Rotary playback machine structure

Abstract

A support structure for a rotary regenerator or rotary absorber (RAM), the support structure comprising: an upper stator and a lower stator axially spaced from one another by at least two first segments of pedestals, the first segments of each pedestal extending between the upper and lower stators; and an upper rotor bearing housing mount disposed above a lower surface of the upper stator, the rotor bearing housing mount being attached to the upper stator by at least one radially extending bearing support structure, a radially inner end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure being attached to the bearing housing mount and a radially outer end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure being adjacent to a top of each pedestal first segment.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application is a nonprovisional application and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 341,785, filed May 13, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] FIELD OF THEINVENTION The present invention relates generally to a rotary regenerator, and more specifically to a rotary regenerator comprising a rotor assembly for extracting carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from a first gas stream comprising air or flue gas. 2 ) and CO 2 liberating much higher concentrations of CO for downstream capture and sequestration 2 The present invention relates to a support structure and rotor for a rotary regenerator that is adapted to be a rotary absorption machine (RAM) suitable for use in carbon capture applications when loaded with an adsorbent material configured to produce a second gas stream having [Background technology]

[0003] Carbon capture technology (“CO 2 The CO capture system (also called a “CO capture system”) is a system that captures CO from fossil fuel power plant systems or gas streams. 2 The system can be used in any other plant where carbon removal is desired, for example in a direct air capture (DAC) system. One such carbon capture technology utilizes a thermal swing adsorption (TSA) system. The RAM in a TSA system is based on the general well-known mechanical principles of a conventional air preheater (APH) of the rotary regenerative heat exchanger type, but has a different ducting and sealing configuration and uses a rotor assembly that houses the adsorption media rather than the metallic heat exchange elements typically used in APHs. Such CO 2One low-profile RAM with spoked stator ring structure designed for use in capture systems is described in WO2020231381A1 (Applicant's LoPro™ RAM). A conventional APH design with spoked outer casing supports is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,674B1 (Applicant's Spoked Casing Support APH). The detailed descriptions of both citations are incorporated herein and / or recognized as integral part of the general prior art knowledge of the intended recipients of Applicant's published APH and RAM designs.

[0004] The spoked casing support APH 100 shown in FIG. 1 has spoked support rings 101, 102 intended to provide a degree of rigidity and shape to a cylindrical casing 103 fabricated from relatively thin steel plate. A rotor post assembly hub 104 housed within the casing 103 is supported by being sandwiched between upper and lower rotor bearing fixtures (not shown) each attached to a conventional APH center section 105, 106, respectively. The upper center section 105 and lower center section 106 are sturdy welded steel plate fabrications that are elongated internally braced U-channels that extend across, above or below the associated upper and lower spoked support rings 101, 102, respectively. The upper rotor bearing fixture is not shown, but it will be apparent that it rotatably supports the upper extent of the rotor post 107 that extends through the base of the upper center section 105 and is rigidly mounted axially at or above the upper spoked support ring 101. Similarly, the lower bearing mount is rigidly attached to the lower central section 106 and obviously also supports the static weight of the rotor assembly 104. The upper rotor bearing mount may be configured to support some of the weight of the rotor assembly 104, but is primarily designed to maintain the rotor verticality and support dynamic loads during operation.

[0005] The lower central section 106 typically rests on or is indirectly attached to a concrete foundation. The upper central section 105 is fabricated from structural steel plate and is rigidly attached to the lower central section 106 by substantial side pedestals 108 located radially outward of the thin steel plate casing 103, which may be attached by welding, for example. Further support is provided to the casing 103 by circumferentially opposed secondary struts 109 that rise from the concrete foundation to above the upper spoked support ring 101. The struts 109 are each fabricated from a pair of vertical beams 110 connected to upper and lower spacing plates 111. It will be appreciated that the rotor post assembly hub 104 receives its radial support from the central sections 105, 106 substantially or nominally along a vertical plane that extends radially through the nominally elongated central axis of the central sections 105, 106. It will be appreciated that most of the rotor's axial loads are supported directly by lower central section 106, but if the upper bearings support some rotor weight, some axial loads may be transferred indirectly to lower central section 106 via upper central section 105 and side pedestals 108. In any event, upper central section 105 supports all of the dynamic rotor loads that are transferred through the upper extent of rotor post 107.

[0006] The LoPro™ RAM 200 shown in Figure 2 is a low profile design having an upper stator 201 axially spaced from a lower stator 202 by a number of rigidly attached support members 203 extending between the radially outer extents of an outer ring 204 of the structural spoked upper stator 201 and an outer ring 205 of the structural spoked lower stator 202. Lightweight steel sheet casing panels 206 are attached to the radially inner surface of the support members 203 to provide a housing for a low profile rotor 207.

[0007] The weight of the rotor 207 is supported by a lower rotor bearing housing and mountings 208 which stand on a number of legs 209 which are fixed to the concrete foundation. The lower stator 202 is fixed to the concrete foundation by a number of feet (not shown) on which the lower outer ring 205 stands and by attachment to the mountings 208. The upper extent of the rotor post 210 is rotatably supported by an upper rotor bearing housing 211 which acts as the hub for the upper stator 201.

[0008] Intermediate the upper rotor bearing housing 211 and the upper outer ring 204, a circumferentially spaced array of at least three radially extending spokes 212 are rigidly attached. Collectively, the housing 211, spokes 212 and outer ring 204, when rigidly attached to one another, provide a rigid, static structure for the upper stator 201 capable of withstanding the motion and static bearing loads of the upper rotor post 210. Although only the structural form of the RAM 200 is discussed, it will be understood from WO2020231381(A1) that the number and relative circumferential positioning of the spokes 212 is determined by the number of angular arrangements of the sectors of the rotor 207 that contain the TSA media. The underside of each of the spokes 212 can support a respective seal or operable sealing mechanism required for proper operation of the RAM 200.

[0009] Prior art configurations suffer from ease of manufacture and service. One object of the present invention is to address at least these shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The following embodiments and other embodiments form the basis of certain aspects of the invention disclosed herein.

[0011] One embodiment is directed to a support structure (2) for a rotary regenerator or rotary absorber (RAM) (1), the support structure (2) comprising an upper stator (4) and a lower stator (5) axially spaced from each other by first segments (6A) of at least two pedestals (6), each first segment (6A) of the pedestal (6) extending between the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5); and an upper rotor (4) disposed above a lower surface (4L) of the upper stator (4). and a rotor bearing housing mount (7) attached to the upper stator (4) by at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8), a radially inner end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) attached to the bearing housing mount (7) and a radially outer end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) proximate a top (9) of the first segment (6A) of each pedestal (6). In one embodiment, the rotor assembly (3) is housed therein.

[0012] In one embodiment, the upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) is disposed above the upper surface (4U) of the upper stator (4). In one embodiment, the upper stator (4) has an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (11) attached to one another by a number of radial spokes (12) extending between the inner and outer rings, and the bearing support structure (8) transfers bearing loads axially to the upper stator (4) at or adjacent the inner ring (10).

[0013] The support structure (2), in one embodiment, comprises an upper stator (4) having an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (11) attached to one another by a plurality of radial spokes (12) extending between the inner and outer rings, and the bearing support structure (8) comprises axially extending load-bearing struts (13) (e.g., vertical struts) and radially extending inclined load-bearing buttresses (14), the radial load-bearing buttresses (14) being supported by the bearing support structure (8). 9P。 In one embodiment, the bearing support structure (8) is attached to the bearing housing mount (7) by beams (16) extending radially outward from the struts (13) and buttresses (14).

[0014] In one embodiment, each of the pedestals (6) further comprises a second segment (6B) axially attached to the first segment (6A), with an upper portion (9A) of the second segment (6B) adjacent to the lower stator (5). In one embodiment, at least one of the first segments (6A) of the pedestals (6) comprises two parallel posts (17A), each of the two parallel posts (17A) having an upper end, the upper ends of each of the two parallel posts (17A) being attached to a connecting member (18), each connecting member (18) being attached to the outer stator ring (11) and buttress (14) of the upper stator (4).

[0015] One embodiment is directed to a modular support structure (2) for a rotary regenerator or RAM (1), the modular support structure (2) comprising an upper module (19) comprising an upper stator (4), the upper stator (4) configured as a structural support member having a lower surface (4L), an upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) disposed above the lower surface (4L), and at least two support pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a first segment (6A) having an upper portion (9) and a lower portion (20), and a lower module (21) comprising a lower stator (5) and at least two support pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a first segment (6A) having an upper portion (9) and a lower portion (20). and a supporting pedestal (6) including a second segment (6B) having a lower portion (20A) and a supporting pedestal (6) such that, when assembled, the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5) are spaced apart by respective first segments (6A) of the pedestal (6), each of the first segments (6A) being attached to extend between and attached to the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5), each of the upper portions (9) of each of the first segments (6A) of the pedestal (6) being attached to the upper stator (4), each of the lower portions (20) of each of the first segments (6A) of the pedestal (6) being attached to the lower stator (5), and each of the lower portions (20) of the first segments (6A) being attached to the upper portions (9A) of the second segments (6B). It is contemplated that the rotor assembly (3) is housed within the modular support structure.

[0016] The upper stator (4) has an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (11) attached to each other by a number of radial spokes (12) extending between the inner ring (10) and the outer ring (11), and in use, axial bearing loads are transferred by the upper stator (4) at or adjacent to the inner ring (10). In one embodiment, the upper stator (4) of the upper module (19) has a substantially similar geometry as the lower stator (5) of the lower module (21).

[0017] In one embodiment, the modular support structure further comprises at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8), the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) attached to the mount (7), and a radially outer end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) adjacent to an upper portion (9) of a corresponding one of the first segments (6A) of the pedestal (6).

[0018] One embodiment is directed to a module (19) for use in a modular support structure (2), the module (19) comprising an upper stator (4), the upper stator (4) configured as a structural support member having a lower surface (4L), an upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) disposed above the lower surface (4L), and at least two support pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a first segment (6A) having an upper portion (9) and a lower portion (20).

[0019] A further embodiment is directed to a rotor assembly (3) for a rotary regenerator or RAM (1), the rotor assembly (3) comprising an upper rotor post (30), a lower rotor post (31), an intermediate central portion or hub (32) of larger diameter than the upper and lower rotor posts, an upper disc beam (33), a lower disc beam (34), and an upper rotor bearing (35) attached to the upper rotor post (30), the hub (32) being disposed between and attached to the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34), thereby defining an annular space between the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34). In one embodiment, the annular space is configured to receive at least one insert.

[0020] In one embodiment of the rotor assembly, the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34) are attached to the hub by one of welding, fasteners, epoxy, soldering, and brazing. In one embodiment, the hub (32) has an upper surface (32U) and the upper disc beam (33) is an annular structure having an inner circumferential flange (33F) that seats on the outer periphery of the upper surface (32U), and the hub (32) and the inner circumferential flange (33F) are attached to one another and held in place by a number of mechanical fasteners (36).

[0021] In one embodiment of the rotor assembly, the hub (32) has a lower surface (32L) and the lower disc beam (34) is an annular structure having an inner circumferential flange (34F) that seats on the outer periphery of the lower surface (32L), and the hub (32) and the inner circumferential flange (34F) are attached to each other and held in place by a number of mechanical fasteners (not shown).

[0022] Another embodiment is directed to a brace support structure comprising at least one vertical strut and at least one buttress, each of the at least one vertical strut having an upper portion and a lower portion, and each of the at least one buttress having an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion of the vertical strut being attached to the upper portion of the buttress. In one embodiment of the brace support structure, the bottom portion of each of the at least one vertical strut is attached to the upper rotor bearing housing or the upper rotor bearing housing mount, and the lower portion of each of the at least one buttress is attached to the outer ring. Optionally, at least two buttress and strut configurations are connected via a brace beam attached to the upper portion of the strut. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a prior art APH design disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,647 (B1). [Diagram 2]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the applicant's LoPro™ RAM, as disclosed in WO 2020231381(A1), shown in cutaway view with the rotor installed therein. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the applicant's LoPro™ RAM, as disclosed in WO2020231381(A1), with a rotor installed therein and showing in cutaway view the brace support structure disclosed herein; [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a RAM designed in accordance with at least one aspect of the present invention, with a rotor and drive unit installed therein. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the support structure and rotor of the RAM shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a schematic portion A of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a brace support structure that can be used with LoPro™ RAM or the RAM shown in FIGS. 3-5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] 3 and 4 show a basic design of a rotary regenerator, RAM1, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, which can be adapted to accommodate TSA media for carbon capture applications for sequestration from gas streams, such as fossil fuel boiler flue gas streams or air streams.

[0025] The RAM 1 includes a support structure 2 in which a rotor assembly 3 is rotatably housed (FIG. 4). The support structure 2 has upper and lower stators 4 and 5 arranged circumferentially about an axis B. Although axis B is depicted as vertical, and the terms "upper," "top," and "lower" are used to describe the location of certain structures herein, it is contemplated that axis B may be horizontal, and the upper and lower stators may be positioned in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0026] The upper stator 4 and the lower stator 5 are spaced parallel to each other by at least two first segments 6A of pedestals 6. In one embodiment, there are three axial load-bearing pedestals 6 equally spaced circumferentially, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, each pedestal 6 includes a first segment 6A and an axially aligned second segment 6B. The first segment 6A includes an upper portion 9 and a lower portion 20, and the second segment 6B includes an upper portion 9A and a lower portion 20A.

[0027] In one embodiment, the first segment 6A is attached to the second segment 6B by at least one attachment mechanism 22, although it is envisioned that the first segment 6A is attached directly to the second segment 6B. The lower portion 20 of the first segment 6A is attached proximate to the upper portion 9A of the second segment 6B.

[0028] 3-4, first segment 6A extends from upper stator 4 to lower stator 5, with an upper portion 9 of first segment 6A attached to upper stator 4 and attachment mechanism 22 attached to lower stator 5. Attachment mechanism 22 has an upper surface 22A and a lower surface 22B. It should be understood that the shape, configuration, attachment style, and even utilization of attachment mechanism 22 are design choices within the scope of the present invention.

[0029] In one embodiment, the pedestal 6 includes two parallel posts. A first segment 6A of the pedestal 6 includes two parallel posts 17A, and a second segment 6B of the pedestal 6 includes two parallel posts 17B. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the parallel post 17A is axially connected to the parallel post 17B by an attachment mechanism 22, however, the invention is not limited in this respect and the parallel posts 17A, 17B may be directly connected. The invention is not limited in this respect and one or both segments 6A, 6B of the pedestal 6 may have any number of posts 17.

[0030] As shown in Figures 3-4, each pillar 17A is attached to the upper stator 4 via a connecting member 18 and to the lower stator 5 via a mounting mechanism 22. In one embodiment, the pillar 17A is attached to either or both of the connecting member 18 and the mounting mechanism 22 by welding, or is removably attached by mechanical fasteners. As shown in Figures 3-4, each pedestal 6 includes a first segment 6A and a second segment 6B. The first segment 6A has two parallel rows 17A. The second segment 6B has two parallel rows 17B. The first segment 6A is attached to the second segment 6B by the mounting mechanism 22. The upper end of each pillar 17A of the first segment 6A is attached proximate to the connecting member 18. In some embodiments, a plate 18P is fixed to the connecting member 18 of each pillar 17A, and a radially outermost portion of the bearing support structure 8 is fixed to the plate 18P. In some embodiments, the posts 17A are attached to adjacent ones of the posts 17A by gussets 6G. Each of the connecting members 18 is attached proximate to the upper stator 4. The lower ends of each of the parallel posts 17A in the first segment 6A are attached proximate to the upper surface 22A of the mounting mechanism 22. Each of the mounting mechanisms 22 is attached proximate to the lower stator 5. The upper ends of each of the parallel posts 17B in the second segment 6B are attached proximate to the lower surface 22B of the mounting mechanism 22.

[0031] Each of the pedestals 6 is secured at the lowest extent of each of the pedestals 6 to a base mounting (not shown) that is sturdy enough to withstand the operating forces of a large rotary regenerator. While it is preferred that the rotor axis be vertical and the parallel axes of the stators 4, 5 be horizontal, it will be appreciated that this is merely a design choice and that in alternative embodiments the rotor axis may be horizontal, for example. It will be appreciated that the circumferential spacing and number of the pedestals 6 are also design choices. Thus, other embodiments of the invention include pedestals 6 that are unequally spaced, have four or more pedestals 6, have two or fewer pedestals 6, and any permutation of the quantity of pedestals and various spacing options, for example.

[0032] The support structure 2 further comprises an upper rotor bearing housing mount 7. The upper rotor bearing housing mount 7 (also referred to herein as "bearing housing mount 7" or "mount 7") is adapted to receive, locate and secure either an upper bearing housing or an outer fixed race of an upper bearing. The mount 7 may be received within the vertical extent of the upper stator 4. In one embodiment, the mount is located above a lower surface 4L of the upper stator 4. In another embodiment, the mount is located above an upper surface 4U of the upper stator 4.

[0033] In the embodiment shown, the mount 7 is sufficiently above the upper stator 4 to be able to pass through an opening in the support structure 2 and into the void above the installed rotor assembly 3, which void may be partially filled with, for example, electrical wiring, air piping, or any other equipment that needs to be easily accessible for construction, maintenance and / or repair / replacement. In one embodiment, as shown more clearly in FIG. 5, the mount 7 is a stub annulus adapted to receive a bearing outer race and has a cylindrical outer surface 70.

[0034] Extending radially outward from the mount 7 is at least one radially extending bearing support structure 8. In one embodiment, the bearing support structure 8 extends radially outward from an outer surface 70 of the mount 7. The mount 7 is attached to the upper stator 4 by the bearing support structure 8. Each bearing support structure 8 extends toward a corresponding upper portion 9 of a respective pedestal 6.

[0035] Although three bearing support structures 8 are shown in FIGS. 3-5, the invention is not limited in this respect and any number of bearing support structures 8 is contemplated, for example, the number of bearing support structures 8 may be the same as the number of pedestals 6, or may be greater than or less than the number of pedestals 6. In one particular embodiment, the number of pedestals 6 corresponds to the number of bearing support structures 8. Although it is contemplated that each of the bearing support structures 8 is directly and permanently attached to a corresponding upper portion 9 of the first segment 6A of the pedestal 6, the invention is not limited in this respect and the attachment may be indirect (i.e., via another element, such as a plate 18P, between the pedestal 6 and the bearing support structure 8) and / or temporary. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the bearing support structures 8 and the respective first segments 6A of the pedestals 6 are attached in an integral / single-piece fabricated configuration. In some embodiments, a radially outermost portion of the bearing support structure 8 is attached to the plate 18P and disposed between two of the parallel pedestals 6.

[0036] The terms "attachment" or "attached" as used herein include any type of connection that is appropriate given variables such as material, application, and location. The attachment may be permanent or temporary, for example, one-piece / single construction, welding, fasteners, brazing, etc. The attachment may be direct or indirect, for example, the attachment may be between two adjacent parts or may be indirect by having an element placed or positioned between the two parts. In one embodiment, the attachment provides a rigid connection, and in another embodiment, the attachment provides a flexible connection.

[0037] In one embodiment, the rigid mounting transfers the radial load of the upper bearing from the mount 7 through the pedestal 6 to the foundation.

[0038] In one embodiment, each of the bearing support structures 8 comprises an axially extending load-bearing strut 13 and a radial load-bearing buttress 14. In one embodiment, the bearing support structures 8 also comprise a beam 16. The radial load-bearing buttress 14 extends upward from the radial periphery of the bearing support structure 8, with the upper portion 13b of the strut 13 attached proximate to the upper end 14b of the buttress 14. Although not shown, it is envisioned that in the space formed between the buttress 14 and the strut 13, there is a brace feature that fills the space, either completely or partially. The brace feature may be a webbing, a grid, a sheet (e.g., a metal sheet), or any one or more objects that can expand and / or fill the space and provide support to the struts 13 and buttresses 14 and / or any adjacent features. The bearing housing mounts 7 are attached to the inner stator ring 10, for example, via the support structure 8. The struts 13 axially support the bearing housing mounts 7. The mounts 7 are radially supported by the buttresses 14. As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the buttress 14 is attached to an upper surface 15 of the first segment 6A of the pedestal 6.

[0039] The stators 4, 5 of the RAM 1 are structurally designed as spokes. The upper stator 4 is annular and includes an inner ring 10 and an outer ring 11. The inner ring 10 and the outer ring 11 are connected by a number of load-bearing radial spokes 12 extending between and attached thereto. In radial alignment with each pedestal 6, a corresponding vertical strut 13 extends upward from the inner ring 10 and is attached thereto, for example by welding. A buttress 14 is attached to the strut upper portion 13b, extends radially outward and downward from the upper portion 13b, and is attached to the upper surface 15 of each first segment 6A of the pedestal 6. A beam 16 extends radially inward from each vertical strut 13 and buttress 14, attaches them to the outer surface 70 of the mount 7, is horizontal, and extends parallel to the upper stator 4.

[0040] The vertical struts 13, buttresses 14 and beams 16 cooperate with the structural upper stator 4 to transfer the dynamic axial and radial loads of the rotor assembly 3 from the mounts 7 to the pedestal 6 which is fixed in place to the foundation. As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the first segment 6A of the pedestal 6 comprises two parallel columns 17A attached to the top end of the first segment 6A of the pedestal 6 by connecting members 18. The connecting members 18 attach, and in one embodiment rigidly connect, each pedestal 6 to the outer ring 11 or upper stator 4 in place by welding or mechanical fasteners. Each buttress 14 is attached at its radially outer end to a corresponding connecting member 18. In one embodiment, the buttresses 14 are rigidly attached to the connecting members 18. In one embodiment, the rigid attachment of the buttresses 14 is permanently by welding or removably attached to the corresponding connecting member 18 by mechanical fasteners. In certain embodiments, the plate 18P extends between and is attached to the tops 9 of the two pedestals 6 .

[0041] In the illustrated prototype version of RAM1, the stators 4, 5 are approximately 4 meters in diameter and the radial spokes 12 are short, i.e., approximately 1 meter in radial length. However, to increase the carbon capture capacity, it may be desirable to have a stator with a diameter of more than 20 meters, which would require long radial spokes of approximately 8 meters or more in length to accommodate a large rotor assembly of a diameter correspondingly larger than that of the rotor assembly 3. In yet another embodiment, the RAM (not shown) has upper and lower stators of a structural spoke design similar to the stators 4, 5 of RAM1, and long radial spokes similar to the spokes 12. Assuming that the large rotor assembly of this embodiment is of increased diameter in proportion to the comparative length of its spokes, but of a similar axial depth, its weight, in comparison, is nearly 400 times that of the rotor assembly 3. Advantageously, a structure equivalent to that of the vertical struts 13, buttresses 14, and beams 16 of RAM1 cooperates with the structural upper stator to transfer the large weight of the large rotor assembly.

[0042] In such an embodiment, it is envisaged that the spokes 12 are longer and thicker than those shown in Figures 3-5, for example. Longer spokes than spokes 12 must support a greater weight and dynamic load than rotor assembly 3 and meet the maximum desired deflection requirements to guarantee the required structural stiffness and operational limits of the sealing system used. It is self-evident that the spokes in this embodiment of this RAM must cooperate with the immediately adjacent bearing support structure (equivalent to bearing support structure 8 of RAM 1) and must be sturdy enough to withstand the greater weight and associated dynamic loads of a rotor assembly of about 20 meters in diameter at or below the maximum desired deflection of the spokes. To achieve equivalent end-to-end deflections in operation, these long spokes would have a proportional increase in weight and associated rotor assembly loads compared to the short spokes 13 of RAM 1 if constructed of a rigid metal such as a box girder, I-beam, or steel in a functionally similar load-bearing structural form.

[0043] It is envisioned that it would be desirable to reduce the bending moment in the spokes relative to the enlarged version of the configuration of the vertical struts 13, buttresses 14 and beams 16 of the bearing support structure 8 of the RAM 1. This can be achieved in this embodiment by having, along with the required bearing support structure, additional buttress-type brace support structures that stiffen the associated or immediately adjacent spokes, respectively, without providing additional support to the bearing mounts of the RAM. Each of these additional buttress-type brace supports directly or indirectly connects the ends of one spoke or a pair of immediately adjacent spokes to the inner and outer stators, respectively, and provides structural stiffness to the spokes. A structure 400 for a buttress-type brace support as generally shown in Figure 6 may comprise vertical struts 413 and buttresses 414 (not dissimilar to vertical struts 13, 14 of RAM1), which are also connected to the bearing mounts with radial brace beams 416 (similar to beams 16) either free floating relative to the bearing mounts or diametrically connected to another buttress-type brace support to provide a radial brace structure comprising two such buttress-type brace supports. In yet another embodiment, the RAM has spoke buttress-type brace supports as generally described herein, without any bearing support structures as required for RAM1.

[0044] A first of the buttress-type brace supports 400 has a first vertical strut 413 extending from a first top end 413A to a first bottom end 413B and a first radially extending buttress 414 extending from a first top end 414A to a first anchor end 414B. The first top end 414A is connected to the first top end 413A of the first vertical strut 413. The first anchor end 414B is connected to a first one of the top portions 9 of one of the first segments 6A and the first bottom end 413B of the first vertical strut 413 is connected to a first portion of the upper rotor bearing housing mount 7.

[0045] In some embodiments, a second one of the buttress-type brace supports 400' has a second vertical strut 413' extending from a second top end 413B' to a second bottom end (413B') and a second radially extending buttress 414' extending from a second top end 414A' to a second anchor end 414B'. The second top end 414A' is connected to the second top end 413A' of the second vertical strut 413'. The second anchor end 414B' is connected to a second top portion 9' of another first segment 6A, and the second bottom end 413B' of the second vertical strut 413' is connected to a second portion of the upper rotor bearing housing mount 7.

[0046] In some embodiments, the brace beam 416 extends from a first beam end 416A to a second beam end 416B. The first beam end 416A is connected to a first upper end 413B of the first vertical strut 413 and the second beam end 416B is connected to a second upper end 413B' of the second vertical strut 413'.

[0047] In yet another further embodiment, as shown in Figure 2A, a large diameter RAM similar to applicant's LoPro™ RAM 200 shown in Figure 2 may have a plurality of circumferentially spaced radial brace-type structures rigidly attached directly or indirectly to each other to define a cage having buttress-type outriggers extending radially outwardly of a gap disposed above the central hub of the upper spoked stator. Advantageously, an upper bearing may be located in or below the gap above or below the upper surface of the upper spoked sector. The bearing may also be supported by a bearing support structure according to other aspects of the invention.

[0048] The structure shown in Figure 6 is shown in Figure 2A as installed on the LoPro™ RAM 200 of Figure 2. Additionally, the structure shown in Figure 6 can be installed on a RAM 1 by attaching the buttresses to the outer ring 11 and the vertical struts to the inner ring 10 or radial spokes 12, straddling the mounts 7.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 2A, a support structure 200 for a rotary regenerative heat exchanger 207 comprises an upper section 201 comprising an upper ring 203 having a first outer surface 22, a rotor bearing housing 211, and three or more upper spokes 212, each of which extends between the upper ring 203 and the rotor bearing housing 211 and is fixed thereto at a respective end. The support structure 200 includes a lower section 202 configured to be supportable in use by a base mounting structure 208, 209 attached to a base. The lower section 202 is spaced apart from the upper section 201. The support structure 200 comprises a plurality of support members 70. Each of the plurality of support members 70 is directly or indirectly secured to the upper ring 203 and the lower section 202, thereby forming an annular space between the upper ring 203 and the lower section 202. The annular space is configured to receive a compartment of a rotor assembly. The rotor bearing housing 211, the upper spokes 212, and the support members 70 cooperate to provide stiffness to the support structure 200 such that the support members 70 cooperate to support and transfer the weight of the upper spokes 212, the upper ring 203, and the rotor bearing housing 211 to the lower section 202. In some embodiments, the first buttress-type brace support 400 has a first vertical strut 413 extending from a first top end 413A to a first bottom end 413B. The first buttress-type brace support 400 has a first radially extending buttress 414 extending from a first top end 414A to a first anchor end 414B. The first top end 414A is connected to the first top end 413A of the first vertical strut 413. The first anchor end 414B is connected to a first portion of the top ring 202 and a first bottom end 413B of the first vertical strut 413 is connected to a first portion of the rotor bearing housing 211.

[0050] In some embodiments, in a second buttress-type brace support 400' having a second vertical strut 413' extending from a second top end 413B' to a second bottom end 414B' and a second radially extending buttress 414' extending from a second top end 413A' to a second anchor end 413B', the second top end 414A' is connected to the second top end 414A' of the second vertical strut 413'. The second anchor end 414B' is connected to a second portion of the upper ring (202) and the second bottom end 413B' of the second vertical strut 413' is connected to a second portion of the rotor bearing housing 211.

[0051] In some embodiments, the brace beam 416 extends from a first beam end 416A to a second beam end 416B. The first beam end 416A is connected to a first upper end 413B of the first vertical strut 413 and the second beam end 416B is connected to a second upper end 413B' of the second vertical strut 413'.

[0052] In one embodiment, the pedestal 6 extends from the upper extent of the RAM to the base on which the RAM sits, similar to the pedestal 108 of the conventional APH 100. In the currently illustrated embodiment, a modular design embodying the second aspect of the invention is disclosed having a support structure 2 comprising a first upper module 19 attached to a second segment 6B of the pedestal 6 at a lower portion 20 of a first segment 6A of the pedestal 6 to a second lower module 21. To facilitate transportation, in one embodiment, the upper module 19 and the lower module 21 are removably attachable to one another, for example, via an attachment mechanism 22. In one embodiment, the attachment mechanism 22 is between the first module 19 and the second module 21, connecting the first module 19 to the second module 21. The attachment mechanism 22 is also attached to the lower stator 5.

[0053] It should be understood that once assembled, the two modules 19, 21 may be permanently welded together. The invention is not limited in this regard, and in alternative embodiments, it is envisioned that the upper module 19 and the lower module 21 are unitarily / integrally manufactured, i.e., manufactured as one piece.

[0054] In another embodiment, the modular construction does not include the bearing support structure 8 and buttress 14 as described herein without departing from the essence of this second aspect of the invention.

[0055] 4 illustrates a rotor assembly 3 embodying another aspect of the invention that, unlike RAM 1, can be used in RAM designs (not shown) that do not embody the other previously described aspects of the invention. The rotor assembly 3 is of modular construction and includes an upper rotor post 30, a lower rotor post 31, a large diameter cylindrical intermediate center section or hub 32, an upper disc beam 33, and a lower disc beam 34. The hub 32 is disposed between and attached to the upper disc beam 33 and the lower disc beam 34, defining an annular space therebetween. In one embodiment, the annular space 42 within the upper disc beam 33 and / or the annular space within the lower disc beam 34 contains a medium, e.g., a heat transfer medium, a regeneration medium, an absorption medium, a chemical reaction medium, that is removably disposed therein.

[0056] In use, the rotor assembly 3 is rotatably supported at its upper end by an upper rotor post 30 and an upper rotor bearing 35 attached to the rotor bearing housing mount 7. In addition, the rotor assembly 3 is supported both rotationally and axially at its lower end by a lower rotor bearing support assembly 37 together with a drive gearbox unit 38 and a drive pedestal 39.

[0057] The cylindrical hub 32 has a horizontal or flat upper surface 32U and a horizontal or flat lower surface 32L. The upper disc beam 33 is a ring having an inner peripheral flange 33F and an outer peripheral edge 33R with a plurality of radial slots or openings 42 disposed therebetween, the inner peripheral flange 33F being attached to the hub 32. Disposed below and parallel to the upper disc beam 33 is the lower disc beam 34. The lower disc beam 34 includes an inner peripheral flange 34F and an outer peripheral edge 34R with a plurality of radial slots or openings 42 disposed therebetween, the inner peripheral flange 34F being attached to the hub 32. The openings 42 of the upper disc beam 33 are axially aligned with the openings 42 of the lower disc beam 34.

[0058] 4, in one embodiment, a ring of mechanical fasteners 36 adjacent the periphery of the hub 32 suitably secures an inner circumferential flange 33F of the upper disc beam 33 by bolting it to the upper surface 32U of the hub. Similarly, a ring of mechanical fasteners (not shown) secures an inner circumferential flange 34F of the lower disc beam 34 by bolting it to the lower surface 32L of the hub. The invention is not limited in this respect, and the upper disc beam 33 and / or lower disc beam 34 may be attached to the hub 32 by welding, epoxy, soldering, or brazing.

[0059] The beams 33, 34 are paired, each of an annular unitary structure having an inner annular portion 40 radially coextensive with the hub 32, intermediate the inner portion 40 and the peripheral portion 33R, 34R of the beam 33 or 34, and CO 2 Carrier gases (e.g., flue gas, atmospheric gas, and CO liberated by the TSA medium) 2and a removable TSA media receptacle, holder, basket, cassette or cartridge receiving annular portion 41 having a plurality of radial slots 42 through which an isolating gas (isolation gas carrying TSA media) can pass. Each of the beams 33, 34 has a plurality of radial vanes 43 axially coextensive with the hub 32 attached to the beam between immediately adjacent slots 42 and extending axially away therefrom to define partial side walls of a compartment for a removable receptacle of TSA media that is operatively axially gas permeable. As can be seen from FIG. 4, the vanes 43 of the upper beam 33 are coextensive with and extend downwardly therefrom the hub 32 and the vanes 43 of the lower beam 34 are similarly coextensive with and extend upwardly therefrom to form a compartment between the beams 33, 34 that surrounds the outer periphery of the hub 32.

[0060] Referring again to the previous embodiment of the invention, the bearing support structure 8 may be of unitary / integral design or welded fabrication. However, as clearly shown in FIG. 5, for ease of transportation and on-site assembly, the mount 7 and beam 16 are constructed as a single welded component 50, and the vertical strut 13 and buttress 14 are constructed together as separate welded components 51. During assembly, the paired components 50, 51 are bolted together by fasteners 52. In another embodiment (not shown), buttress 13 can connect the pedestal 6 to the upper rotor bearing housing mount 7, thereby eliminating the need for a separate beam 16, without departing from the essence of this aspect of the invention.

[0061] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, various modifications, adaptations, and variations of the specific disclosures set forth above may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed herein. The various features and elements of the invention described herein may be combined in different ways from the specific examples described or claimed herein without departing from the scope of the invention. In other words, any element or feature may be combined with any other element or feature in different embodiments, unless there is an obvious or inherent incompatibility between the two or it is specifically excluded.

[0062] References herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," and the like, may indicate that the embodiment being described may include a particular aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include the aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment that is referenced in other parts of this specification. Moreover, when a particular aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art to affect or connect such aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic to other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0063] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to a "plant" includes a plurality of such plants. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude optional elements. Thus, this statement is intended to serve as a predicate for the use of exclusive terms such as "solely," "only," and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements or the use of a "negative" limitation. The terms "preferably," "preferred," "prefer," "optionally," "may," and similar terms are used to indicate that a referred item, condition, or step is an optional (but not required) feature of the invention.

[0064] The term "and / or" means any one of the items, any combination of the items, or all of the items with which this term is associated. The phrase "one or more" is readily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, especially when read in the context of its usage.

[0065] Each numerical value or measurement herein is modified by the term "about." The term "about" can refer to a variation of ±5%, ±10%, ±20%, or ±25% of the specified value. For example, "about 50" percent can have a variation of 45 to 55 percent in some embodiments. With respect to integer ranges, the term "about" can include one or two integers greater than and / or less than the recited integers at each end of the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, the term "about" is intended to include values ​​and ranges adjacent to the recited range that are equivalent with respect to the functionality of the composition or embodiment.

[0066] Terminology referring to direction or position, i.e., vertical, horizontal, upper, lower, etc., is used for the convenience of the reader and is not meant to limit in any way the structure or function of the invention unless specifically stated herein.

[0067] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, particularly with respect to providing a written description, all ranges recited herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of those subranges, as well as the individual values, particularly integer values, that make up the range. A recited range (e.g., weight percent of carbon groups) includes each specific value, integer, decimal, or identity within the range. Any recited range can be easily recognized as fully descriptive and allowing the same range to be broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, or tenths. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be easily broken down into a lower third, middle third, upper third, etc.

[0068] Also, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, all language such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," "greater than," "greater than or equal to," etc., is inclusive of the recited numbers, and such terms refer to ranges that may subsequently be broken down into subranges, as discussed above. Similarly, all ratios recited herein also include all subratios that fall within the broader ratio. Thus, the specific values ​​recited for radicals, substituents, and ranges are for illustrative purposes only. They do not exclude other defined values ​​or other values ​​within defined ranges for radicals and substituents.

[0069] Those skilled in the art will also readily recognize that when members are grouped together in a general manner, such as in a Markush group, the invention encompasses not only the entire group recited as a whole, but also each individual member of the group and all possible subgroups of the main group. Moreover, for all purposes, the invention encompasses not only the main group, but also the main group in which one or more of the group members are absent. Thus, the invention contemplates the explicit exclusion of any one or more of the members of a recited group. Thus, provisos may be applied to any of the disclosed categories or embodiments, whereby any one or more of the recited elements, species, or embodiments may be excluded from such category or embodiment, for example, as used in an express negative limitation.

Claims

1. A support structure (2) for a rotary regenerator or rotary absorber (RAM) (1), comprising: an upper stator (4) and a lower stator (5) axially spaced apart from each other by first segments (6A) of at least two pedestals (6), the first segments (6A) of each pedestal (6) extending between the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5); an upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) disposed above a lower surface (4L) of the upper stator (4) and attached to the upper stator (4) by at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8); A support structure (2), wherein a radially inner end of at least one of the radially extending bearing support structures (8) is attached to the bearing housing mount (7) and a radially outer end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) is proximate to a top (9) of the first segment (6A) of each of the pedestals (6).

2. 2. The support structure (2) of claim 1, wherein the upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) is disposed above an upper surface (4U) of the upper stator (4).

3. The upper stator (4) has an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (11), the inner ring and the outer ring being attached to each other by a number of radial spokes (12) extending between the inner ring and the outer ring; 2. The support structure (2) of claim 1, wherein the bearing support structure (8) transfers bearing loads axially to the upper stator (4) at or adjacent to the inner ring (10).

4. The upper stator (4) has an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (11), the inner ring and the outer ring being attached to each other by a number of radial spokes (12) extending between the inner ring and the outer ring; the bearing support structure (8) comprises axially extending load-bearing struts (13) and radial load-bearing buttresses (14) extending upwardly from the radial periphery of the bearing support structure (8), an upper portion (13b) of the struts (13) being attached adjacent an upper end (14b) of the buttresses (14); 2. The support structure (2) of claim 1, wherein the bearing housing mounts (7) are attached to the inner stator ring (10), axially supported by the struts (13), and radially supported by the buttresses (14), which are directly or indirectly attached to an upper surface (15) of a first segment (6A) of a corresponding pedestal (6).

5. 4. A support structure (2) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the bearing support structure (8) is attached to the bearing housing mount (7) by beams (16) extending radially outward from the struts (13) and the buttresses (14).

6. 2. The support structure (2) according to claim 1, wherein each of the pedestals (6) further comprises a second segment (6B) axially attached to the first segment (6A), the upper portion (9A) of the second segment (6B) being adjacent to the lower stator (5).

7. At least one of the first segments (6A) of the pedestal (6) comprises two parallel posts (17A), each of the two parallel posts (17A) having an upper end; 2. The support structure (2) according to claim 1, wherein the upper end of each of the two parallel columns (17A) is attached to a connecting member (18), each connecting member (18) being attached to the outer stator ring (11) and the buttress (14) of the upper stator (4).

8. A support structure (2) according to claim 1, having a rotor assembly (3) housed therein.

9. A modular support structure (2) for a rotary player or RAM (1), comprising: An upper module (19), an upper stator (4) configured as a structural support member having a lower surface (4L); an upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) disposed above the lower surface (4L); an upper module (19) comprising at least two supporting pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a first segment (6A) having an upper portion (9) and a lower portion (20); A lower module (21), A lower stator (5); and a lower module (21) comprising at least two supporting pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a second segment (6B) having an upper portion (9A) and a lower portion (20A), wherein, when assembled, the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5) are spaced apart by each of the first segments (6A) of the pedestals (6), each of the first segments (6A) extending between and attached to the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5); 2. The support structure (2) of claim 1, wherein each upper portion (9) of each first segment (6A) of the pedestal (6) is attached to the upper stator (4), each lower portion (20) of each first segment (6A) of the pedestal (6) is attached to the lower stator (5), and the lower portion (20) of the first segment (6A) is attached to the upper portion (9A) of the second segment (6B).

10. 10. The modular support structure (2) of claim 9, wherein the upper stator (4) has an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (11) attached to each other by a number of radial spokes (12) extending between the inner ring (10) and the outer ring (11), and in use, axial bearing loads are transmitted by the upper stator (4) at or adjacent to the inner ring (10).

11. 10. The modular support structure (2) according to claim 9, wherein the upper stators (4) of the upper modules (19) have a substantially similar geometric shape as the lower stators (5) of the lower modules (21).

12. 10. The modular support structure (2) according to claim 9, wherein the rotor assembly (3) is housed therein.

13. 10. The modular support structure (2) of claim 9, further comprising at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8), the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) being attached to the mount (7), and a radially outer end of the at least one radially extending bearing support structure (8) being adjacent to an upper portion (9) of a corresponding one of the first segments (6A) of the pedestal (6).

14. A module (19) for use in a modular support structure (2), comprising: an upper stator (4) configured as a structural support member having a lower surface (4L); an upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) disposed above the lower surface (4L); A module (19) comprising: at least two supporting pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a first segment (6A) having an upper portion (9) and a lower portion (20).

15. The rotor assembly (3) An upper rotor post (30); A lower rotor post (31); an intermediate central portion or hub (32) of larger diameter than said upper and lower rotor posts; An upper disk beam (33); A lower disc beam (34); an upper rotor bearing (35) attached to the upper rotor post (30); 9. The support structure (2) of claim 8, wherein the hub (32) is disposed between and attached to the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34), thereby defining an annular space between the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34).

16. 16. The support structure (2) of claim 15, wherein the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34) of the rotor assembly (3) are attached to the hub by one of welding, fasteners, epoxy, soldering, and brazing.

17. 16. The support structure (2) of claim 15, wherein the hub (32) of the rotor assembly (3) has an upper surface (32U) and the upper disk beam (33) of the rotor assembly (3) is an annular structure having an inner circumferential flange (33F) seated on the outer periphery of the upper surface (32U), and the hub (32) and the inner circumferential flange (33F) are attached to each other and held in place by a plurality of mechanical fasteners (36).

18. 16. The support structure (2) of claim 15, wherein the hub (32) of the rotor assembly (3) has a lower surface (32L) and the lower disk beam (34) of the rotor assembly (3) is an annular structure having an inner circumferential flange (34F) seated on an outer periphery of the lower surface (32L), and the hub (32) and the inner circumferential flange (34F) are attached to one another and held in place by a plurality of mechanical fasteners (not shown).

19. A modular support structure (2) for a rotary player or RAM (1), comprising: An upper module (19), an upper stator (4) configured as a structural support member having a lower surface (4L); an upper rotor bearing housing mount (7) disposed above the lower surface (4L); an upper module (19) comprising at least two supporting pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a first segment (6A) having an upper portion (9) and a lower portion (20); A lower module (21), A lower stator (5); and a lower module (21) comprising at least two supporting pedestals (6), each pedestal (6) comprising a second segment (6B) having an upper portion (9A) and a lower portion (20A), wherein, when assembled, the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5) are spaced apart by each of the first segments (6A) of the pedestals (6), each of the first segments (6A) extending between and attached to the upper stator (4) and the lower stator (5); A modular support structure (2), wherein each upper portion (9) of each first segment (6A) of the pedestal (6) is attached to the upper stator (4), each lower portion (20) of each first segment (6A) of the pedestal (6) is attached to the lower stator (5), and the lower portion (20) of the first segment (6A) is attached to the upper portion (9A) of the second segment (6B).

20. A rotor assembly (3) for a rotary regenerator or RAM (1), comprising: An upper rotor post (30); A lower rotor post (31); an intermediate central portion or hub (32) of larger diameter than said upper and lower rotor posts; An upper disk beam (33); A lower disc beam (34); an upper rotor bearing (35) attached to the upper rotor post (30); The hub (32) is disposed between and attached to the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34), thereby defining an annular space between the upper disc beam (33) and the lower disc beam (34), of the rotor assembly (3).

21. a first buttress-type brace support (400) having a first vertical strut (413) extending from a first top end (413A) to a first bottom end (413B) and a first radially extending buttress (414) extending from a first top end (414A) to a first anchor end (414B), said first top end (414A) being connected to said first top end (413A) of said first vertical strut (413); the first anchor end (414B) is connected to a first one of the upper portions (9) of one of the first segments (6A); 2. The support structure (2) of claim 1, wherein the first bottom end (413B) of the first vertical strut (413) is connected to a first portion of the upper rotor bearing housing mount (7).

22. a second buttress-type brace support (400') having a second vertical strut (413') extending from a second top end (413B') to a second bottom end (413B') and a second radially extending buttress (414') extending from a second top end (414A') to a second anchor end (414B'), said second top end (414A') being connected to said second top end (413A') of said second vertical strut (413'); the second anchor end (414B') is connected to a second one of the upper portions (9') of a second one of the first segments (6A); 22. The support structure (2) of claim 21, wherein the second bottom end (413B') of the second vertical strut (413') is connected to a second portion of the upper rotor bearing housing mount (7).

23. 23. The support structure (2) of claim 22, further comprising a brace beam (416) extending from a first beam end (416A) to a second beam end (416B), the first beam end (416A) being connected to the first upper end (413B) of the first vertical strut (413) and the second beam end (416B) being connected to the second upper end (413B') of the second vertical strut (413').

24. A support structure (200) for a rotary regenerative heat exchanger (207), comprising: an upper section (201) comprising a top ring (203) having a first outer surface (22), a rotor bearing housing (211), and at least three top spokes (212) each extending between said top ring (203) and said rotor bearing housing (211) and fixed at respective ends to said top ring (203) and said rotor bearing housing (211); a lower section (202) configured to be supportable in use by a foundation mounting structure (208, 209) attached to a foundation, the lower section (202) being spaced apart from the upper section (201); a plurality of support members (70), each of said plurality of support members (70) being directly or indirectly secured to said upper ring (203) and said lower section (202) thereby forming an annular space between said upper ring (203) and said lower section (202), said annular space being configured to receive a compartment of a rotor assembly; a plurality of support members (70), wherein the rotor bearing housing (211), the upper spokes (212), and the support members (70) cooperate to provide rigidity to the support structure (200), such that the support members (70) cooperate to support and transfer the weight of the upper spokes (212), the upper ring (203), and the rotor bearing housing (211) to the lower section (202); a first buttress-type brace support (400) having a first vertical strut (413) extending from a first top end (413A) to a first bottom end (413B) and a first radially extending buttress (414) extending from a first top end (414A) to a first anchor end (414B), said first top end (414A) being connected to said first top end (413A) of said first vertical strut (413); the first anchor end (414B) is connected to a first portion of the upper ring (202); a first buttress-type brace support (400), wherein the first bottom end (413B) of the first vertical strut (413) is connected to a first portion of the rotor bearing housing (211).

25. a second buttress-type brace support (400') having a second vertical strut (413') extending from a second top end (413B') to a second bottom end (413B') and a second radially extending buttress (414') extending from a second top end (414A') to a second anchor end (414B'), said second top end (414A') being connected to said second top end (413A') of said second vertical strut (413'); the second anchor end (414B') is connected to a second portion of the upper ring (202); The support structure (2) of claim 24, wherein the second bottom end (413B') of the second vertical strut (413') is connected to a second portion of the rotor bearing housing (211).

26. 26. The support structure (2) of claim 25, further comprising a brace beam (416) extending from a first beam end (416A) to a second beam end (416B), the first beam end (416A) being connected to the first upper end (413B) of the first vertical strut (413) and the second beam end (416B) being connected to the second upper end (413B') of the second vertical strut (413').

Images