such a method enables the lifting of a telescopic lattice tower according to the invention to a hub height of at least 300 m without complex crane technology currently unavailable for such hub heights. Furthermore, such a method advantageously enables the stabilization and optimization of the center of gravity of the lattice tower throughout the entire lifting process.

[0056] In embodiments, the lifting process is carried out in the order a), b), c), d), e), f).

[0057] In embodiments, in step a), a lattice mast tower is provided, the lower and upper tower assemblies of which are each formed from a plurality of tower assembly segments in lattice construction, which, when connected to one another by suitable connecting means, form the lower and upper tower assemblies, respectively.

[0058] In embodiments, the platform of the stabilization system is formed by the upper of the two guide frames of the provided lattice mast tower.

[0059] In further embodiments, the stabilization system is installed in step a) by installing four movably mounted support arms and several lifting and lowering devices on the platform of the stabilization system. In embodiments, the four movably mounted support arms are temporarily connected to the platform of the stabilization system at their lower ends by a hinge, and the four movably mounted support arms are connected to each other and to the lifting and lowering devices arranged on the platform of the stabilization system via tension struts or steel cables as Y- or V-shaped connectors. In further embodiments, lifting and lowering devices designed as winches or second strand jacks are installed on the platform of the stabilization system.

[0060] In embodiments, a telescopic lattice tower with a rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly is provided in step a). In further embodiments, a rotor-nacelle assembly is installed on the upper tower assembly after step a). In further embodiments, a rotor-nacelle assembly is installed after step e).

[0061] In further embodiments, in step b), four temporarily deployable first strand jacks are mounted on the platform of the stabilization system and the strands of the temporarily deployable first strand jacks are connected to the load-bearing points on the guide element.

[0062] In further embodiments, in step d) the upper and lower tower assemblies are connected to each other by means of the support arms of the stabilization system.

[0063] In embodiments, in step e), after the lattice mast tower has been raised to its fully installed state, the guide element is dismantled and lowered within the lattice mast tower or within the lower tower assembly of the lattice mast tower to an end position. In further embodiments, the lowering of the guide element in step e) takes place using the temporarily deployed first strand jack. An end position here means a position of the guide element within the lattice mast tower in its fully installed state, in which the guide element is arranged and fixed within the lower tower assembly and is available for lowering processes due to maintenance and / or repair. In embodiments, the end position of the guide element is on the installation surface of the lattice mast tower, and the guide element is fixed to the installation surface by a foundation.

[0064] In embodiments, in step f) the first strand jacks are dismantled from the platform of the stabilization system.

[0065] In further embodiments, in step f) or after step f), the second strand jacks or winches and the tension struts or steel cables of the stabilization system are dismantled.

[0066] In embodiments, it may be advantageous if the lifting in step c) takes place in several sub-steps, for example, two sub-steps. In further embodiments, for example, a lifting takes place in a first sub-step c1) and a lifting in a second sub-step c2). This is particularly advantageous if, in step a), a telescopic lattice mast tower with a rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly is provided, or if a rotor-nacelle assembly is installed on the upper tower assembly after step a) and before step c). The large mass of the rotor-nacelle assembly already installed on the upper tower assembly requires a lowering and shifting of the center of gravity of the lattice mast tower for a tilt-proof and stable lifting or lowering process. This can be achieved by additional steps comprising the insertion and fixing of first and / or second temporarily deployable additional weights.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, in a further step, a rotor-nacelle assembly is mounted on an upper end of the upper tower assembly.

[0068] In embodiments, a connecting piece is mounted on the upper end of the upper tower assembly, which enables the connection of the rotor-nacelle assembly to the upper tower assembly.

[0069] In further embodiments, the rotor-nacelle assembly is mounted on the upper end of the upper tower assembly using a tower-top crane, as is known to those skilled in the art. A tower-top crane refers to a lifting device for lifting the rotor-nacelle assembly, which is installed on the upper tower assembly.

[0070] In embodiments, the rotor-nacelle assembly is installed after step c), particularly after step d). This advantageously makes the lifting process more stable overall, since the weight of the rotor-nacelle assembly does not have to be lifted. Furthermore, this advantageously eliminates additional process steps for inserting and securing temporarily deployable additional weights, or reduces their mass.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the first temporarily deployable strand jacks are mounted on a guide frame installed at the upper end of the lower tower assembly.

[0072] In embodiments, the first strand jacks are installed on the upper of the two guide frames of the lattice tower, with the upper guide frame forming the platform of the stabilization system.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the strands of the temporary first strand jacks are guided along the lower tower assembly downwards towards the installation surface of the lattice tower.

[0074] This advantageously allows the strands to be wound up on the ground, the installation surface of the lattice mast tower.

[0075] In embodiments, the strands of the temporary first strand jacks are guided downwards along the corner posts of the lower tower assembly, towards the installation surface of the lattice tower.

[0076] In preferred embodiments, the method for lifting a telescopic lattice mast tower additionally comprises a step g) for inserting a first temporarily insertable additional weight and / or an additional step h) for inserting a second temporarily insertable additional weight.

[0077] This advantageously enables balancing or centering of the center of gravity of the telescopic lattice tower and dynamic stabilization during the lifting and / or lowering process, in particular if a rotor-nacelle assembly is already installed on the upper tower assembly prior to lifting in step c) or c1) or if a telescopic lattice tower is provided with a rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly in step a).

[0078] In embodiments, step g) takes place after step b) and before step c). Thus, in step g), for a telescopic lattice mast tower with a final hub height of 300 m and a rotor-nacelle assembly with a mass of 200 t installed on the upper tower assembly, a first temporarily deployable additional weight with a mass of 120 t can be arranged and temporarily fixed in the guide element approximately 7 m behind the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower, advantageously on the side of the longitudinal axis opposite the rotor assembly as part of the rotor-nacelle assembly. This advantageously lowers the center of gravity and shifts it onto the tower axis, enabling stable, tip-proof lifting in step c) or c1) and c2). Thus, in embodiments, the upper tower assembly is advantageously lifted by 40 m to 70 m via the temporarily deployed first strand jacks in a first sub-step c1).

[0079] In further embodiments, it may further be advantageous if, in step h), a second temporarily deployable additional weight is arranged and temporarily fixed below the guide element on the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower. This advantageously further lowers the center of gravity and enables further tilt-stable lifting of the lattice mast tower to a final hub height of at least 300 m. In further embodiments, step h) is carried out after the lifting in a first sub-step and before the lifting in a further, e.g., a second, sub-step c2). Thus, in step h), for a telescopic lattice mast tower with a final hub height of 300 m and a rotor-nacelle assembly with a mass of 200 t installed on the upper tower assembly, a second temporarily deployable additional weight with a mass of 100 t can be arranged and temporarily fixed below the guide element on the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower.This advantageously lowers the center of gravity even further and makes it possible to raise the lattice tower to a final hub height of at least 300 m.

[0080] In embodiments, step g) and step h) are carried out, wherein step g) is carried out after step b) and before step c) or c1), and step g) is followed by a lifting in a first sub-step c1), followed by step h) and then the lifting in a second sub-step c2).

[0081] In further embodiments, in step f) or after step f), the first and second temporarily usable additional weights that may be used are dismantled.

[0082] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of a telescopic lattice mast tower according to the invention in a wind turbine, in particular an onshore wind turbine, for generating electrical power.

[0083] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for lowering a telescopic lattice tower comprising at least the following steps: i. Providing a telescopic lattice tower according to the invention in the fully installed state, wherein the upper tower assembly is mounted on and connected to the lower tower assembly, and the guide element is lowered into its final position within the lower tower assembly, ii. Mounting the first temporary strand jacks on the stabilization system platform formed by one of the guide frames and connecting the strands to load-bearing points on the guide element, iii. Lifting the guide element from its final position and temporarily mounting the upper tower assembly on the guide element, iv. Disassembly of the upper and lower tower assemblies, v. Installation of the stabilization system on the lower tower assembly, vi. Lowering the upper tower assembly, vii. Dismantling of the first temporarily deployable strand jacks.

[0084] Advantageously, such a method enables the lowering of a telescopic lattice tower according to the invention from a hub height of at least 300 m without the need for complex crane technology, which is currently unavailable for such hub heights. Furthermore, such a method advantageously enables the stabilization and optimization of the center of gravity of the lattice tower throughout the entire lowering process.

[0085] In embodiments, the lowering process is performed in the order i), ii), iii), iv), v), vi), vii).

[0086] In embodiments, in step i), a lattice tower is provided which has a lower and an upper tower assembly, wherein the lower and the upper tower assembly are each formed from a plurality of tower assembly segments in lattice construction, which, when connected to one another by suitable connecting means, form the lower and the upper tower assembly, respectively.

[0087] In further embodiments, a telescopic lattice tower with a rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly is provided in step i). In this case, in embodiments, disassembly of the rotor-nacelle assembly can advantageously take place before step ii), e.g., using a tower top crane. In further embodiments, disassembly of the rotor-nacelle assembly can take place after step vi).

[0088] In embodiments, the platform of the stabilization system is formed by the upper of the two guide frames of the provided lattice mast tower.

[0089] In embodiments, in step ii), four temporarily deployable first strand jacks are mounted on the platform of the stabilization system formed by one of the guide frames, and the strands of the temporarily deployable first strand jacks are connected to the load-bearing points on the guide element.

[0090] In further embodiments, in step iii), the guide element is lifted from its final position within the lower tower assembly of the lattice tower. In further embodiments, the lifting of the guide element in step iii) is carried out by means of the temporarily deployed first strand jacks.

[0091] In further embodiments, in step iv) the upper and lower tower assemblies, which are connected to each other by means of the support arms of the stabilization system, are dismantled.

[0092] In step v), the stabilization system is installed by installing the support arms dismantled in step iv) as four movably mounted support arms and several lifting and lowering devices on the platform of the stabilization system. In embodiments, the four movably mounted support arms are temporarily connected to the platform of the stabilization system at their lower ends with a hinge, and the four movably mounted support arms are connected to each other and to the lifting and lowering devices arranged on the platform of the stabilization system via tension struts or steel cables as Y- or V-shaped connectors. In further embodiments, lifting and lowering devices designed as winches or second strand jacks are installed on the platform of the stabilization system.

[0093] In embodiments, it may be advantageous if the lowering in step vi) takes place in several sub-steps, for example, two sub-steps. Thus, in embodiments, for example, the lowering takes place in a first sub-step vi1) and a second sub-step vi2). This is particularly advantageous if, in step i), a telescopic lattice mast tower with a rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly is provided. The large mass of the rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly requires a shift in the center of gravity of the lattice mast tower for a tilt-proof and stable lowering process. This can be achieved by additional steps comprising the insertion and fixing of first and / or second temporarily deployable additional weights.

[0094] In preferred embodiments, the method for lowering a telescopic lattice mast tower additionally comprises a step viii) for inserting a second temporarily deployable additional weight and / or an additional step ix) for inserting a first temporarily deployable additional weight. This is particularly advantageous when a telescopic lattice mast tower with a rotor-nacelle assembly installed on the upper tower assembly is to be lowered. In the case that a telescopic lattice mast tower with a final hub height of 300 m and a rotor-nacelle assembly with a mass of 200 t installed on the upper tower assembly is to be lowered, in step viii) a second temporarily deployable additional weight with a mass of 100 t is arranged below the guide element on the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower and temporarily fixed.This allows the upper tower assembly of the telescopic lattice mast tower to be lowered by 80 m to 110 m above the temporarily deployed first strand jacks in a first sub-step vi1). It is then further advantageous that, in a further step ix), a first temporarily deployable additional weight is arranged and temporarily fixed in the guide element behind the longitudinal axis of the lattice mast tower, advantageously on the side of the longitudinal axis opposite the rotor assembly as part of the rotor-nacelle assembly. In the case of a lattice tower with a hub height of 300 m and a rotor-nacelle assembly with a mass of 200 t installed on the upper tower assembly, the temporarily deployable second additional weight with a mass of 120 t is arranged and temporarily fixed in the guide element approximately 7 m behind the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower, advantageously on the side of the longitudinal axis opposite the rotor assembly as a component of the rotor-nacelle assembly.This enables further lowering of the lattice mast tower in a second sub-step vi2), so that the lattice mast tower is lowered into its lowered state with minimum height.

[0095] In embodiments, step viii) is performed before step iv). In further embodiments, step ix) is performed after step iii). In embodiments, step viii) involves inserting a second temporarily insertable additional weight and subsequently lowering it in a first sub-step vi1), followed by step ix) inserting a first temporarily insertable additional weight and subsequently lowering it in a second sub-step vi2).

[0096] In further embodiments, in step vii) the first strand jacks are dismantled from the platform of the stabilization system.

[0097] In embodiments, the second strand jacks or winches and the tension struts or steel cables of the stabilization system are dismantled in step vii) or after step vii). In further embodiments, any first and second temporary additional weights that may be used are dismantled in step vii) or after step vii).

[0098] The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated and described, but also encompasses all embodiments having the same effect within the meaning of the invention. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the specifically described combinations of features, but can also be defined by any other combination of specific features of all the individual features disclosed as a whole, provided that the individual features are not mutually exclusive or a specific combination of individual features is not explicitly excluded. Examples of implementation

[0099] The invention will be explained in more detail below using an exemplary embodiment. The exemplary embodiment describes the invention without limiting it.

[0100] The invention is explained in more detail with the aid of drawings. Fig. 1 an embodiment of a lattice mast tower in the overview representation in the front, side and perspective view, Fig. 2 another embodiment of a lattice mast tower, Fig. 3 a stabilization system of an embodiment of a lattice mast tower as a detailed view in the front view, top view and perspective view, Fig. 4 schematically shows different stages of an embodiment of a lifting process for lifting a lattice tower.

[0101] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a telescopic lattice mast tower 1 according to the invention in the fully erected state, from left to right, in a front, side, and perspective view. The lattice mast tower 1 has a lower tower assembly 1.1 and an upper tower assembly 1.2. The lattice mast tower 1 further has a lifting system for raising and lowering the upper tower assembly 1.2. The lifting system comprises at least one guide element 1.3, two guide frames, a stabilization system, and a plurality of temporarily deployable first strand jacks. The lattice mast tower 1 has a rotor-nacelle assembly 1.4, which is designed to be connectable to the upper tower assembly 1.2. The upper tower assembly 1.2 has a connecting piece (not shown) by means of which the upper tower assembly 1.2 is designed to be connectable to the rotor-nacelle assembly 1.4. Also visible are foundations 1.5, with which the lattice tower 1 is fixed to the installation surface, the ground.

[0102] Fig. Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of a lattice tower 1 according to the invention in the fully erected state without the rotor-nacelle assembly. The lower and upper tower assemblies 1.1 and 1.2 are shown, each constructed in a lattice design, and comprising several tower assembly segments 1.1a-1.1e and 1.2a-1.2h, respectively. It can also be seen that the individual tower assembly segments 1.1a to 1.1e have varying cross-sectional dimensions, so that the lower tower assembly 1.1 forms a truncated pyramid. The tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly 1.2a-1.2h are designed such that the lower tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly form an extension of the truncated pyramid of the lower tower assembly 1.1, while the upper tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly 1.2 have the same cross-sectional dimensions. The tower assembly segments of the upper tower assembly 1.2a - 1.2h and the lower tower assembly 1.1a - 1.1e have different dimensions in terms of their height. It can also be seen that the guide element 1.3, in its fully erected state, is arranged and fixed in a final position by a foundation 1.5 on the support surface of the lattice mast tower 1.

[0103] Fig. Figure 3 shows a stabilization system 1.6 of an embodiment of a lattice mast tower 1 as a detailed view, from left to right in the front view, top view, and perspective view. The stabilization system 1.6 comprises at least one platform 1.6a, four movably mounted support arms 1.6b, and several lifting and lowering devices 1.6c. The platform 1.6a is formed by one of the two guide frames 1.7, preferably by the upper of the two guide frames 1.7. The four movably mounted support arms 1.6b are each temporarily connected to the platform 1.6a at their lower end by a hinge 1.6d. At their upper end, the four movably mounted support arms 1.6b each have a guide device 1.6e. The four movably mounted support arms 1.6b are connected to each other and to the lifting and lowering devices 1.6c arranged on the platform 1.6a via tension struts or steel cables as Y-shaped connectors 1.6f.The lifting and lowering devices 1.6c are designed as second strand jacks. The four movably mounted support arms 1.6b serve as connectors for connecting the lower tower assembly 1.1 to the upper tower assembly 1.2 when the lattice tower 1 is fully erected.

[0104] Fig. 4 schematically shows different stages of an embodiment of a lifting process for lifting a lattice tower 1.

[0105] In Fig. Figure 4 (a) shows a lattice tower 1 in the lowered state at the start of the lifting process. The lattice tower 1 has a lower and an upper tower assembly 1.1, 1.2. The upper tower assembly 1.2 is mounted on the guide element 1.3, preferably on the upper end of the guide element, temporarily, i.e., for the duration of the lifting process. The upper tower assembly 1.2, mounted on the guide element 1.3, is thus arranged within the lower tower assembly 1.1 in the lowered state. The lattice tower is provided with a rotor-nacelle assembly 1.4 installed on the upper end of the upper tower assembly 1.2, or the rotor-nacelle assembly is mounted on the upper tower assembly prior to lifting. A stabilization system 1.6 is mounted on the lower tower assembly 1.1 such that the platform 1.6a of the stabilization system 1.6 is formed by a guide frame 1.7, preferably the upper of the two guide frames 1.7.The guide devices (not shown here, 1.6e in . Fig. 3) The upper ends of the movably mounted support arms 1.6b of the stabilization system 1.6 rest against the sliding surfaces of the corner posts of the upper tower assembly, allowing them to slide along the upper tower assembly during lifting. Furthermore, a plurality of first temporarily deployable strand jacks 1.8 are installed on the platform 1.6a of the stabilization system 1.6. The strands of the first strand jacks are guided downwards along the tower 1.8a and connected to load-bearing points 1.3a at the lower end of the guide element 1.3. A first temporarily deployable additional weight 1.9 is inserted and secured behind the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower 1.

[0106] Fig. Figure 4 (b) shows the lattice tower 1 in a partially raised state, e.g., after a first partial lifting step. It can be seen that the guide devices (not shown here, 1.6e in Fig. 3) The support arms 1.6b of the stabilization system 1.6 slide along the sliding surfaces of the corner posts of the upper tower assembly 1.2, thus enabling reduced friction and stabilization of the upper tower assembly 1.2. Before lifting in a second sub-step, a temporarily deployable second additional weight (not shown) is inserted and secured below the guide element 1.3 on the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower 1.

[0107] Fig. Figure 4 (c) shows the lattice tower 1 in its fully raised state after a second partial lifting step to its final hub height. It can be seen that the support arms 1.6b of the stabilization system 1.6 are inclined away from the longitudinal axis of the lattice tower 1 during the lifting process, following the contour of the upper tower assembly 1.2.

[0108] Subsequently, the lower and upper tower assemblies 1.1, 1.2 are connected to each other by the support arms 1.6b of the stabilization system. The guide element 1.3 is dismantled and lowered within the lower tower assembly 1.1 to a final position, where it is secured. The second strand jacks, the first strand jacks, and the installed first and second temporary additional weights are also dismantled.

Claims

[1] Telescopic lattice tower of a wind turbine, comprising at least - a lower tower assembly, - an upper tower assembly, and - a lifting system for raising and lowering the upper tower assembly, the lifting system comprising at least • a guide element, • two guide frames, • a stabilization system, and • comprises a plurality of temporarily deployable first strand jacks, and wherein the stabilization system - a platform, - four movable support arms, and - includes several lifting and lowering devices, wherein the four movably mounted support arms are each temporarily connected to the platform at their lower end by a hinge, and each have a guide device at their upper end, and The four movably mounted support arms are connected to each other and to the lifting and lowering devices arranged on the platform via tension struts or steel cables as Y- or V-shaped connectors. [2] Telescopic lattice tower according to claim 1, characterized by that the upper tower assembly is designed to be connectable to a rotor-nacelle assembly. [3] Telescopic lattice tower according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the lifting system still has temporarily usable additional weights to optimize the center of gravity. [4] Telescopic lattice tower according to claim 3, characterized by that the temporarily usable additional weights comprise a first and a second additional weight. [5] Telescopic lattice tower according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that the lower and upper tower assemblies each comprise several tower assembly segments in a lattice construction. [6] Telescopic lattice tower according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that the at least two guide frames are arranged at a distance of 10 m to 30 m from each other. [7] Telescopic lattice tower according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the guide device is designed as a guide block with sliding coating and / or as a guide roller with sliding coating. [8] Telescopic lattice tower according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the plurality of lifting and lowering devices are designed as winches or second strand jacks. [9] Method for lifting a telescopic lattice tower, comprising at least the following steps: a) Providing a telescopic lattice mast tower according to one of claims 1 to 8 in the lowered state, wherein the upper tower assembly of the telescopic lattice mast is temporarily mounted on the guide element and the upper tower assembly and the guide element are arranged completely within the lower tower assembly, and the stabilization system is installed on the lower tower assembly such that the platform of the stabilization system is formed by one of the guide frames, b) Mounting the plurality of first temporarily deployable strand jacks on the platform of the stabilisation system and connecting the strands to load-bearing points on the guide element, c) Lifting the upper tower assembly, d) Connecting the upper and lower tower assemblies, e) Dismantling the guide element and lowering the guide element within the lower tower assembly to a final position, f) Dismantling the first temporary strand jacks. [10] Method for lifting a telescopic lattice tower according to claim 9, characterized by that a rotor-nacelle assembly is mounted on an upper end of the upper tower assembly. [11] A method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the first temporarily deployable strand jacks are mounted on a guide frame installed at the upper end of the lower tower assembly. [12] Method according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by that the strands of the temporary first strand jack are guided along the lower tower assembly downwards towards the installation surface of the lattice mast tower. [13] Method according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized by that the method additionally comprises a step g) for inserting a temporarily usable additional weight and / or an additional step h) for inserting a second temporarily usable additional weight. [14] Use of a telescopic lattice tower according to one of claims 1 to 8 in a wind energy plant, in particular an onshore wind energy plant, for generating electrical power.

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