Supporting structures and methods for central frame of direct-drive wind turbine

Abstract

To provide supporting structures and related methods for a central frame of a direct-drive wind turbine.SOLUTION: The present disclosure relates to supporting structures for a central frame of a direct-drive wind turbine and methods for managing such structures. A supporting structure is configured to assume a deployed configuration and a stowed configuration. In the stowed configuration, the supporting structure has a shape and size such that the supporting structure can be introduced into the central frame from an outside. In the deployed configuration, the supporting structure has one or more increased dimensions with respect to the stowed configuration, and comprises a working platform.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4C

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wind turbines, and more particularly to a support structure for a central frame of a direct drive wind turbine and related methods.

Background Art

[0002] Modern wind turbines are commonly used to supply electricity to the power grid. This type of wind turbine generally includes a tower and a rotor disposed on the tower. The rotor, typically including a hub and a plurality of blades, is adapted to rotate under the influence of wind on the blades. The rotation usually generates torque that is transmitted directly ("direct drive" or "gearless") through a rotor shaft to a generator or through a gearbox. In this way, the generator generates electricity that can be supplied to the power grid.

[0003] In a wind turbine with a gearbox, the gearbox can typically increase the speed of the wind-driven rotor and thus reduce the required size of the generator. In contrast, direct drive generators, such as those used in offshore direct drive wind turbines, operate at the same rotational speed as the rotor. Therefore, they generally have a much larger diameter than the generators used in wind turbines with gearboxes in order to provide a similar amount of power as wind turbines with gearboxes.

[0004] The rotor shaft can be rotatably mounted on a bedplate above the tower using one or more rotor shaft bearings disposed on the bedplate. In a direct drive wind turbine, the bedplate may be the bottom of the frame or may be coupled to the bottom flange of the frame. The frame can cover the components disposed on the bedplate and transmit the load to the tower. The frame can be made of cast steel. The yaw motor and electrical cabinet may be on the bedplate and may be covered by the frame.

[0005] The nacelle, a housing located at the top of a wind turbine tower, can cover and protect at least the components on the bed plate. In a direct-drive wind turbine, the nacelle can cover at least the frame.

[0006] In direct-drive wind turbines, a temporary support structure is mounted inside the frame, allowing access to different components of the wind turbine, such as the rotor hub, generator, and nacelle. Access to one or more of these components may be required during the assembly and / or installation of the wind turbine. Access for maintenance work may also be required.

[0007] Installing support structures inside the frame each time they are needed is time-consuming and can delay access to the required location or component. This is especially true when different support structures, such as structures of different heights or shapes, are required for different tasks in different locations. [Overview of the project]

[0008] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a support structure for the central frame of a direct-drive wind turbine is provided. The support structure is configured to take a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration. In the retracted configuration, the support structure has a shape and size such that it can be introduced into the central frame from the outside. In the deployed configuration, the support structure has one or more enlarged dimensions compared to the retracted configuration and includes a work platform.

[0009] According to this embodiment, the dimensions of the support structure can be reduced in order to easily introduce it into the central frame. For example, the support structure may be folded to reduce the space it occupies. Once inside the central frame, the support structure can be unfolded, for example, by unfolding it.

[0010] Folding also facilitates the introduction of a support structure (or at least partially assembled) on a central frame, instead of transporting and installing each component individually. Assembly and installation time for the central frame can be reduced. The support structure may be assembled, at least partially, outside the main production line. Therefore, the efficiency of the main line can be improved.

[0011] Furthermore, folding allows for the integration of two or more functions into the support structure when it is unfolded, or enables access to different locations or components within the central frame. Therefore, maintenance time for the central frame or locations requiring access from the central frame can be reduced. Temporary platforms can be avoided.

[0012] Additional components or parts of the support structure may be placed inside the central frame after the first and second sides have been released within the central frame.

[0013] Through this disclosure, the central frame can be understood as a structural component of a direct-drive wind turbine configured to transmit loads and vibrations acting on the rotor of the wind turbine to the tower of the wind turbine. The central frame may also be known as the base frame, main frame, or rear frame. The bottom of the central frame may be connected to the tower of the wind turbine. The generator may be connected to the front of the central frame, or to a front frame mounted on the front of the central frame.

[0014] In a further embodiment, a method is provided for handling a support structure for use in the central frame of a direct-drive wind turbine. The method includes lifting the support structure and introducing it into the central frame while the support structure is in a housing configuration. The method further includes attaching the support structure to the central frame and deploying the support structure.

[0015] In yet another embodiment, a support structure for the central frame of a direct-drive wind turbine is provided. The support structure comprises a first side having a first lateral platform, a second opposing side having a second lateral platform, and a central portion having a central platform. The first and second lateral platforms are located above the central platform and are configured to rotate and slide relative to the central platform. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This diagram schematically shows a perspective view of an example of a wind turbine. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a simplified internal cross-sectional view of an example of a wind turbine nacelle and rotor hub. [Figure 3A] This figure schematically shows a perspective view of an example of a support structure for the central frame in the first deployed or released position. [Figure 3B] This diagram schematically shows the support structure of Figure 3A in its storage or folded position. [Figure 3C] This figure schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the support structure in Figure 3B, which is raised inside the central frame. [Figure 3D] This figure schematically shows a perspective bottom view of the support structure shown in Figure 3C, which is unfolded and placed on the bottom of the central frame. [Figure 3E] This figure schematically shows a perspective view of the support structure in Figure 3D, which has additional components mounted inside the central frame. [Figure 4A] This figure schematically shows a perspective view of another example of a support structure for the central frame in the deployed and released position. [Figure 4B] This diagram schematically shows the support structure of Figure 4A in its folded and stored position. [Figure 4C] This figure schematically shows a perspective front view of the support structure of Figure 4B, which is mounted on the bottom of the central frame in the first configuration and has open additional components. [Figure 4D] This figure shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the support structure in Figure 4C. [Figure 4E] This figure schematically shows a rear perspective view of the support structure in Figure 4C in the second configuration. [Figure 5] This diagram schematically illustrates one example of a method for handling the support structure for the central frame of a direct-drive wind turbine. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention are referred to in detail, one or more examples thereof shown in the drawings. Each example is provided as an illustration of the present invention, not as a limitation of the present invention. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can also be used in conjunction with another embodiment to bring about further embodiments. Thus, the present invention is intended to encompass such modifications and changes within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0018] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an example of a wind turbine 160. In this example, the wind turbine 160 is a horizontal axis wind turbine. As shown, the wind turbine 160 includes a tower 170 extending from a support surface 150, a nacelle 161 mounted on the tower 170, and a rotor 115 coupled to the nacelle 161. The rotor 115 includes a rotatable rotor hub 110 and at least one rotor blade 120 coupled to the rotor hub 110 and extending outwardly from the rotor hub 110. For example, in the illustrated example, the rotor 115 includes three rotor blades 120. However, in alternative embodiments, the rotor 115 may include more or fewer than three rotor blades 120. Each rotor blade 120 may be spaced from the rotor hub 110 to facilitate rotation of the rotor 115 and to allow kinetic energy to be transferred from the wind to usable mechanical energy and subsequently to electrical energy. For example, the rotor hub 110 may be rotatably coupled to a generator 3 (FIG. 2) and may be capable of generating electrical energy.

[0019] The tower 170 can be fabricated from tubular steel to define a cavity (not shown in FIG. 1) between the support surface 150 and the nacelle 161. In alternative embodiments, the tower 170 may be any suitable type of tower having any suitable height. According to an alternative form, the tower may be a hybrid tower comprising a concrete portion and a tubular steel portion. Also, the tower may be a partial or complete lattice tower.

[0020] In an example, the rotor blade 120 can have a length in the range of about 15 meters (m) to about 90 m, 120 m or more. The rotor blade 120 may have any suitable length that allows the wind turbine 160 to function as described herein. For example, non-limiting examples of blade lengths include lengths less than 20 m, 37 m, 48.7 m, 50.2 m, 52.2 m, or greater than 91 m. When wind hits the rotor blade 120 from the wind direction, the rotor 115 rotates about the rotor axis. When the rotor blade 120 rotates and is subject to centrifugal force, the rotor blade 120 is also subject to various forces and moments. Therefore, the rotor blade 120 can deflect and / or rotate from a neutral or non-deflected position to a deflected position.

[0021] Furthermore, the pitch angle of the rotor blade 120, i.e., the angle that determines the orientation of the rotor blade 120 with respect to the wind direction, can be changed by the pitch system, and by adjusting the angular position of at least one rotor blade 120 with respect to the wind vector, the load and power generated by the wind turbine 160 can be controlled. During operation of the wind turbine 160, the pitch system can specifically change the pitch angle of the rotor blade 120 such that the angle of attack of (a part of) the rotor blade is reduced, thereby facilitating a reduction in the rotational speed and / or facilitating a stall of the rotor 115.

[0022] The blade pitch of each rotor blade 120 can be individually controlled by the wind turbine controller 180 or the pitch control system. Alternatively, the blade pitch for all rotor blades 120 may be controlled simultaneously by the control system.

[0023] Furthermore, as the wind direction changes, the yaw direction of the nacelle 161 can be rotated about the yaw axis to position the rotor blade 120 with respect to the wind direction.

[0024] The wind turbine controller 180 can be located in the center of the nacelle 161. However, in other examples, the wind turbine controller 180 may be located within any other component of the wind turbine 160, or outside the wind turbine. Furthermore, the controller 180 can be communicatively coupled to any number of components of the wind turbine 160 to control the operation of such components.

[0025] The wind turbine controller 180 may include one or more processors and associated memory devices configured to perform various computer implementation functions (e.g., performing methods, steps, calculations, etc., and storing the relevant data disclosed herein). The wind turbine controller can perform a variety of different functions, such as receiving, transmitting, and / or executing wind turbine control signals, and controlling the overall operation of the wind turbine. The wind turbine controller can be programmed to control the overall operation based on information received from sensors indicating, for example, load, wind speed, wind direction, turbulence disturbances of components, etc.

[0026] As used herein, the term “processor” refers not only to integrated circuits as they are called in the art as being included in a computer, but also to controllers, microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), application-specific integrated circuits, and other programmable circuits. Processors are also configured to compute advanced control algorithms and communicate with various Ethernet or serial-based protocols (such as Modbus, OPC, and CAN). In addition, memory devices may include, but are not limited to, computer-readable media (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), computer-readable non-volatile media (e.g., flash memory), floppy disks, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), magneto-optical disks (MODs), digital multi-purpose disks (DVDs), and / or other suitable memory elements. Such memory devices may be configured to store suitable computer-readable instructions that, when implemented by a processor, constitute a controller to perform various functions as described herein.

[0027] The wind turbine 160 in Figure 1 can be mounted offshore or on land. The wind turbine in Figure 1 may also be a direct-drive wind turbine.

[0028] Figure 2 shows a simplified internal cross-sectional view of the nacelle 161 and rotor hub 110 of a direct-drive wind turbine 160, similar to that in Figure 1. Some elements of the wind turbine 160 are not shown for clarity. As shown, a generator 3 can be coupled to the rotor hub 110 of the wind turbine 160 to generate electricity from the rotational energy produced. Thus, the rotation of the rotor hub 110 drives the generator 3.

[0029] It should be understood that the frame 1 and generator 3 may generally be supported by a support frame or bed plate 17 positioned on the wind turbine tower 170. The bed plate 17 may be the bottom portion or it may be joined to the bottom flange of the frame 1. The nacelle 161 is rotatably coupled to the tower 170. The bed plate 17 can be rotatably coupled to the wind turbine tower 170.

[0030] The direct-drive wind turbine 160 in Figure 2 includes a generator 3 mounted on a frame 1. The generator 3 comprises a generator stator 32 and a generator rotor 31 configured to rotate around a rotation axis RA. The frame 1 has a protruding portion 11 that extends beyond the generator 3.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2, the first structure may have a tapered region 18 toward the rotor hub 110. The tapered region 18 may at least partially protrude from the generator 3 toward the rotor hub 110. The generator rotor 31 may be rotatably mounted on the generator stator 32.

[0032] In the example shown in Figure 2, the projection 11 extends along the rotation axis RA toward the rotor hub 110 of the wind turbine 160. Therefore, the projection 11 can extend in the upwind direction along the rotation axis RA.

[0033] In another example, the projection may extend away from the rotor hub 110 of the wind turbine 160 along the rotation axis RA. The projection 11 may extend toward the bed plate 17 or the tower 170, that is, the projection 11 may be positioned in the opposite direction to the rotor hub 110 along the rotation axis RA. Thus, the projection 11 can extend downwind along the rotation axis RA.

[0034] Following the example in Figure 2, at least a portion of the protruding portion 11 may rest in a chamber 111 defined inside the rotor hub 110. The chamber 111 may be defined as a hollow body of the rotor hub 110.

[0035] In Figure 2, the generator rotor 31 surrounds the generator stator 32. However, in other examples, the generator stator may surround the generator rotor.

[0036] The protruding portion 11 may be the front portion of the frame 1. The protruding portion 11 may be formed integrally with the frame 1 or may be separate from the frame 1. The frame 1 may have a rear portion 16 facing the bed plate 17 of the wind turbine 160 and / or the front portion of the frame 1.

[0037] A frame 1 without the protruding portion 11 is sometimes called a central frame. The central frame 125 can transmit the loads and vibrations acting on the rotor 115 of the wind turbine 160 to the tower 170 of the wind turbine 160. The central frame 125 can be made of cast steel. Examples of the central frame 125 or parts of a central frame can be seen in Figures 3C-3E and 4C-4E. The central frame 125 may have a bottom opening 126, a front opening 127, and a rear opening 128 (see, for example, Figure 3C). The bottom opening 126 can allow passage between the central frame 125 and the inside of the tower 170, the front opening 127 can allow passage between the central frame 125 and the inside 111 of the rotor hub 110 or the front frame, and the rear opening 128 can allow passage between the central frame 125 and the inside of the nacelle 161.

[0038] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a support structure 200 for the central frame 125 of a direct-drive wind turbine 160. The support structure 200 is configured to take a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration. In the retracted configuration, the support structure 200 has a shape and size such that the support structure can be introduced into the central frame 125 from the outside. In the deployed configuration, the support structure has one or more enlarged dimensions compared to the retracted configuration and includes a work platform. The work platform can be understood as a support on which an operator can stand and move.

[0039] One or more dimensions of the support structure 200 may be larger in the deployed state than in the retracted state. The length and / or height and / or width of the support structure 200 may be increased compared to the retracted configuration. For example, the length of the support structure 200 may be greater in the deployed state than in the retracted state.

[0040] The support structure 200 may comprise a central portion 215 and one or more side portions 205, 210 that are hinged to the central portion 215. The first side portion 205 and the second side portion 210 may be configured to fold toward the central portion 215.

[0041] The support structure 200 may further comprise one or more components configured to move relative to, for example, the central portion 215 from a first position to a second position. The one or more components configured to move may be slidably positioned relative to the central portion 215. Such components may be referred to as slidable components 220. This may also help reduce the dimensions of the support structure for introduction into the central frame.

[0042] A first example of the support structure 200 is shown in Figures 3A to 3E. The first side portion 205 and the second opposing side portion 210 are unfolded in Figure 3A and folded in Figure 3B. The support structure 200 is in an unfolded configuration in Figure 3A and in a retracted configuration in Figure 3B. A hinge 207, or any suitable rotatable joint between the central portion 215 and the first side portion 205 or the second side portion 215, may allow the first and second side portions to be folded toward the central portion 215.

[0043] Folding the support structure 200 may help introduce the structure 200 inside the central frame 125, as shown in Figure 3C. The folded support structure 200 can be lifted and moved into the central frame 125, for example, through the rear opening 128 of the central frame 125. The rear opening 128 may be configured to face downwind.

[0044] The central section 215 may comprise a first plurality of beams 216 and a second plurality of beams 217. The second plurality of beams 217 may be substantially perpendicular to the first plurality of beams 216. The first plurality of beams 216 may comprise two substantially parallel beams, and the second plurality of beams 217 may comprise two or more beams that are mounted between the two substantially parallel beams and attached to the two substantially parallel beams by their ends. Mounting can be done mechanically, for example, through nuts and bolts or rivets. The first plurality of beams 216 and the second plurality of beams 217 may form a base framework.

[0045] The central section 215 may comprise a plurality of brackets 218. The brackets 218 may extend downward (configured to extend inward toward the tower 170) and may include one or more hooks or hangers 219. The basket 219 may be supported by one bracket or by two or more brackets. The basket may be used to support cables or any other suitable components.

[0046] The central section 215 may further comprise one or more plates 221, for example, mechanically attached to the beams of the first plurality of beams 216 and the second plurality of beams 217. An operator can stand on one or more plates 221 and move around them. The plates 221 may be substantially flat.

[0047] The first side portion 205 may comprise a plurality of beams 206. The beams 206 may be substantially parallel to one another and may be rotatably mounted to the central portion 215. The ends of the beams 206 may be directly or indirectly connected to the beams of the first plurality of beams 216 via hinges 207 or any other suitable rotatable connectors. The cantilever beams 206 of the first side portion 205 of the support structure 200 may be substantially parallel to the second plurality of beams 217 of the central portion 215 when the first side portion 205 is in an open state as shown in Figure 3A.

[0048] Furthermore, one or more brackets 218 may extend downward from one or more beams 206, for example, the central beam of a first side 205 (in the open position of the first side portion 205). One or more baskets 219 can be attached to one or more brackets 218. For example, a beam 206 may have two or more brackets 218 pointing downward, and a basket 219 may be attached to two or more brackets 218 of the beam 206.

[0049] The first side portion 205 may further comprise one or more plates 221, each plate attached to two or more beams 206.

[0050] Features of the first side portion 205 may also be found in the second opposing side portion 210, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B.

[0051] In some examples, one or more sliding components 220 may be a column 222 configured to guide at least one cable from the central frame 125 to the wind turbine tower 170 in the deployed configuration. Such one or more cables may be configured to carry the power generated by the generator 3 to the power grid. The column 222 can be formed by four vertical beams 223 joined by horizontal supports 224, for example, as shown in Figure 3A. Inclined supports 225 can be used to reinforce the column 222.

[0052] Column 222 may be provided in the central portion 215 of the structure. When the support structure 200 is outside the central frame 125, column 222 can project upward. This position may be a folded position relative to column 222. When the structure 200 is inside the central frame and released, column 222 can be slid downward, as shown in Figure 3D. This may be an open position relative to column 222. When released, the support structure 200 may be attached to the inner flange 136 at the bottom of the central frame 125.

[0053] The support structure 200 can be made of one or more metals, such as steel.

[0054] After the support structure 200 is attached to the bottom of the central frame 125, further components can be added. For example, as shown in Figure 3E, a ladder 230 configured to extend into the wind turbine tower 170 and / or a ladder 235 configured to provide access to the nacelle 161 can be added. The ladder 230 may be foldable. The ladder 235 may have a horizontal support 236 on its top. A door 240 for restricting access through the front opening 127 may also be included. A plate 221 may be added to the central portion 215 and one or more of the first side portion 205 and the second side portion 210 to form a floor 250. The floor 250 may be a bed plate 17 on which electrical cabinets and other equipment can be placed. The floor may be a work platform.

[0055] A second example of the support structure 200 is shown in Figures 4A to 4E. In Figure 4A, the support structure 200 is unfolded, and in Figure 4B, it is folded.

[0056] The central portion 215 may comprise a central platform 315, the first side portion 205 may comprise a first lateral platform 305, and the second side portion 210 may comprise a second lateral platform 310. In the deployed configuration, the first lateral platform 305 and the second lateral platform 310 may be positioned at a different vertical level than, for example, above the central platform 315. The platform can be formed by a frame comprising a plate support 325, such as a beam, and one or more plates 326 on the plate support 325. The plates 326 and the frame can be attached mechanically, for example, by nuts and bolts. In some examples, the plates and plate support may be integrally formed. The plates 326 can be made of one or more plastics.

[0057] The central platform 315 may be rectangular. The side platforms 305, 310 may resemble rectangles or squares, except for outer edges 307, 332 which may be configured to fit the inner surface of the central frame 125. The outer edges may include protrusions or flanges that fit the inner surface of the central frame. Such edges or flanges may be, for example, rounded.

[0058] The connecting element 340 can connect the lateral platforms 305, 310 to the central platform 315. Two or more vertical beams, one or more vertical plates, or any other suitable elements may be used. The connecting element 340 can support the lateral platforms 305, 310 on the central platform 315.

[0059] The lateral platforms 305, 310 may be accessible from the central platform 315. The connecting element 340 may include a rung 341. In some examples, the connecting element 340 may be a staircase that facilitates passage between the central platform 315 and the lateral platforms 305, 310. The staircase 340 may be formed by two vertical beams or bars and one or more horizontal rungs between the two vertical beams or bars 342.

[0060] The inner edges or inner portions 306, 331 of the lateral platforms 305, 310 may be located vertically above the outer edge or outer portion 316 of the central platform 315, such that the support structure 200 has a U-shape or hat-shape in cross-section (in cross-section including the connecting element 340) when in the open position, as shown in Figure 4A.

[0061] The lateral platforms 305, 310 may be configured to rotate and slide relative to the central platform 315, for example toward it. The lateral edges 308 of the lateral platforms 305, 310 may have elongated openings 330 that can engage with a first rotating element 333, such as a rod or bar on the upper part of the joint element 340. The beams 309 of the lateral platforms 305, 310, which are substantially parallel to the lateral edges 308, may also have elongated openings 330 that can engage with a second rotating element, such as a rod or bar on the upper part of the joint element 340. The beams 309 may be opposing lateral edges. The first and second rotating elements may be the same, for example, each opening 300 may engage with the opposing ends of a single rotating element, or they may be separate, for example, two rotating elements.

[0062] The lateral platforms 305 and 310 can be slid, and then the support structure 200 can be rotated around the pivot axis 339 to make it more compact. Next, the support structure 200 can transition from a deployed configuration to a retracted configuration. For example, the inner end 335 of the opening 330 can engage with the rotating element 333 when the support structure is released, and the lateral platforms 305 and 310 can rotate, and the lateral platforms can slide toward the central platform 315 until the outer end 336 of the opening 330 engages with the rod and the lateral platforms can no longer continue to slide.

[0063] In other examples, the lateral platforms 305, 310 may first be rotated around the pivot axis 339 and then slid.

[0064] The lateral platforms 305, 310 may be longer in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis 339 of the lateral platforms than the central platform 315 in the same direction. The dimensions of the lateral platforms 305, 310 and the central platform 315 may be selected depending on the location from which access is desired. The same applies to the distance between the lateral platforms 305, 310 and the central platform 315, for example, the vertical distance.

[0065] Next, the support structure 200 can be easily lifted into the central frame 125. The lifting may be done through the rear opening 128 of the central frame 125. Once inside the central frame 125, the support structure 200 can be released, lowered, and attached to the central frame 125, as shown in Figure 4C. To support the platforms 305, 310, 315 when lowered, one or more support elements 345, such as one or more vertical beams or legs, can be attached to the bottom of the central frame 125. The support elements 345 may be attached to the inner flange 136 of the bottom of the central frame, or to the bed plate 17.

[0066] The lateral platforms 305, 310 are attached to the inner side of the central frame 125 by at least their outer edges 307, 332, and may be bolted, for example. One or more connection points 365 may also be used to join the platforms 305, 310, 315 to the inner surface of the central frame 125. The connection points may be corner joints or any suitable piece that allows the platforms to be connected to the inner surface of the central frame 125. In some examples, the platforms may be attached directly to the central frame, for example, mechanically.

[0067] The edge of the central platform 315 can be attached to the bottom portion of the forward flange 137 of the central frame 125 using other connection points 346, such as beams that are shorter than the leg portions 345 (see, for example, Figures 4C to 4E).

[0068] Once fixed to the central frame 125, additional elements can be added to the support structure 200, as shown in Figures 4C and 4D, for example.

[0069] By installing the basic support structure on the outside of the main production line before lifting it inside the central frame 125, assembly time on the main production line can be reduced. Once the support structure 200 is installed inside the central frame 125, additional components can be added as needed.

[0070] A ladder 350 can be attached to the edge of the central platform 315, for example, configured to face the rear opening 128 of the central frame 125. One or more operators can then use the ladder 350 to access the central platform 315 from inside the central frame 125. The operator may need to open a door 355 to access the central platform 315 from inside the central frame 125. The central platform 315 can provide access to the rotor hub 110.

[0071] Door 356 may be attached to the inner edges 306, 331 of the lateral platforms 305, 310. When an operator comes onto the central platform 315, the operator can open door 356 and access the lateral platforms 305, 310. The lift point 135 of the central frame 125 or nacelle 161 can be accessed from the lateral platforms 305, 310.

[0072] In some examples (not shown), it may be possible to allow a ladder or another suitable element to access the lateral platforms 305, 310 without having to ride on the central platform 315.

[0073] The rail 360 may also be attached to one or more edges of the platforms 305, 310, 315 to enhance the safety of people on the platforms. The rail 360 may have one or more connection points 365 for attaching the rail 360 to the inner surface of the central frame 125, for example, the lateral inner surface and / or the upper inner surface. As previously stated, the connection points may be corner joints or any suitable piece that allows the rail 360 to be connected to the inner surface of the central frame 125. In some examples, the rail may be attached directly to the central frame, for example, through nuts and bolts.

[0074] The platform extension 370 can be mounted on the edge of the central platform 315, which is configured to face the rotor hub 110, as shown in Figures 4C and 4D.

[0075] The support structure 200 may have two or more deployment configurations. A first configuration may be for accessing a portion of the central frame 125, and a second different configuration may be for accessing a second different portion of the central frame 125. For example, the first configuration may allow access to the lower portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame and the lift point 135 of the central frame or nacelle (see, for example, Figure 4C). A second configuration may allow access to the upper portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125 (see, for example, Figure 4E).

[0076] The support structure 200 may also include one or more platform portions 375, as shown in Figure 4C. One or more platform portions 375 may be configured to form an additional platform 380 above and between, for example, the lateral platforms 305, 310, as shown in Figure 4E. The platform portion 375 may also be a platform plate 381. The platform portion 375 may also be a support element 382 for one or more platform plates 381. The support element 382 may be a rod or a beam, as shown in Figure 4C, but other support elements may be used. In some other examples, the platform portion may be a single piece that can be mounted and used as a platform.

[0077] One or more platform sections 375 may be suspended from rails 360 above the central platform 315, for example, as shown in Figure 4C.

[0078] Figure 4E shows the support structure 200 with an additional platform 380 assembled. The additional platform 380 may be accessible from the lateral platforms 305, 310 and can be used to traverse between them. The additional platform 380 may allow access to the upper portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125.

[0079] The additional platform 380 may be mounted on the horizontal rail 361 above the element 340 that joins the lateral platforms 305, 310 to the central platform 315. The lateral platforms may be configured to extend further toward the rear opening 128 of the central frame 125 than the central platform. The additional platform 380 may be configured to extend less or substantially the same toward the rear opening 128 as the central platform 315, as shown in Figure 4E. The difference in the extensions of the lateral platforms 305, 310 and the central platform 315 toward the rear opening 128 can be seen in Figure 4D.

[0080] Therefore, a versatile support structure 200 can be obtained. Depending on the task to be performed, the support structure 200 may be configured accordingly. For example, whenever it may be necessary to access a particular location during installation or maintenance, it may not be necessary to initially install a specific support for access. Access to one or more of the rotor 115, the nacelle or central frame lift point 135, and the upper portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125 can be performed quickly.

[0081] As shown in Figure 4E, the ladder 350, which is initially configured to allow access to the central platform 315, may be moved to allow access to the lateral platforms 305, 310 instead of the central platform. In other examples, two or more ladders can be used, for example, one ladder for accessing the central platform and another ladder for accessing the lateral platforms.

[0082] In a further aspect of this disclosure, a method 400 is provided for handling a support structure 200 for use in the central frame 125 of a direct-drive wind turbine 160. The support structure 200 described with respect to Figures 3A-3E and 4A-4E can be used.

[0083] The method involves, in block 410, lifting the support structure 200 while it is in its housing configuration and introducing it into the central frame 125. The folded structure can be lifted and positioned inside the central frame 125 using a crane or any suitable lifting tool.

[0084] The method may further include folding the first side portion 205 and the second opposing side portion 210 of the support structure 200 toward the central portion 215 of the structure.

[0085] The side sections 205, 210 of the structure may be attached to the central section 215 by one or more rotatable joints or connectors 207, such as hinges. Other features may be used that allow the lateral side sections 205, 210 to rotate toward the central section 215. For example, a rod or bar may engage with a portion of the side sections 205, 210, such as the end of a beam 206, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, and the rod or bar may also engage with a portion of the central section 215, such as a horizontal projection.

[0086] Folding the first side portion 205 and the second opposing side portion 210 may include rotating the first side portion 205 and the second side portion 210 and sliding them toward the central portion 215. Depending on the structure 200, the sides, such as the lateral platforms 305, 310, may be rotated first and then slid, or slid first and then rotated. Sliding and rotating may also occur at least partially simultaneously. Sliding and rotating can be carried out as described with respect to Figures 4A and 4B.

[0087] In some other examples, rotation may not be necessary, and sliding alone may suffice. The side portions 205, 210 can be slid vertically, for example upward or downward, and then horizontally so as to terminate at least partially above or below the central portion 215. Other methods may also be possible for folding and / or sliding the first and second side portions to reduce the dimensions of the support structure 200.

[0088] The method further includes attaching the support structure 200 to the central frame 125 in block 420. At least the central portion 215 may be attached to the inside of the central frame 125.

[0089] The method further includes unfolding the support structure 200 in block 430. Unfolding may include releasing one or more side portions relative to the central portion 215. For example, the first side portion 205 and the second side portion 210 may be rotated to the position before the support structure 200 was folded. Instead of rotation, or in addition to rotation, sliding may be used for release.

[0090] In some examples, unfolding 430 may be performed before mounting 420. Once unfolded, the support structure 200 may be positioned on the inner flange 136 at the bottom of the central frame 125, as shown in Figure 3D. The outer ends or portions of the beams 206, 216, 217 forming the lateral side portions 205, 210 and the central portion may be mechanically attached to the inner flange 126 at the bottom.

[0091] The central portion 215 may have a column 222 configured to guide at least cables from the central frame 125 to the wind turbine tower 170. The column 222 may project upward when the support structure 200 is lifted inward from the central frame 125 and may slide downward after the lateral side portions 205, 210 are released. The column 222 may slide downward at least after the central portion 215 is attached to the bottom flange 136 of the central frame 125.

[0092] In some other examples, installation 420 may be performed before deployment 430. For example, when unfolded, the support structure 200 may be positioned on one or more support elements 345 on the bottom of the central frame 125. One or more support elements 345 may be attached to the inner flange 136 of the bottom of the central frame and / or to the bed plate 17. The support elements 345 may be beams or legs, e.g., vertical beams or legs, as shown in Figures 4C and 4D. One or more legs 345 may be mechanically joined to the edge of the central platform 315 configured to face the rear opening 128 of the central frame.

[0093] The edge of the central platform 315, configured to face the front opening 127 of the central frame 125, can be attached to the bottom portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125 using other connection points 346, such as beams or legs that are shorter than the support elements 345.

[0094] The lateral platforms 305, 310 above the central platform 315 can be joined to the inner lateral surface 139 and / or the front flange 137 of the central frame 125. The attachment may be direct or indirect, for example, through connection points 365 such as corner joints. Other pieces may be used to attach the lateral platforms 305, 310 to the inside of the central frame. In Figures 4C to 4E, the lateral platforms 305, 310 are attached to both the inner lateral surface 139 and the front flange 137.

[0095] In this way, the support structure 200 for the central frame 125 of the direct-drive wind turbine 160 can be easily lifted and placed inside the central frame 125. For example, the assembly time on the main production line of the nacelle 161 can be shortened because it is not necessary to introduce and install each piece of the support structure 200 individually on the main line. A basic support structure, such as that shown in Figure 3A or Figure 4A, can be assembled on the main production line, then folded and lifted into the central frame 125.

[0096] Using such a support structure 200, access to the rotor 115 through the front opening 127 and access to the nacelle 161 through the rear opening 128 can be easily obtained without requiring a temporary platform or different structure assembled depending on the location of access.

[0097] Once a relatively basic and simple support structure 200, such as the structure shown in Figure 3A or Figure 4A, is fixed inside the central frame 125, additional components can be added.

[0098] Plate 221 may be added to the central portion 215 and one or more of the first side portion 205 and second side portion 210 to form a floor 250. The floor 250 may be a bed plate 17 on which, for example, an electrical cabinet and other equipment can be placed.

[0099] One or more steps or ladders 235, 350 may be added to access the support structure 200. A ladder 230 configured to extend to the wind turbine tower 170 may be provided to access one of the first side sections 205 and the second side sections 210 or the central section 215 from inside the tower 170. One or more of the ladders may be foldable.

[0100] Doors 240, 355 for restricting access through the front opening 127 may also be included.

[0101] In step 430 of the deployment, the support structure can be deployed into a first configuration for accessing a first portion of the central frame. The method may further include deploying the support structure into a second different configuration for accessing a second different portion of the central frame. For example, the first configuration may allow access to the lower portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame and the lift point 135 of the central frame or nacelle (see, for example, Figure 4C). The second configuration may allow access to the upper portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125 (see, for example, Figure 4E).

[0102] In some examples, where a first side portion 205 comprises a first lateral platform 305 and a second side portion 210 comprises a second lateral platform 310, the method may further include adding one or more platform portions 375 to the support structure 200, for example, by detachably joining them. One or more platform portions may be used when necessary to assemble additional platforms 380, for example, above and between the first lateral platform 305 and the second lateral platform 310.

[0103] The platform portion 375 may also be a platform plate 381. The platform portion 375 may be a support element 382 for one or more platform plates 381. The support element 382 may be a rod or a beam as shown in Figure 4D, but other support elements may be used. In some other examples, the platform portion 375 may be a single, integrated piece that can be used as soon as it is placed in the appropriate location.

[0104] One or more platform sections 375 may be suspended from one or more pre-installed rails 360. One or more platform sections 375 may be mounted above the central platform 315, for example, as shown in Figure 4D.

[0105] When the additional platform 380 is installed, the operator can access it from either the lateral platforms 305 or 310. The additional platform 380 can also allow access to the upper portion of the forward flange 137 of the central frame 125.

[0106] As shown in Figure 4E, if an additional platform 380 is placed at a height that prevents access to the lateral platforms 305, 310 from the central platform 315, access to the lateral platforms 305, 310 and then to the additional platform 380 can be made using a ladder 350 or any other suitable tool.

[0107] Therefore, a versatile and adaptable support structure 200 is provided that can be assembled according to the task and location where it needs to be performed. For example, whenever it may be necessary to access a particular location during the installation or maintenance of the central frame, nacelle, or wind turbine, it may not be necessary to mount a specific support for access. Access to one or more of the rotor 115, the central frame or nacelle lifting points 135, and the upper portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125 can be performed quickly.

[0108] A further aspect of the present invention provides another support structure 200 for the central frame 125 of a direct-drive wind turbine 160. The support structure 200 comprises a first side 205 having a first lateral platform 305, a second opposing side 210 having a second lateral platform 310, and a central portion 215 having a central platform 315. The first lateral platform 305 and the second lateral platform 310 are located above the central platform 315 and are configured to rotate and slide relative to the central platform 315, for example toward it.

[0109] In the open position shown in Figure 4A, the support structure 200 can have a U-shaped cross-section (in the cross-section including the connecting element 340 such as stairs).

[0110] The first lateral platform 305 and the second lateral platform 310 may be configured to allow access to one or more lifting points 135 of the central frame 125. The central platform 315 may be configured to provide access to the rotor 115.

[0111] The support structure 200 may further comprise an additional platform 380. The additional platform 380 may be mounted between and above the first lateral platform 305 and the second lateral platform 310. The additional platform 380 may be provided unassembled, for example, comprising one or more platform parts 375 as shown in Figure 4C, and then assembled as needed, for example, as shown in Figure 4E.

[0112] The additional platform 380 may be configured to allow access to at least the upper portion of the front flange 137 of the central frame 125.

[0113] The explanations provided with respect to Figures 4A to 4E can be applied to this support structure 200. Similarly, such a support structure 200 can also be used in the method 400 described above.

[0114] Although only a few examples are disclosed herein, other alternative forms, modifications, uses, and / or equivalents thereof are possible. Furthermore, all possible combinations of the examples described are also covered. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any particular example, but should be determined solely by a fair reading of the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1 frame 3 Generators 11 Protruding part 16 Rear part 17 Bed Plate 18. Tapered region 31 Generator Rotor 32 Generator Stator 110 Rotor Hub Room 111, inside 115 Rotor 120 rotor blades 125 Central Frame 126 Bottom opening, bottom inner flange 127 Front opening 128 Rear opening 135 lifting points 136 Inner flange, bottom flange 137 Front flange 139 Medial side 150 Support surface 160 Direct-Drive Wind Turbine 161 Nacer 170 Wind Turbine Towers 180 Wind Turbine Controller 200 Support structure 205 First side section, lateral side section 206 Beam, Cantilever Beam 207 Hinges, Connectors 210 Second opposing side portion, lateral side portion 215 Central part 216 First Multiple Beams 217 Second set of multiple beams 218 Bracket 219 Hooks or hangers, baskets 220 Sliding parts 221 Plate 222 pillars 223 Vertical beam 224 horizontal support 225 Slanted post 230 Ladder 235 Stairs or ladders 236 Horizontal support 240 doors 250 beds 300 opening 305 First lateral platform, side platform 306 Inner edge, inner portion 307 Outer edge 308 Lateral edge 309 Beam 310 Second lateral platform, side platform 315 Central Platform 316 Outer edge or outer portion 325 Plate support 326 Plate 330 Elongated opening 331 Inner edge, inner portion 332 Outer edge 333 First rotation element 335 Inner end 336 Outer edge 339 Rotation axis 340 Connecting elements, stairs 341 Lang 342 Vertical beam or bar 345 Supporting elements, legs 346 connection points 350 ladder 355 doors 356 doors 360 Rail 361 Horizontal Rail 365 connection points 370 Platform extension 375 Platform section 380 additional platforms 381 Platform Plate 382 Support elements 400 ways RA rotation axis

Claims

1. A support structure (200) for a central frame (125) of a direct drive wind turbine (160), said support structure (200) being foldable and configured to assume a deployed configuration and a stowed configuration; In the stowed configuration, the support structure (200) is folded and has a shape and size such that the support structure (200) can be introduced from the outside into the central frame (125); In the deployed configuration, the support structure (200) is deployed and has one or more increased dimensions relative to the stowed configuration and comprises a working platform. Support structure (200).

2. 2. The support structure (200) of claim 1, comprising two or more deployment configurations including a first deployment configuration for accessing a first portion of the central frame (125) and a second deployment configuration for accessing a second, different portion of the central frame (125).

3. The support structure (200) of claim 1, comprising a central portion (215) and one or more side portions (205, 210) hingedly attached to said central portion (215).

4. The support structure (200) of claim 3, comprising one or more parts (220) configured to translate relative to the central portion (215) from a first position to a second position.

5. The support structure (200) of claim 4, wherein the one or more parts (220) configured to translate are slidably disposed relative to the central portion (215).

6. 2. The support structure (200) of claim 1, wherein the central portion (215) comprises a central platform (315), the first side portion (205) comprises a first lateral platform (305), and the second side portion (210) comprises a second lateral platform (310), and in the deployed configuration, the first lateral platform (305) and the second lateral platform (310) are disposed at a different vertical level than the central platform (315).

7. The support structure (200) of claim 6, wherein the lateral platforms (305, 310) are configured to rotate and slide relative to the central platform (315).

8. The support structure (200) of claim 6, further comprising one or more platform portions (375) configured to form additional platforms (380).

9. The support structure (200) of claim 8, wherein the additional platform (380) is configured to be accessible from the lateral platforms (305, 310).

10. A method (400) for handling a support structure (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for use in a central frame (125) of a direct drive wind turbine (160), comprising: Lifting and introducing (410) the support structure (200) into the central frame (125) while the support structure (200) is in a stowed configuration; Attaching (420) the support structure (200) to the central frame (125); deploying (430) said support structure (200); The method (400).

11. 11. The method (400) of claim 10, wherein deploying (430) the support structure (200) comprises rotating and / or sliding one or more side portions (205, 210) relative to a central portion (215).

12. 11. The method (400) of claim 10, wherein the support structure (200) is deployed to a first configuration for accessing a first portion of the central frame (125) and to a second, different configuration for accessing a second, different portion of the central frame (125).

13. 11. The method (400) of claim 10, wherein the support structure (200) comprises a central portion (215) and one or more side portions (205, 210) hingedly attached to the central portion (215), a first side portion (205) comprising a first platform (305) and a second side portion (210) comprising a second platform (310), the method (400) further comprising adding one or more platform portions (375) to the support structure (200) to assemble additional platforms (380).

14. The method (400) of claim 10, further comprising attaching the support structure (200) to a bottom flange (136) of the central frame (125).

15. The method (400) of claim 10, further comprising attaching the support structure (200) to a bottom of a forward flange (137) of the center frame (125).

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