Method for replacing plain bearing pads arranged on the rotor shaft of a rotor bearing of a wind turbine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for replacing plain bearing pads 18 arranged on a rotor shaft 16 of a rotor bearing 8 of a wind turbine 1, the method comprising the steps of moving the plain bearing pads 18 to be replaced to an extraction opening 41 by rotating the rotor shaft 16, loosening axial fixing elements 51 of the plain bearing pads 18 to be replaced, axially removing the plain bearing pads 18 to be replaced through the extraction opening 41, axially inserting new plain bearing pads 18 through the extraction opening 41, and fixing the new plain bearing pads 18 using the axial fixing elements 51. To axially remove the plain bearing pads 18 to be replaced and axially insert the new plain bearing pads, a plain bearing pad replacement device 83 is used, which includes an operating arm 94 movable relative to a base frame 84, the operating arm 94 being configured to be coupled to the plain bearing pads 18.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and assembly device for replacing individual plain bearing pads of a rotor bearing. [Background technology]

[0002] A bearing element for supporting a rotor hub of a wind turbine is known from US Pat. No. 5,623,999.

[0003] The plain bearing pads of a bearing of the type known from DE 10 200 04 133 A1 are difficult to replace due to their size. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2011 / 127510(A1) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The object of the present invention was to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and to provide a method and device for easily replacing individual plain bearing pads of a rotor bearing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The above problems are solved by the methods and devices set forth in the claims.

[0007] According to the present invention, there is provided a method for replacing plain bearing pads arranged on a rotor shaft of a rotor bearing of a wind turbine, the method comprising the steps of: moving the plain bearing pad to be replaced to the removal opening by rotating the rotor shaft; Loosening the axial fixing elements or fixing screws of the plain bearing pad to be replaced; Axial removal of the plain bearing pad to be replaced through the removal opening; axially inserting a new plain bearing pad through the removal opening; Fixing the new plain bearing pad using an axial fixing element or fixing screw. In order to axially remove the plain bearing pad to be replaced and to axially insert a new plain bearing pad, a plain bearing pad replacement device is used that has an operating arm configured to connect with the plain bearing pad. Furthermore, the operating arm can be configured to be movable relative to the base frame.

[0008] The method according to the invention offers the advantage that maintenance of wind turbines can be significantly simplified by using a sliding bearing pad replacement device or by axially removing the sliding bearing pads, which not only increases safety during operation but also efficiency.

[0009] It may further be advantageous if the operating arm is connected to the plain bearing pad by a connecting element, in particular a screw, and one end face of the plain bearing pad is formed with a profile element, in particular a screw thread, which cooperates with the connecting element, which has the advantage that the plain bearing pad can be easily connected to the operating arm by the connecting element and therefore can be easily replaced.

[0010] Furthermore, the base frame can be fixed to the rotor shaft by means of fixing elements, in particular tightening belts, which has the advantage that the bearing pad replacement device can be stably held in place and that any danger that may occur when replacing the bearing pads can be minimized.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, the base frame of the plain bearing pad changing device may be adapted to be attached to the shaft nut by fixing means.

[0012] In yet another alternative, the base frame can be fixed to the bearing block by fixing means, which has the advantage that the bearing pad replacement device can be held stably in place, minimizing any danger that may occur when replacing the bearing pads.

[0013] Furthermore, a lifting arm can be used to remove the plain bearing pad from the operating arm and to fix a new plain bearing pad to the operating arm, the lifting arm being fixed to the circumferential surface of the plain bearing pad so that the operating arm and the lifting arm are simultaneously fixed to the plain bearing pad. This has the advantage that the plain bearing pad can be pulled axially out of the outer ring element starting from its operating position by the plain bearing pad changing device and then removed from the operating arm by means of a lifting arm, for example a crane. When a new plain bearing pad is to be inserted, it can be lifted up to the operating arm by the lifting arm, held by the operating arm and axially inserted into its operating position by the operating arm in the reverse order.

[0014] Furthermore, the movement of the operating arm relative to the base frame of the plain bearing pad replacement device can be driven by a cordless screwdriver. This has the advantage that the plain bearing pad replacement device does not need to have its own drive device, and can be made as inexpensive and simple as possible. Furthermore, a cordless screwdriver is a standard tool that maintenance personnel usually carry with them at all times.

[0015] 1. A plain bearing pad replacement device for replacing plain bearing pads arranged on a rotor shaft of a rotor bearing of a wind turbine, A base frame; The actuator includes an operating arm that is movable relative to the base frame, the operating arm being configured to couple with the plain bearing pad.

[0016] The plain bearing pad replacement device according to the invention offers the advantage that the maintenance of wind turbines can be considerably simplified by using the plain bearing pad replacement device or by axially removing the bearing pads, which not only increases safety during work but also increases efficiency in addition.

[0017] According to a variant, the operating arm can be arranged on a guide carriage connected to a linear guide, and the guide carriage can be moved relative to the base frame by means of an adjustment spindle, which provides the advantage that the operating arm can be easily moved relative to the base frame in order to replace the bearing pads.

[0018] Furthermore, the adjusting spindle can be torque-coupled to the shaft end, which can be configured to be connected to a cordless screwdriver. This has the advantage that the plain bearing pad replacement device does not need to have its own drive and can therefore be constructed as inexpensively and simply as possible. Furthermore, a cordless screwdriver is a standard tool that maintenance personnel usually carry with them at all times. Alternatively, a hand crank can be arranged on the shaft end.

[0019] Furthermore, the first roller conveyor and the second roller conveyor are connected to the base frame, each having a plurality of support rollers, and the first roller conveyor and the second roller conveyor are arranged at a distance from each other, and an operating arm is arranged between the first roller conveyor and the second roller conveyor. The first roller conveyor and the second roller conveyor allow the plain bearing pads to be pulled out firmly from their seats in the plain bearings. At that time, the plain bearing pads rest on both roller conveyors, allowing them to be easily moved in the axial direction.

[0020] Furthermore, the first roller conveyor and the second roller conveyor may be bent downward at their front ends, which has the advantage that the plain bearing pads can easily move past the shaft nut fixed to the rotor shaft.

[0021] According to a special embodiment, the linear guide can be arranged at an angle to the shaft support surface of the base frame, which has the advantage that not only can the plain bearing pads be pulled axially out of their seats in the plain bearing, but also that the plain bearing pads can be lifted at the same time as they are pulled axially out.

[0022] Furthermore, the operating arm may have at least one first operating arm portion and a second operating arm portion, the first operating arm portion being configured to couple with the plain bearing pad, and the first operating arm portion being movable in the circumferential direction relative to the second operating arm portion, which provides the advantage that the plain bearing pad can be accurately positioned in its operating position.

[0023] Furthermore, the operating arm can be radially movable relative to the guide carriage, which provides the advantage that the plain bearing pad can be accurately positioned in its operating position.

[0024] According to an advantageous variant, the operating arm can be arranged on the lifting carriage of the lifting device, which serves to increase the distance between the operating arm and the linear guide, which has the advantage that the plain bearing pads can be actively lifted and removed from the rotor bearing.

[0025] In particular, it may be advantageous if the operating arm has at least one first operating arm part and a second operating arm part, the first operating arm part being configured for connection with a plain bearing pad, the first and second operating arm parts being connected to one another by a first rotary joint, the first operating arm part together with the plain bearing pad connected thereto being supported pivotably relative to the second operating arm part, which provides the advantage that the plain bearing pad can be rotated out or extracted from its plain bearing seat by a combined axial and rotational movement.

[0026] Furthermore, the second operating arm part can be pivotally connected to the lifting carriage of the lifting device by a second rotary joint, which further simplifies disassembly of the plain bearing pad.

[0027] Furthermore, the first rotary joint can have a first rotation angle limiter that limits the pivot angle between the first operating arm part and the second operating arm part, in particular to a pivot angle of less than 10°, preferably less than 5°, and / or the second rotary joint can have a second rotation angle limiter that limits the pivot angle between the second operating arm part and the lifting carriage of the lifting device, in particular to a pivot angle of less than 10°, preferably less than 5°. This has the advantage that the plain bearing pad changing device allows a certain pivoting possibility, in particular on one of the operating arms, to tilt the plain bearing pads, while at the same time, by limiting the rotation angle, the plain bearing pads can be lifted despite a tilting moment being introduced due to the eccentricity of the fixing point of the plain bearing pads.

[0028] For a better understanding of the invention, a more detailed description will now be given with reference to the following figures.

[0029] The figures are each shown in a highly simplified schematic representation. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a wind turbine. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the sliding bearing. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of a first embodiment of the sliding bearing. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a vertical cross section of a sliding bearing according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a longitudinal section of a first embodiment of a sliding bearing, without showing the cover. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the outer ring element. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a rotor bearing in which a sliding bearing pad is arranged. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view of a sliding bearing according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a vertical cross section of a sliding bearing according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a sliding bearing according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an outer ring element of a third embodiment of the sliding bearing. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a first perspective view showing a bearing pad of a sliding bearing according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a second perspective view showing a sliding bearing pad of a third embodiment of the sliding bearing. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a third perspective view showing a bearing pad of a third embodiment of the sliding bearing. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a first perspective view showing a first embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a second perspective detailed view showing the first embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a first perspective view showing a second embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a second perspective view showing the second embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device. [Figure 19]FIG. 19 is a first perspective view showing another embodiment of a plain bearing in which a plain bearing pad is screwed to a plain bearing pad retaining ring. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a plain bearing in which the plain bearing pad is screwed to the plain bearing pad retaining ring. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows an example of the lifting arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] It should be noted at the outset that the same elements in the different embodiments described are designated by the same reference numerals or part names. In this case, the disclosure contained in the entire description applies mutatis mutandis to the same elements having the same reference numerals or part names. Positional terms selected in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., also refer to the displayed figures directly described, and these positional terms also apply mutatis mutandis to the new positions if the positions change.

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a wind turbine for generating electrical energy from wind power. The wind turbine 1 has a nacelle 2 that is rotatably held on a tower 3. The nacelle 2 includes a nacelle housing 4 that forms the main structure of the nacelle. Inside the nacelle housing 4 of the nacelle 2, the electrical components of the wind turbine 1, such as the generator, are arranged.

[0033] Furthermore, a rotor 5 is formed having a rotor hub 6 and rotor blades 7 attached thereto. The rotor hub 6 is considered to be part of the nacelle. The rotor hub 6 is rotatably held in the nacelle housing 4 by rotor bearings 8. In particular, a plain bearing 9 according to the present invention, which will be described in more detail below, is adapted to be used as the rotor bearing 8. In particular, the rotor hub 6 can be arranged on a rotor shaft 16, such that the rotor shaft 16 is supported by the rotor bearings 8.

[0034] The rotor bearing 8, which supports the rotor hub 6 in the nacelle housing 4 of the nacelle 2, is configured to absorb radial and axial forces 10 and 11. The axial force 11 is caused by wind force. The radial force 10 is caused by the rotor's gravity and acts on the center of gravity of the rotor 5. Since the center of gravity of the rotor 5 is outside the rotor bearing 8, the radial force 10 causes a tilting moment 12 in the rotor bearing 8. The tilting moment 12 can also be caused by uneven loading of the rotor blades 7. This tilting moment 12 can be absorbed by a second bearing located at a distance from the rotor bearing 8. The second bearing can be formed, for example, in the area of ​​the generator.

[0035] Figure 2 shows a first embodiment of a plain bearing 9 mounted in a nacelle 2. Of course, the plain bearing 9 shown in Figure 2 can also be used in any industrial application other than wind turbines. In Figure 2, the plain bearing 9 is shown in a perspective view.

[0036] In FIG. 3 a first embodiment of the sliding bearing 9 is shown in longitudinal section.

[0037] The sliding bearing 9 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0038] 2 and 3, the plain bearing 9 can have an inner ring element 13 and an outer ring element 14. A plain bearing element 15 is arranged between the inner ring element 13 and the outer ring element 14, and this plain bearing element 15 acts as a plain bearing for the inner ring element 13, which rotates relative to the outer ring element 14.

[0039] 2 and 3, the inner ring element 13 is formed as the rotor shaft 16. Of course, the inner ring element 13 can also be a separate shaft. It is also conceivable that the inner ring element 13 is formed as an independent part and is held on a shaft, in particular on the rotor shaft 16.

[0040] As can be seen particularly well in Figure 3, the outer ring element 14 can be held in a bearing block 17. In particular, the bearing block 17 can be connected to the nacelle housing 4 or, alternatively, can be molded directly into the nacelle housing 4. In this embodiment, the outer ring element 14 is thereby rigidly connected to the nacelle housing 4, and the inner ring element 13 can be rotatable relative to the outer ring element 14 about the axis of rotation 19 by means of the plain bearing element 15.

[0041] Furthermore, the bearing block 17 can directly function as the outer ring element 14 .

[0042] As a result, the rotor shaft 16 is rotatably held within the nacelle housing 4 by the sliding bearing 9 .

[0043] As can be further seen from FIGS. 2 and 3, the plain bearing element 15 comprises a plurality of individual plain bearing pads 18 distributed circumferentially between the inner ring element 13 and the outer ring element 14 .

[0044] 3, the individual plain bearing pads 18 are rigidly connected to the inner ring element 13 in the operating state of the plain bearing 9 and thus rotate together with the inner ring element 13 relative to the outer ring element 14. To enable rotational movement between the inner and outer ring elements 13, each individual plain bearing pad 18 is formed with a bearing surface 20 which, in the operating state of the plain bearing 9, abuts against a counter surface 21 of the outer ring element 14. The counter surface 21 is arranged on an inner surface 22 of the outer ring element 14.

[0045] The bearing surface 20 of the plain bearing pad 18 and the counter surface 21 of the outer ring element 14 are configured as sliding surfaces that slide against each other during operation of the plain bearing 9. In particular, the counter surface 21 of the outer ring element 14 is configured as a wear-resistant, hard surface, which can be made of hardened steel, for example. The counter surface 21 of the plain bearing pad 18 can be made of a softer plain bearing material compared to the counter surface. Of course, it is also conceivable for the bearing surface 20 to be provided with a sliding coating.

[0046] As can be seen particularly clearly in FIG. 3, each of the plain bearing pads 18 may have a bearing surface 20 that is curved when viewed in the axial direction.

[0047] As can be further seen in Figure 3, the bearing surface 20 has a first diameter 24 in the region of the first end face 23 of the four bearing pads 18. The diameter of the bearing surface 20 can increase from this first end face toward an apex 25. At the apex 25, the bearing surface 20 can have a diameter 26.

[0048] The diameter of the bearing surface 20 may increase from the apex 25 towards a second end face 27 of the plain bearing pad 18. The bearing surface 20 may have a second diameter 28 in the region of the second end face 27.

[0049] In particular, a spherical crown portion 29 is formed between the first end face 23 and the apex 25. The spherical crown portion 29 may have the basic shape of a spherical crown having a spherical crown radius 30.

[0050] Furthermore, the apex 25 may be located at a distance 33 from the second end face 27 of the plain bearing pad 18. The plain bearing pad 18 may have an axial extension 34.

[0051] Figure 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a sliding bearing 9, and here too the same reference numerals or names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 3. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference should be made to or reference should be made to the detailed explanation in the previous Figures 1 to 3.

[0052] 4, a cover 36 may be arranged on an axial end face 35 of the bearing block 17. This cover 36 is used to close the interior of the bearing block 17.

[0053] As can be further seen in Figure 4, a lubricant reservoir 37 can be connected to the cover 36, which serves to contain lubricant 38. In particular, in this case, a through hole 39 can be provided in the cover 36, through which the lubricant 38 can flow from the lubricant reservoir 37 into the interior of the bearing block 17.

[0054] Figure 5 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a sliding bearing 9, and here too the same reference numerals or names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 4. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, attention should be paid to or reference should be made to the detailed explanations in the previous Figures 1 to 4.

[0055] For clarity, the cover 36 and the lubricant container 37 are not shown in Figure 5, so that the internal components of the sliding bearing 9 are visible.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 5, the outer ring element 14 is formed with extraction openings 41 that are used to remove the individual plain bearing pads 18 axially.

[0057] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the outer ring element 14, and again the same reference numerals or element names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 5. To avoid unnecessary repetition, attention should be paid to or reference should be made to the detailed description in the previous Figures 1 to 5.

[0058] In FIG. 6 the outlet opening 41 is particularly clearly visible.

[0059] As can be seen from Figures 5 and 6, the outlet opening 41 can at least partially interrupt the mating surface 21 formed in the outer ring element 14. In particular, the outlet opening 41 can start from a first end face 42 of the outer ring element 14. In particular, the outlet opening 41 can extend to a second end face 43 of the outer ring element 14. Conversely, the outlet opening 41 can also extend only to the apex 25.

[0060] 3 and 6, the outlet opening 41 can be formed so as to widen in the radial direction towards the first end face 42. In particular, in this case, a first outlet opening region 45 and a second outlet opening region 46 are formed, which have different radial extents. Furthermore, the outlet opening region 46 closer to the first end face 42 of the outer ring element 14 has a larger radial extent than the first outlet opening region.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment not shown, it is of course also possible for the outlet opening 41 to extend radially completely through the outer ring element 14 .

[0062] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the rotor shaft 16 and the plain bearing pads 18 arranged thereon, and here again the same reference numerals or names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 6. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference should be made to or reference should be made to the detailed description in the previous Figures 1 to 6.

[0063] 6 and 7 together, the outlet opening 41 may have a circumferential extension 47. The individual plain bearing pads 18 may have a circumferential extension 48.

[0064] As can be seen particularly well in Figure 5, a shaft nut 49 can be formed that can be screwed onto the rotor shaft 16. The shaft nut 49 can be formed with an axial fixing element holder 50 that serves to hold individual axial fixing elements 51. In particular, the axial fixing element holder 50 has a threaded hole into which the individual axial fixing elements 51 can be radially screwed by means of a fixing screw 52.

[0065] Furthermore, the axial fixing element 51 can have a wedge surface 54 on the axial end face 53. A first counter wedge surface 55 can be formed on a first end face of the plain bearing pad 18. In particular, the wedge surface 54 cooperates with or abuts against the first counter wedge surface 55.

[0066] As can be further seen from Figure 5, an axial stop ring 56 can be formed which serves to clamp the plain bearing pads 18 together with the axial fixing element 51. In particular, each plain bearing pad 18 can be clamped between the axial stop ring 56 and the axial fixing element 51 or between several axial fixing elements 51.

[0067] As can be seen in FIG. 5, the axial stop ring 56 can have a wedge surface 57 formed so that a positive connection can be achieved between the plain bearing pad 18 and the axial stop ring 56 .

[0068] As can be further seen in Figure 5, the bearing block 17 can have an axial stop 62 for the outer ring element 14. Furthermore, the axial stop 62 can have a recess 63 formed therein that corresponds to the outlet opening 41.

[0069] In the assembled state of the plain bearing 9, the outer ring element 14 is housed in a bearing block 17.

[0070] The axial stop ring 56 can be fixed to the rotor shaft 16. Furthermore, a shaft nut 49 can be screwed onto the rotor shaft 16. As can be seen in Figure 5, the individual plain bearing pads 18 can be clamped between the axial stop ring 56 and each at least one axial fixing element 51. By shaping the axial stop ring 56 or the axial fixing element 51, the plain bearing pads 18 can be connected in a positively clamping manner to the rotor shaft 16 both in the axial and radial directions.

[0071] The cover 36 can be removed from the bearing block 17 in order to replace the individual plain bearing pads 18. Alternatively, a maintenance opening may be formed in the cover 36, allowing access to the interior of the bearing block 17 through the cover 36.

[0072] In another alternative, cover 36 may be formed in segments so that it can be removed radially from rotor shaft 16 without having to be moved axially along rotor shaft 16. In this case, cover 36 may be formed in segments, for example, at the center plane.

[0073] Figures 8 to 11 show another, possibly independent, third embodiment of the sliding bearing 9, in which the same reference numerals or names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 9. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, attention should be paid to or reference should be made to the detailed description in the previous Figures 1 to 9.

[0074] As can be seen in FIG. 9, the rotor shaft 16 may have a rotor shaft flange 71 that is used to flange onto the rotor hub 6 .

[0075] As can be seen in Figure 10, spacers 73 may be formed on the individual plain bearing pads 18. These spacers 73 have the function of properly spacing the individual plain bearing pads 18 from one another in the circumferential direction. In particular, the spacers 73 may be formed on at least one of the circumferential surfaces 74 of the plain bearing pads 18, exclusively in the region of the inner surface 72, and may not extend beyond the entire height of the plain bearing pad 18. Furthermore, the spacers 73 may be formed on both circumferential surfaces 74 of the plain bearing pads 18.

[0076] As can be seen particularly well in Figure 11, an insert element 80 can be formed which is used to insert into the outlet opening 41 of the outer ring element 14. In the inserted state, the insert element 80 can complement or at least partially complement the counter surface 21. This improves the sliding properties.

[0077] Furthermore, the insert element 80 can be connectable to the outer ring element 14 by a connecting portion 81, in particular by a connecting groove. Furthermore, the insert element 80 can be fixed in place by a fixing element (not shown).

[0078] 12 to 14 show details of the sliding bearing 9 to sliding bearing pad 18 of the third embodiment in various perspective views, and here again the same reference numerals or names are used for the same parts as in the previous Figures 1 to 11. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference should be made to or reference should be made to the detailed explanation in the previous Figures 1 to 11.

[0079] As can be seen particularly clearly in FIG. 14, the inner surface 72 of the plain bearing pad 18 may be formed with a holding portion 70 for a positive connection with the lifting device.

[0080] 14, the plain bearing pad 18 can be provided on its first end face 23 with a shaped element 69, in particular a thread, which serves to hold a connecting element. By means of this shaped element 69, the plain bearing pad 18 can be connected to a plain bearing pad changing device 83.

[0081] Furthermore, recesses 82 can be formed in the area of ​​the shaping elements 69 which, in cooperation with the shaping elements 69 , are used to connect the plain bearing pads 18 with a plain bearing pad replacement device 83 .

[0082] 15 and 16 are perspective views showing a first embodiment of a sliding bearing pad replacement device 83 arranged on the rotor shaft 16 in the replacement position, and the same reference numerals or names are used here as for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 14. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, attention should be paid to or reference should be made to the detailed explanations in the previous Figures 1 to 14.

[0083] 15, the plain bearing pad changing device 83 can have a base frame 84 which can be provided with a shaft support surface 85. In particular, the base frame 84 can be supported on the rotor shaft 16 by its shaft support surface 85. Furthermore, in order to be able to fix the base frame 84 to the rotor shaft 16, the base frame 84 can be formed with recesses through which fixing elements 86, in particular tightening belts, can pass.

[0084] Furthermore, a linear guide 87 that guides a guide carriage 88 movably in the longitudinal direction can be arranged on the base frame 84. In particular, the guide carriage 88 can have a ball circulation guide, whereby the guide carriage 88 can be guided in the linear guide 87.

[0085] Furthermore, the linear guide 87 may be arranged at a predetermined angle 89 relative to the shaft support surface 85. This angle 89 may be 0.1° to 45°, particularly 1° to 30°, and preferably 5° to 15°.

[0086] Furthermore, the guide carriage 88 may be formed with a lifting device 90 having a lifting carriage 91. The lifting carriage 91 may be formed to be movable relative to the guide carriage 88 by a lifting guide 92. Furthermore, a lifting spindle 93 may be formed to make the lifting carriage 91 movable. In particular, the lifting spindle 93 may be connected to a cordless screwdriver so that it can be driven thereby.

[0087] As can be seen particularly clearly in FIG. 16 , the operating arm 94 can be connected to the lifting carriage 91. In particular, the operating arm 94 can have a first operating arm portion 95 and a second operating arm portion 96. The first operating arm portion 95 can be configured to connect to the plain bearing pad 18. In particular, the first operating arm portion 95 and the second operating arm portion 96 can be connected to each other by a first rotary joint 97. Furthermore, the second operating arm portion 96 can be connected to the lifting carriage 91 of the lifting device 90 by a second rotary joint 98. Furthermore, a first rotation angle limiter 99 can be formed in the region of the first rotary joint 97, the first rotation angle limiter 99 having the function of limiting the rotation angle between the first operating arm portion 95 and the second operating arm portion 96. Furthermore, a second rotation angle limiter 100 can be formed in the region of the second rotary joint 98, the second rotation angle limiter 100 having the function of limiting the rotation angle between the second operating arm portion 96 and the lifting carriage 91.

[0088] As can further be seen in Figure 16, the plain bearing pad 18 can be connected to the first operating arm part 95 of the operating arm 94 by a connecting element 101. The connecting element 101 can be formed, for example, in the form of a fastening screw. Furthermore, the first operating arm part 95 can be adapted to mold the recess 82 of the plain bearing pad 18, so that a form connection can be created between the plain bearing pad 18 and the first operating arm part 95.

[0089] 15, an adjustment spindle 102 may be formed to allow the guide carriage 88 to move in the linear guide 87. Furthermore, the adjustment spindle may be connected to a shaft end, and the shaft end may be configured to be connectable to a cordless screwdriver.

[0090] 17 and 18 are views showing a second embodiment of a sliding bearing pad replacement device 83, and here too the same reference numerals or names are used for the same components as in the previous Figures 1 to 16. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, attention should be paid to or reference should be made to the detailed explanations in the previous Figures 1 to 16.

[0091] 17 and 18, the plain bearing pad replacement device 83 includes a first roller conveyor 103 and a second roller conveyor 104, and a plurality of support rollers 105 may be arranged on each of the roller conveyors 103, 104. Furthermore, the plain bearing pad 18 may be formed with one support recess 108 or two support recesses 108 for supporting it on the support rollers 105 of the first roller conveyor 103 and the second roller conveyor 104, respectively.

[0092] As can be seen particularly clearly from Figure 18, the first roller conveyor 103 and the second roller conveyor 104 are arranged at a distance 106 from each other, allowing the sliding bearing pads 18 to rest stably on the first roller conveyor 103 and the second roller conveyor 104.

[0093] 17 and 18, this embodiment may also include an operating arm 94 having a first operating arm portion 95 and a second operating arm portion 96, the first operating arm portion 95 being configured for connection with a plain bearing pad, and the second operating arm portion 96 being capable of connection with a guide carriage.

[0094] As can be further seen from Figure 18, the first roller conveyor 103 and the second roller conveyor 104 can be folded downwards at their front ends 107. In particular in this case, the support rollers 105 can be arranged in one plane in the main parts of the first roller conveyor 103 and the second roller conveyor 104, and in the region of the front ends 107 can be arranged in another plane formed at an angle to the first plane.

[0095] Furthermore, a recess 109 corresponding to the shape of the shaft nut 49 can be formed in the area of ​​the front end 107, and the first roller conveyor 103 and the second roller conveyor 104 can be positioned on the shaft nut 49 so that the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced can be pulled out directly from its seat in the plain bearing.

[0096] The process of replacing each sliding bearing pad 18 will be explained below, but the actual replacement process will be explained separately based on the first embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device 83 and the second embodiment of the sliding bearing pad replacement device 83. The preparation work for replacing each sliding bearing pad 18 is the same in both embodiments, so it will be explained together.

[0097] The cover 36 can be removed to expose the plain bearing pads 18, or the openings in the cover 36 can be opened to make the plain bearing pads 18 axially accessible. The respective plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced can then be rotated in the area of ​​the removal opening 41. The axial fixing element 51 of the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced can then be loosened and removed, so that the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced is no longer fastened to the rotor shaft 16.

[0098] Alternatively, the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced can be moved axially, or optionally simultaneously radially outward, through the removal opening 41 to remove the bearing pad 18 from the interior of the bearing block 17. Alternatively, new bearing pads 18 can be inserted again in the reverse order into the interior of the bearing block 17 or fastened with the axial fixing elements 51. This process can be repeated for all bearing pads 18 to be replaced.

[0099] The interior of the bearing block 17 can then be closed again with the cover 36, making the plain bearing 9 operable again.

[0100] During the actual replacement process of the plain bearing pads 18 with the first embodiment of the plain bearing pad replacing device 83, the plain bearing pad replacing device 83 can be brought into position and fixed to the rotor shaft 16 or the shaft nut 49. The first operating arm part 95 can then be connected to the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced by means of the connecting element 101.

[0101] The guide carriage 88 can then be moved axially along the linear guide 87 to axially withdraw the plain bearing pad from its position.

[0102] Subsequently or in parallel with this, the lifting carriage 91 can be raised to lift the plain bearing pad 18 onto the shaft nut 49. The guide carriage 88 can then be moved further axially and the plain bearing pad 18 can be completely removed from the plain bearing 9.

[0103] When lifting the plain bearing pad 18, the first rotation angle limiter 99 or the second rotation angle limiter 100 causes a tilting moment because the plain bearing pad is eccentrically supported, but the plain bearing pad 18 can be safely lifted in an almost horizontal orientation or at a slight tilt.

[0104] The replacement of bearing pads by the sliding bearing pad replacing device 83 according to the second embodiment is performed as follows: The first operating arm part 95 is connected to the sliding bearing pad 18 to be replaced, and the guide carriage 88 is then moved along the linear guide 87 to axially pull out the sliding bearing pad 18 to be replaced from its position.

[0105] In this case, the support recess 108 first supports along the support roller 105 in the region of the front end 107 of the first roller conveyor 103 or the second roller conveyor 104. The plain bearing pad 18 is then pulled further along the support roller 105 by the operating arm 94 or the guide carriage 88 and slides out of its plain bearing position.

[0106] For both embodiments of the plain bearing pad replacement device 83, the insertion of new plain bearing pads is performed in the reverse order.

[0107] Figures 19 and 20 show another, possibly independent, fourth embodiment of the sliding bearing 9, in which the same reference numerals or names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 16. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference should be made to or reference should be made to the detailed description in the previous Figures 1 to 18.

[0108] 19 and 20 show only a single plain bearing pad 18 for simplicity, but similar to the previous embodiment, multiple plain bearing pads 18 can also be arranged evenly distributed around the circumference.

[0109] As can be seen from FIG. 20, the inner ring element 13 may be provided with a plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 which serves to retain the individual plain bearing pads 18 .

[0110] In particular, each plain bearing pad 18 can have a step 114 on its inner surface 72. The step 114 can form an abutment surface, and the plain bearing pad 18 can abut against the first end face 115 of the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 in the region of the step 114. This allows the plain bearing pad 18 to be positioned axially relative to the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110.

[0111] Furthermore, the step 114 may define a recess 116 formed in the inner surface 72 of the plain bearing pad 18. The recess 116 may start at the second end face of the plain bearing pad 18 and extend to the step 114. The recess 116 or the step 114 may be formed rotationally symmetrically.

[0112] In particular, the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 may be at least partially received in the recess 116 of the plain bearing pad 18 when the plain bearing pad 18 is mounted.

[0113] Furthermore, a plurality of threaded holes 111 can be formed in the first end surface of the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110. Corresponding to these threaded holes 111, one through hole 112, in particular a plurality of through holes 112, can be formed in each of the plain bearing pads 18.

[0114] Furthermore, a fixing screw 113 can be passed through the through hole 112 and screwed into the screw hole 111 , thereby performing the function of fixing the plain bearing pad 18 to the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 .

[0115] 20, the second end surface 117 of the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 can abut against the shaft protuberance 118. This allows the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 to be positioned axially on the inner ring element 13.

[0116] In the embodiment according to FIGS. 19 and 20, instead of loosening the axial fixing element 51 of the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced, the following method can be carried out.

[0117] The individual fixing screws 113 of the plain bearing pads to be replaced can be loosened and removed, so that the plain bearing pads 18 to be replaced are no longer fastened to the bearing pad retaining ring 110.

[0118] Alternatively, the plain bearing pad 18 to be replaced can be moved axially, or optionally simultaneously radially outward, through the removal opening 41 to remove the bearing pad 18 from the interior of the bearing block 17. Alternatively, a new bearing pad 18 can be inserted again into the interior of the bearing block 17 in the reverse order or fixed to the plain bearing pad retaining ring 110 with the fixing screws 113. This process can be repeated for all bearing pads 18 to be replaced.

[0119] Figure 21 shows a third embodiment of a bearing pad replacement device 83, where the same reference numerals or names are used for the same elements as in the previous Figures 1 to 20. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, reference should be made to or reference should be made to the detailed description in the previous Figures 1 to 20.

[0120] The third embodiment of the bearing pad changing device 83 can be used in particular to change the plain bearing pads 18 in plain bearing pad arrangements such as those provided in FIGS.

[0121] 21, the plain bearing pad changing device 83 can have a base frame 84 configured for connection with the bearing block 17. In particular, the base frame 84 can be screwed by means of fixing screws into threaded holes in the bearing block 17. The threaded holes in the bearing block 17 can be used to hold or fasten, for example, a bearing cover.

[0122] Furthermore, a linear guide 87 in the form of a guide rod may be fixed to the base frame 84, and the guide carriage 88 may be guided by the guide rod. Furthermore, an adjustment spindle 102 may be configured to move the guide carriage 88 relative to the base frame 84, and may be connected to a hand wheel 119 for initiating the rotational movement.

[0123] 21, the operating arm 94 can be connected to the guide carriage 88 by an operating arm fastening means 121, in particular a screw. Furthermore, a radial adjustment unit 120 can be formed between the guide carriage 88 and the operating arm 94, which is used to move the operating arm 94 radially relative to the guide carriage 88. The radial adjustment unit 120 can, for example, comprise an adjustment screw connected to the operating arm 94. In order to be able to adjust the operating arm 94 relative to the guide carriage 88, the operating arm fastening means 121 can be guided in an elongated guide.

[0124] As can be further seen in FIG. 21 , the operating arm 94 can include a first operating arm portion 95 and a second operating arm portion 96, where the first operating arm portion 95 is configured to couple with the plain bearing pad 18.

[0125] In particular, a guide groove 122 may be formed between the first operating arm portion 95 and the second operating arm portion 96. In this case, the first operating arm portion 95 may be guided in the guide groove 122 of the second operating arm portion 96, and the first operating arm portion 95 and the second operating arm portion 96 may be movable relative to each other. The first operating arm portion 95 and the second operating arm portion 96 may be connected to each other by operating arm portion fixing means 123.

[0126] As can be seen in Figure 21, the operating arm portion fixing means 123 can be in the form of a screw. Furthermore, a circumferential adjustment unit 124 can be configured that allows the first operating arm portion 95 to move in the circumferential direction relative to the second operating arm portion 96. In this case, the operating arm portion fixing means 123 can be held in an elongated hole holding portion in the second operating arm portion 96. The circumferential adjustment unit 124 can also have an adjustment screw.

[0127] Fig. 22 shows a first embodiment of a lifting arm 125 for removing a plain bearing pad 18 from the plain bearing pad replacement device 83 or for inserting a new plain bearing pad 18 into the plain bearing pad replacement device 83. As can be seen from Fig. 22, the lifting arm 125 can be fixed to the peripheral surface 74 of the plain bearing pad 18 by a fixing screw 126. The lifting arm 125 can have a lifting means holder 127 for connecting the lifting arm 125 to lifting means such as a crane.

[0128] Furthermore, the lifting means holder 127 can be adjustable relative to the lifting arm fixing screw 126, and the lifting arm 125 can be configured so that when the plain bearing pad 18 is oriented horizontally, the lifting means holder 127 moves through the center of mass of the lifting arm 125 together with the plain bearing pad 18.

[0129] The above examples show possible embodiments, and it should be noted at this point that the present invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments, but on the contrary, the individual embodiments can also be combined with one another in various ways, and this variation is within the ability of a person skilled in the art based on the teachings of the present invention regarding the technical operations.

[0130] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, in order to interpret the claims, the detailed description and the drawings must be taken into account. Individual features or combinations of features described in the different embodiments shown and described may constitute independent inventive solutions in themselves. The problems underlying these independent inventive solutions can be read from this description.

[0131] In describing the present invention, all references to ranges of values ​​should be understood to include any and all subranges within that range. For example, a reference to 1 to 10 should be understood to include all subranges from a lower limit of 1 to an upper limit of 10. That is, all subranges begin at a lower limit of 1 or more and end at an upper limit of 10 or less, such as 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0132] Finally, as a matter of formality, in order to make the structure easier to understand, some elements have been represented not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Wind turbine 2 Nacelle 3 towers 4 Nacelle housing 5 rotors 6 rotor hub 7 rotor blades 8 Rotor bearing 9. Plain bearings 10 Radial force 11 Axial force 12 Tilt Moment 13 Inner Ring Elements 14 outer ring elements 15 Plain bearing element 16 rotor shaft 17 Bearing block 18 Plain bearing pad 19 Rotation axis 20 bearing surface 21 Opposite side 22 Inner 23 First end surface 24 First Diameter 25 Vertex 26 Diameter of vertex 27 Second end face 28 Second Diameter 29 Crown part 30 crown radius 33 distance 34 Axial extension of plain bearing pad 35 Axial end face of bearing block 36 Cover 37 Lubricant container 38 Lubricating oil 39 Through holes 41 Extraction opening 42 first end face of outer ring element 43 second end face of outer ring element 45 first extraction opening area 46 Second extraction opening area 47 Circumferential extension of extraction opening 48 Circumferential extension of plain bearing pad 49 Shaft nut 50 Axial fixing element retainer 51 Axial fixation element 52 Fixing screw 53 Axial end face of axial fixing element 54 Wedge surface of axial fixation element 55 First mating wedge surface 56 Axial stop ring 57 Wedge surface of axial stop ring 62 Axial stopper 63 Recess 68 Stop ring segment 69 Shape elements of plain bearing pads 70 Lifting device holder 71 Rotor shaft flange 72 Inner 73 Spacer 74 Peripheral surface 75 Lubricant conveying groove 76 Second mating wedge surface 80 Insertion Elements 81 Connecting part 82 recess 83 Slide bearing pad replacement device 84 base frame 85 Shaft support surface 86 Fixed Elements 87 Linear Guide 88 Guide Carriage 89 angle 90 Lifting device 91 Lifting carriage 92 Lifting guide 93 Lifting spindle 94 Operating Arm 95 First operating arm part 96 Second operating arm part 97 First rotary joint 98 Second rotary joint 99 First rotation angle limiter 100 Second rotation angle limiter 101 Connected Elements 102 Adjustment spindle 103 No. 1 Roller Conveyor 104 Second Roller Conveyor 105 Support roller 106 Distance between the first and second roller conveyors 107 Front end 108 Support recess 109 Recess 110 Plain bearing pad retaining ring 111 screw hole 112 Through hole 113 Fixing screw 114 Step 115 First end face of plain bearing pad retaining ring 116 Recess 117 Second end face of plain bearing pad retaining ring 118 Shaft ridge 119 Handwheel 120 Radial adjustment unit 121 Operating arm fixing means 122 Guide groove 123 Operating arm portion fixing means 124 Circumferential adjustment unit 125 Lifting arm 126 Lifting arm fixing screw 127 Lifting means holding section

Claims

1. A method for replacing plain bearing pads (18) arranged on a rotor shaft (16) of a rotor bearing (8) of a wind turbine (1), comprising the steps of: moving the plain bearing pad (18) to be replaced to an extraction opening (41) by rotating the rotor shaft (16); Loosening the axial fixing element (51) or fixing screw (113) of the plain bearing pad (18) to be replaced; Axial removal of the plain bearing pad (18) to be replaced through the removal opening (41); Axial insertion of a new plain bearing pad (18) through said removal opening (41); and fixing a new plain bearing pad (18) using the axial fixing element (51) or the fixing screw (113), a sliding bearing pad replacement device (83) having an operating arm (94) is used for axially removing the sliding bearing pad (18) to be replaced and for axially inserting a new sliding bearing pad (18), the operating arm (94) being configured to couple with the sliding bearing pad (18).

2. 2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the operating arm (94) is connected to the plain bearing pad (18) by a connecting element (101), and one end face of the plain bearing pad (18) is formed with a shaped element (69) that cooperates with the connecting element (101).

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the base frame (84) is fixed to the rotor shaft (16) by means of fixing elements (86).

4. 2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the base frame (84) is fixed to the bearing block (17) by means of fixing elements (86).

5. 2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that a lifting arm (125) is used to remove the plain bearing pad (18) from the operating arm (94) and to fix a new plain bearing pad (18) to the operating arm (94), the lifting arm (125) being fixed to the peripheral surface (74) of the plain bearing pad (18) so that the operating arm (94) and the lifting arm (125) can be fixed to the plain bearing pad (18) simultaneously.

6. 2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the movement of the operating arm (94) relative to the base frame (84) of the sliding bearing pad changing device (83) is driven by a cordless screwdriver.

7. A plain bearing pad replacement device (83) for replacing plain bearing pads (18) arranged on a rotor shaft (16) of a rotor bearing (8) of a wind turbine (1), comprising: a base frame (84); an operating arm (94) movable relative to the base frame (84), the operating arm (94) configured to connect with the plain bearing pad (18); The operating arm (94) is disposed on a guide carriage (88) connected to a linear guide (87). Plain bearing pad replacement device (83).

8. A sliding bearing pad replacement device (83) as described in claim 7, characterized in that the guide carriage (88) is movable relative to the base frame (84) using an adjustment spindle (102).

9. 9. The sliding bearing pad changing device (83) according to claim 8, characterized in that the adjusting spindle (102) is torque-coupled to a shaft end, which is configured so that it can be coupled to a cordless screwdriver.

10. 8. The sliding bearing pad replacement device (83) according to claim 7, characterized in that a first roller conveyor (103) and a second roller conveyor (104) are connected to the base frame (84), the first roller conveyor (103) and the second roller conveyor (104) each have a plurality of support rollers (105), the first roller conveyor (103) and the second roller conveyor (104) are arranged at a distance (106) from each other, and the operating arm (94) is arranged between the first roller conveyor (103) and the second roller conveyor (104).

11. 11. The sliding bearing pad changing device (83) according to claim 10, characterized in that the first roller conveyor (103) and the second roller conveyor (104) are bent downwards at their front ends (107).

12. A sliding bearing pad replacement device (83) as described in claim 7, characterized in that the linear guide (87) is arranged at a predetermined angle (89) relative to the shaft support surface (85) of the base frame (84).

13. 8. The plain bearing pad changing device (83) according to claim 7, characterized in that the operating arm (94) has at least a first operating arm portion (95) and a second operating arm portion (96), the first operating arm portion (95) being configured to connect with the plain bearing pad (18), and the first operating arm portion (95) being movable in the circumferential direction relative to the second operating arm portion (96).

14. 8. The sliding bearing pad changing device (83) according to claim 7, characterized in that the operating arm (94) is radially movable relative to the guide carriage (88).

15. 8. The sliding bearing pad changing device (83) according to claim 7, characterized in that the operating arm (94) is arranged on a lifting carriage (91) of a lifting device (90), the lifting device (90) serving to increase the distance between the operating arm (94) and the linear guide (87).

16. The method described in claim 2, wherein the connecting element (101) is a screw and the shaping element (69) is a thread.

17. The method described in claim 3, wherein the fixing element (86) is a tightening belt.

Images