Winch apparatus

Abstract

A winch apparatus (5) for a wind turbine (2) has a supporting structure (33) having a first supporting structure element with a receiving device for receiving a flying-vehicle starting device (6) extending along a longitudinal direction, a first drum for winding up a traction means which is connected to a flying vehicle, the first drum being mounted rotatably about a first axis of rotation, and a second drum for winding up a traction means which is connected to a flying vehicle, the second drum being mounted rotatably about a second axis of rotation, the axes of rotation of the drums being arranged in a fixed position relative to the receiving device (8).

Description

[0001] winch device

[0002] The present patent application claims priority from German patent application DE 10 2024 209 121.9, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The invention relates to a winch device for a wind turbine. The invention also relates to a set comprising a winch device and a mast, a base system for a wind turbine, and a wind turbine.

[0004] Wind turbines come in various designs. In particular, in systems that convert wind energy into electrical energy using a tethered aircraft, the aircraft is connected to a winch via tethering lines.

[0005] Such a wind turbine is known, for example, from WO 2007 / 112 993 Al and from WO 2023 / 078 749 Al. A ground station for a wind turbine with a winch device is known from EP 3 245 399 B 1. A winch device for a wind turbine is known from WO 2014 / 040 716 Al.

[0006] One object of the invention is to improve a winch device for a wind turbine.

[0007] This problem is solved by different aspects of the present invention, either individually or in combination. The claims of the present application relate only to a selection of the (partial) aspects of the invention. This selection is not to be understood as limiting.

[0008] As is immediately and unambiguously apparent to a person skilled in the art from the following general description and from the description of exemplary embodiments, the invention comprises a plurality of at least partially independent (partial) aspects. These aspects, in particular those highlighted below, can each, individually, i.e., independently of one another, or in combination with other partial aspects, lead to advantages. In particular, they can form the subject matter of claims independently of other features.

[0009] Features presented below as optional (“may” / “may”) should be understood as such. Corresponding components or measures may be provided, but are not mandatory.

[0010] The disclosure of an optional feature should, in particular, include the disclosure of the corresponding complementary feature, even if this is not explicitly stated again in the description in a specific case. Specifically, this means that if the following text states: "The device may have feature A," this is understood to mean that the device does not necessarily have feature A; that is, in particular, that the device may also have the feature "not-A." Furthermore, the order in which features are disclosed is not to be understood as restrictive. In particular, features mentioned later are not to be understood as subordinate to or dependent on features mentioned earlier.

[0011] According to one aspect, the winch device comprises at least one drum, and in particular a plurality of drums, for winding a traction element connected to an aircraft, each of which is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation, and a support structure with a receptacle for a mast. The at least one drum is advantageously arranged relative to the support structure, and in particular relative to the mast, such that the position of its axis of rotation relative to the support structure, and in particular relative to the mast, is fixed.

[0012] This ensures that the path of the traction element, in particular the rope path, from the drum to the mast does not change even if the mast moves.

[0013] Preferably, all drums of the winch device are arranged in this way.

[0014] The mast can be part of the winch system. It can also form a set with the winch system.

[0015] The mast is generally a component of a launching system used to initiate flight operations of the aircraft. Generally, the winch system comprises a support structure on which a launching device for an aircraft is mounted, with the axes of rotation of the drums being fixed to the support structure, in particular to a component thereof. The launching device is, in particular, rigidly connected to the support structure, especially to a component thereof. The support structure serves, in particular, to support the launching device. The support structure also serves, in particular, to connect the launching device to a base or ground station of the wind turbine.

[0016] The drums are also called winches or rope winches.

[0017] The fixed arrangement of the drums relative to the support structure ensures that the cable geometry, and in particular the cable path, from the drums to the aircraft is essentially independent of any displacement of the support structure. This fixed arrangement of the drums relative to the launch device ensures that the cable geometry, and in particular the cable path, from the drums to the aircraft remains essentially independent of any displacement of the launch device. The cable geometry can thus be kept constant even if the launch device moves relative to it. This facilitates aircraft control.

[0018] The drums can be connected to the starting device, in particular via the supporting structure, especially a component of the supporting structure.

[0019] The supporting structure can include a first supporting structure element with a receiving device for receiving the launching device extending along a longitudinal direction. The launching device can be securely arranged, and in particular attached, to the receiving device.

[0020] The launch device is used to launch the aircraft. For this purpose, the aircraft can be moved into a specific position, a launch position, using the launch device.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, the aircraft can be set in motion using the launching device. One objective of the aircraft's movement and / or positioning can be to ensure that the force of gravity acting on the aircraft is less than the lift force it experiences. This lift force can be generated by the movement of the launching device. After launch, no additional energy needs to be supplied by the winch system, particularly the launching device, for the aircraft to fly, especially autonomously.

[0022] The launching device may, in particular, include a support arm, especially a rigid support arm, and in particular a mast. The mast serves, among other things, to position and / or move the aircraft, in particular to lift and / or rotate the aircraft about a yaw axis. The mast may play a role in controlling the aircraft's flight path. For the sake of simplicity, only the mast of the launching device will be referred to below. This is to be understood as an example only. Alternative designs of the launching device are not thereby excluded. For details of the launching device and its operation, reference is made to WO 2014 / 040 716 Al and EP 3 161 308 Bl, which are hereby fully incorporated into the present application. The mast extends along a longitudinal direction. The aircraft-side end of the mast is referred to as the front end of the mast or the mast head.The end of the mast that supports the supporting structure is called the aft end of the mast or the mast base. Viewed from the mast base, the masthead is at the front.

[0023] According to one aspect, the first drum and / or the second drum are connected to the support structure and / or the mounting device for the mast in such a way that the cable routing from the respective drum relative to the support structure, in particular a component thereof, especially the mounting device, remains unchanged when the latter is pivoted. In particular, the cable routing from the first drum and / or from the second drum to the mast can remain unchanged. This can facilitate the control of the aircraft.

[0024] According to another aspect, the supporting structure can have a second supporting structure element for the rotatable connection of the supporting structure to a base station, wherein the first supporting structure element and the second supporting structure element are pivotably connected to each other about a horizontal pivot axis.

[0025] When the two support structure elements are pivoted relative to each other, one of the support structure elements, in particular the second support structure element, can remain stationary relative to the base station. The first support structure element can remain stationary relative to the mast. This allows for consistent cable routing.

[0026] The second load-bearing structural element can be a component of the load-bearing structure. It is also referred to as the main beam. The first load-bearing structural element can be shell-like. In particular, it can form an outer shell. It is also referred to as the outer shell.

[0027] A hydraulic damping device can be provided to pivot the support structure elements relative to each other or to pivot the mast around the horizontal pivot axis. The hydraulic damping device can have one, two, or more hydraulic pistons. These can be arranged between the second support structure element and the first support structure element, the mounting device, or the mast. The hydraulic pistons are also referred to as dampers.

[0028] The hydraulic mixing unit can be part of the winch assembly. It can be mounted on or integrated into the support structure. The hydraulic mixing unit can also be located, at least partially, within the base station. Variations are also possible.

[0029] The second supporting structural element, in particular the base beam, can be rotatably connected to the base station about a vertical axis. The vertical axis is also referred to as the yaw axis.

[0030] The angular velocity of rotation about the yaw axis can exceed 607s, 907s, and 1107s. High angular velocities can occur, particularly during takeoff and / or landing of the aircraft, and / or when the traction elements are almost completely wound onto the drums and the distance from the mast head to the aircraft is relatively small. The hydraulic connection to the second support structure element, particularly the base beam, can be located in front of, behind, or within the area of ​​the yaw bearing. An arrangement in front of the yaw bearing can lead to improved force transmission.

[0031] The yaw bearing can be part of the base station or a component of the supporting structure. In particular, it can be integrated into or connected to the second supporting structure element, the main girder.

[0032] According to another aspect, the two supporting structure elements can be fixed relative to each other. In particular, they can be fixed relative to each other by means of one or more fixing means arranged at a distance from the pivot axis. One or more fixing bolts or plug-in axles can serve as fixing means. In particular, one, two, three, or more fixing means can be provided. The fixing means can, in particular, be provided on both sides of the longitudinal axis.

[0033] Fixing the two supporting structure elements relative to each other can, in particular, facilitate the removal of one or more of the drums.

[0034] The support structure can also be connected to the mast in such a way that a pivoting of the support structure can be decoupled from a pivoting of the mast about a horizontal axis. The support structure, or components thereof, can be pivoted about a horizontal axis without this necessarily leading to a pivoting of the mast about the same horizontal axis, or indeed to any pivoting of the mast at all. This makes it possible to lower one or more of the drums without having to raise the mast. It is not precluded, however, that one or more of the drums may be lowered when the mast pivots about the pivot axis.

[0035] According to one aspect, the horizontal pivot axis, via which the two support structure elements are pivotably connected, can coincide with one of the drum's axes of rotation. In particular, the horizontal pivot axis can coincide with the axis of rotation of the main rope drum. The horizontal pivot axis can also coincide with the axis of rotation of the control rope drums.

[0036] The horizontal pivot axis can also be arranged in relation to both the axis of rotation of the main drum and the axis of rotation of the control cable drums.

[0037] The horizontal pivot axis can be located, in particular, between the rotation axes of the drums. This makes it possible to at least partially balance the weight of the drums against each other.

[0038] The horizontal pivot axis can also be located in front of the rotation axis of the front of the two drums. In this case, all drums can serve as a counterweight to the front end of the mast and to the aircraft.

[0039] The distance between the pivot axis and the axis of rotation of the front drum is, in particular, up to 50 cm, in particular up to 1 m, in particular up to 2 m. The distance between the pivot axis and the axis of rotation of the front drum can, in particular, be at least 0.3 m, in particular at least 0.5 m, in particular at least 1 m. The distance between the horizontal pivot axis and the axis of rotation of the rear drum can, in particular, be at least 0.5 m, in particular at least 1 m, in particular at least 2 m. A greater distance results in a greater lowering of the drum when the first support structure element pivots relative to the second support structure element. This can be advantageous for removing the rear drum. At the same time, this may require an adjustment of the support structure and / or the base station to ensure sufficient rotation of the support structure about the yaw axis.

[0040] One approach is to ensure that the maximum lowering of the rear drum is only possible for maintenance purposes, and not during the operation of the wind turbine. This can be achieved, for example, by means that prevent the rear drum from being lowered to its maximum position when the mast is fully extended. These means can be mechanical or suitable control devices.

[0041] The pivot axis can be located in the plane defined by the drum's axes of rotation or at a distance from it. In the case of a distance between the pivot axis and the drum plane, the terms "in front of," "behind," or "within the area of ​​the axis of rotation" are to be understood as referring to a perpendicular projection onto the drum plane.

[0042] The mast can be telescopic. It can be movable, in particular rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The mast can consist of one or more segments. The mast can be replaceable. It can be reversibly connected to the supporting structure.

[0043] This is advantageous for the maintenance of the system. An interchangeable mast also makes it possible to operate the system, especially the base station, with different aircraft.

[0044] The mast can be fixed to the supporting structure, in particular to the receiving device, by means of one or more fixing means, in particular by means of bolts, screws, plug axles or clamping elements.

[0045] The mast can also be inserted into the receiving device in a form-fitting manner.

[0046] The receiving device may, in particular, have one or more clamping devices for fixing the mast.

[0047] In principle, a fixed, irreversible connection between the mast and the supporting structure is also possible. For example, the mast can be bonded to the supporting structure using a material bond.

[0048] The mast can be welded to the first support structure element. The first support structure element can also be designed as part of a first mast segment. This can enable a particularly secure connection between the mast and the support structure.

[0049] The mast can also be connected to the supporting structure in a way that allows it to be moved. In particular, it can be connected to the supporting structure in a way that allows it to be moved along its longitudinal axis. This movement can be stepless. Discrete movement positions can also be provided.

[0050] The adjustability of the mast relative to the supporting structure allows for flexible adaptation of the winch device to different conditions, especially to different mast lengths and / or different aircraft.

[0051] According to one aspect, at least one of the drums' axes of rotation is fixed to the supporting structure. Preferably, all axes of rotation of all drums are fixed to the supporting structure.

[0052] "Fixed position" here means that the respective axis of rotation is arranged on the support structure in such a way that it moves with the support structure when the structure moves. However, the possibility of the rotation axis of each drum being movable relative to the support structure, independent of any movement of the support structure, is not necessarily excluded. The drums can be connected to the support structure in a way that allows them to be moved relative to it. Alternatively, they can be connected to the support structure in a way that prevents movement.

[0053] The supporting structure can, in particular, have different mounting positions for receiving the drums, especially for receiving bearings for supporting the drums.

[0054] At least one of the drums can be permanently mounted on the mast. At least one of the drums can be permanently mounted on the supporting structure.

[0055] The distance between the drums' axes of rotation can be fixed. This facilitates a consistent rope geometry.

[0056] The distance between the drums' axes of rotation can also be adjusted. This allows for flexibility in rope geometry. This is particularly useful for interchangeable drums.

[0057] The drums in question are specifically winch drums. The winches are used primarily for changing, and in particular controlling, the length of the traction elements. A rope can serve as the traction element. This is merely an example; alternative traction elements are possible. For details regarding winches and traction elements, please refer to WO 2014 / 040 716 Al and EP 3 161 308 Bl.

[0058] The winch device may, in particular, comprise a main rope winch with a main rope drum. The main rope may be part of a main drive train. The main rope drum may include a generator. The main rope drum may include a gearbox. For details, see WO 2014 / 040 716 Al by way of example.

[0059] The winch device can have one or two control cable winches. The control cable winches can have control cable drums. The control cables are used to control the aircraft. For details, please refer again to WO 2014 / 040 716 Al. The winch device can, in particular, have two control cable winches. Each of the control cable winches can have its own control cable drum. The two control cable drums can be designed as a double drum. They can, in particular, be arranged on a common axis of rotation.

[0060] The axes of rotation of the drums can preferably be horizontally aligned.

[0061] The axes of rotation of the drums can be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the mast. However, they can also be arranged at a distance from the longitudinal axis, particularly below or above the longitudinal axis of the mast. It can also be advantageous to arrange one or more, and in particular all, of the drums such that their axis of rotation intersects the longitudinal axis of the mast.

[0062] The distance of the axis of rotation of the drums to the longitudinal axis of the mast can be, in particular, at most three times as large, in particular at most twice as large, in particular at most 1.2 times as large, in particular at most as large as the radius of the respective drum.

[0063] The axes of rotation of the drums can all be arranged on the same side of the support structure and / or mast. It can also be advantageous to arrange different drums, in particular the main rope drum and the control rope drums, on opposite sides of the support structure or mast.

[0064] A drum plane defined by the drums' axes of rotation can be oriented parallel to the mast's longitudinal axis. The drum plane can also be oriented perpendicular to the mast's longitudinal axis. The drum plane can also be oriented obliquely to the mast's longitudinal axis. Different drum plane orientations can offer specific advantages for different rope geometries.

[0065] The winch device may include active elements. In particular, it may include one or more drive units, one or more control units, one or more generators, one or more cooling units, one or more heating units, one or more sensors, one or more energy storage devices, or other active elements. These elements may form part of the wind turbine's actuator system.

[0066] According to one aspect, at least the rear drum, and in particular both drums, can be arranged behind the pivot axis around which the mast can pivot. At least one, and in particular all, of the drums can project rearward beyond the pivot axis, especially in the direction of the longitudinal axis. When the mast is raised around the pivot axis, this causes the respective drums to lower, effectively lowering the center of gravity of the wind turbine. This improves the stability of the wind turbine.

[0067] In particular, the drum pivot points can be located behind the slewing axis when viewed from the masthead. This causes the respective drums to lower when the mast is raised around the slewing axis, effectively lowering the wind turbine's center of gravity. This improves the turbine's stability. Furthermore, at least one of the drums, especially the rear drum, can be pivoted into a parking position for maintenance purposes, particularly around the horizontal slewing axis. It can be pivoted into a storage position from which it can be removed from the winch using a storage device. This is advantageous for drum replacement and significantly simplifies system maintenance.

[0068] According to another aspect, the second supporting structure element, in particular the base support, has a yaw bearing for rotating the supporting structure relative to a base station around a yaw axis or is connectable to a yaw bearing of a base station or is connected to a base station via a yaw bearing.

[0069] The connection can be reversible, particularly detachable. It can be a bolted connection. This allows for a high degree of flexibility. In particular, it allows for the replacement of the support structure and / or different placements of the support structure relative to the yaw bearing.

[0070] The supporting structure can also be bonded to the yaw bearing using a material bond. This enables a particularly reliable connection.

[0071] The yaw bearing may have a feedthrough, in particular a rotary feedthrough. The yaw bearing may in particular have a sliding contact, in particular a slip ring. The rotary feedthrough may in particular be for the routing of power lines and / or data lines and / or lines for fluids, in particular for liquids and / or for gases.

[0072] The rotary feedthrough enables, in particular, a reliable connection between components of the winch device and components of the base station, especially components that are arranged in a central module of the base station.

[0073] According to another aspect, the winch device, in particular the supporting structure, can be displaceable relative to the yaw bearing. Specifically, it can be displaceable in the horizontal direction relative to the yaw bearing.

[0074] The shift capability can be continuous. This allows for particularly precise and flexible positioning of the winch device, especially the support structure, relative to the yaw bearing. Alternatively, the shift capability can be discrete. In particular, several discrete shift positions can be provided. This allows for particularly stable positioning of the winch device, especially the support structure, relative to the yaw bearing.

[0075] For fixing the winch device, especially the supporting structure, relative to the yaw bearing, for example, holes, detent slots or undercuts may be provided.

[0076] The winch assembly, particularly its support structure, can also be movable relative to the yaw bearing on a rail system. A clamping device can also be provided to fix the winch assembly, particularly its support structure, relative to the yaw bearing. The movableness of the winch assembly, particularly its support structure, relative to the yaw bearing allows for adaptation to different wind turbine configurations. In particular, it allows for adaptation to different designs of the mast, drums, aircraft, external operating conditions, especially wind speed, or a combination of these factors.

[0077] Preferably, at least one component of the supporting structure is displaceable relative to the yaw bearing. Another component of the supporting structure, for example the base beam, can remain fixed to the yaw bearing. This can be advantageous for routing cables through the yaw bearing. Alternatively, it is possible to displace the entire supporting structure, in particular the base beam, relative to the yaw bearing.

[0078] The publishing capability can be designed in such a way that the relocation position is chosen during the assembly of the system and is subsequently fixed.

[0079] The relocation capability can also be designed such that the relative position of the winch device to the yaw bearing can be adjusted during operation of the system. This relocation can be controlled, preferably by sensors. It can, for example, be load-dependent. This makes it possible to adapt the relative position of the winch device to the yaw bearing, particularly during operation of the wind turbine, to different, especially changing, wind conditions. According to one aspect, the yaw bearing is arranged longitudinally in front of at least one of the drums. It can be arranged in front of the front drum, i.e., in front of both or all drums. Such an arrangement of the drums relative to the yaw bearing can be fixed or achieved by allowing the drums to be relocated relative to the yaw bearing.

[0080] A horizontal distance between the front drum axis and the yaw axis can be, in particular, at least 0.5 m, in particular at least 1 m, in particular at least 2 m, in particular at least 3 m.

[0081] At least one of the drums, and in particular all of the drums, can serve as a counterweight to the front end of the mast and / or to the aircraft. This is, in particular, an independent aspect of the invention.

[0082] This is particularly advantageous at high angular velocities of rotation around the yaw axis, especially during takeoff and / or landing of the aircraft.

[0083] The at least one of the drums, in particular all of the drums, can serve in particular for the static or dynamic balancing of the components of the winch device that can pivot about the horizontal pivot axis and / or rotate about the yaw axis, in particular the components connected to the supporting structure.

[0084] The drums can serve, in particular, as a static counterweight to the mast and / or the aircraft with respect to pivoting about the horizontal pivot axis. The center of mass of the system, encompassing the drums, the mast, and the aircraft, can be located above the yaw bearing at a predetermined mast extension position, especially at maximum or minimum extension. This means, in particular, that the horizontal distance between the center of mass and the yaw axis is at most 1 m, in particular at most 0.5 m, in particular at most 0.3 m, in particular at most 0.2 m, and in particular at most 0.1 m.

[0085] The distance between the drums and the yaw bearing can also be selected such that, during rotation of the support structure around the yaw axis, which occurs during the operation of the wind turbine, the drums form a dynamic counterweight to the tensile forces caused by the aircraft. In this case, the centrifugal force of the drums during rotation of the support structure around the yaw axis can be utilized.

[0086] The modified arrangement of the drums relative to the yaw bearing can improve the stability of the wind turbine in particular.

[0087] Acceleration-sensitive components can be arranged, in particular, in the area of ​​the yaw bearing. They can be arranged, in particular, at a distance of no more than 3 m, in particular no more than 2 m, in particular no more than 1 m, in particular no more than 0.5 m, from the yaw bearing, in particular from the yaw axis.

[0088] According to another aspect, the supporting structure forms a protective element for one or more components of the winch device. These can be, in particular, active components. The supporting structure can specifically form a cover, a roof, or a housing for one or more components of the winch device.

[0089] This allows for a protected arrangement of the relevant components. The supporting structure can, in particular, provide weather protection.

[0090] The two load-bearing structural elements can be designed to fit each other, in particular as an upper shell and a lower shell. The upper shell can overlap the lower shell.

[0091] The housing of the support structure may contain one or more of the following components: main cable winch, control cable winches, control electronics, sensors, cooling system, hydraulic system. This list is not exhaustive.

[0092] The housing may incorporate a cooling element, in particular a passive cooling element. This can be advantageous for improving the dissipation of waste heat.

[0093] The housing is designed to be splash-proof, and especially rainproof. This is not strictly necessary.

[0094] The casing can enclose an interior space. It can also be partially open.

[0095] The housing may have one or more feedthroughs for mechanical and / or electrical and / or hydraulic lines. The feedthroughs may be sealed. The housing may be made at least partially, and in particular entirely, of metal, especially stainless metal, of plastic, of a fiber composite material, or of a combination of such materials.

[0096] The housing can, in particular, surround one or all of the winches, especially the drums.

[0097] The housing can be designed in such a way that, when closed, no moving parts of the winches and / or the cable guide are visible from the outside. This contributes to improved safety during operation of the system.

[0098] According to another aspect, active components of the wind turbine can be arranged on the supporting structure in addition to the drums.

[0099] Active components are understood to be, in particular, electrical, hydraulic, or thermal components. These may include, in particular, components for controlling the system, especially sensors, and / or storage elements, especially energy storage devices, particularly batteries or capacitors.

[0100] The active components can be integrated into the supporting structure, especially into the housing of the supporting structure.

[0101] By arranging active components on the support structure, the number of lines that need to pass through the yaw bearing, particularly the rotary union, can be reduced. This can lead to a more stable wind turbine design. Furthermore, at least one, and in particular all, of the drums can be replaceable. Specifically, the drums can be removable.

[0102] The drums can be removed, in particular without external lifting equipment, especially without heavy-duty cranes or work platforms.

[0103] Due to the arrangement of the drums relative to the horizontal pivot axis, the drums are preferably retractable. In particular, they can be lowered into a parking or removal position. For this purpose, a storage or receiving device can be provided on the base station, especially on a central module thereof or on a satellite module provided for this purpose.

[0104] Another objective of the invention is to improve a basic system for a wind turbine.

[0105] This task is solved by a basic system with a winch device according to the preceding description and a base station for storing the winch device.

[0106] The advantages arise from those of the winch device.

[0107] The winch device is mounted in a rotatable manner, in particular about a vertical axis, in particular about the yaw axis, relative to the base station.

[0108] The base station can include the yaw bearing. The base station can have a modular design. In particular, it can have a central module and one or more satellite modules.

[0109] The central module can be connected to the satellite modules, for example via at least one connection interface. This connection can, for example, transmit force. The central module can, for example, be supported by the satellite modules against tilting moments expected during the operation of the wind turbine.

[0110] In this context, a module is understood to be a component with one or more functions. Satellite modules, in particular, can have additional functions besides providing support. They can, in particular, serve to house active components of the base station and / or to provide additional functionalities.

[0111] The modular design of the base station offers advantages in terms of setup and transport. It also provides improved flexibility, particularly regarding the adaptability of the base station and the maintenance of individual components. Further advantages are described below.

[0112] The satellite modules can be connected to the central module in a detachable manner, particularly reversibly. The central module is also generally referred to as the first module. The modules, especially the central module and / or the at least one satellite module, can have a polygonal plan. The plan can be triangular or hexagonal. It can also be quadrilateral, pentagonal, or octagonal. A rectangular, non-square plan is also possible.

[0113] The first module can, in particular, have a floor plan with threefold, fourfold, or fivefold radial symmetry. This improves the flexibility in setting up the base station.

[0114] The first module can usually be installed in a fixed position. It can also optionally be installed floating. In the case of a floating installation, the first module can be anchored to the bottom of the body of water using one or more tension elements.

[0115] Another objective of the invention is to improve a wind turbine.

[0116] This task is solved by a wind turbine with a winch device according to the preceding description and a base station for storing the winch device and an aircraft which is connected to the winch device by means of a plurality of traction elements.

[0117] The advantages arise from those of the winch device.

[0118] The system in question can be, in particular, a three-line or four-line kite system. The kite system can, in particular, have a rigid wing. It can also have flexible wings, especially a wing with elements subjected to differential pressure, or textile wings subjected to differential pressure. It can also be a kite system with a wing that incorporates rigid elements, such as carbon fiber tubes, and textile surface elements.

[0119] Further details and specifics of the invention will become apparent from the description of an exemplary embodiment with reference to the figures. These show:

[0120] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an invention.

[0121] Exemplary design of a base station for a wind turbine,

[0122] Fig. 2 shows a top view of the base station shown in Fig. 1,

[0123] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the base station shown in Fig. 1,

[0124] Fig. 4 shows a front view of the base station shown in Fig. 1 and

[0125] Fig. 5 shows a section along the section line VV from Fig. 4.

[0126] The base station 1 comprises a first module 3, at least one, in particular at least two, in particular three or more satellite modules 4, a winch device 5, and a launch device 6. The winch device 5 and / or the launch device 6 may also be configured separately from the base station 1. In this case, the combination of base station 1 and winch device 5 is also referred to as the base system. The base system may also include the launch device 6.

[0127] The first module 3 is also referred to as the central module.

[0128] In this context, a module is understood to be a component with one or more functions. In particular, the satellite modules 4 can have additional functions besides their supporting function. They can, in particular, serve to accommodate active components of the base station 1 and / or to provide additional functionalities.

[0129] Modules 3 and 4, in particular the central module 3 and / or the at least one satellite module 4, in particular all satellite modules 4, can in particular have a three-dimensional form with a base area and a volume. The base area, which in particular can form a support surface or bearing surface and is also referred to as the floor surface, can in particular be at least 0.1 m². 2 , in particular at least 0.3 m 2 , in particular at least 1 m 2 , in particular at least 2 m 2 The volume can be at least 0.03 m³.3 , in particular at least 0.1 m 3 , in particular at least 0.3 m 3 , in particular at least 1 m 3 , in particular at least 2 m 3The modules are not merely fastening elements such as anchors. The satellite modules 4 can be arranged in a common plane, particularly a horizontal plane. The satellite modules 4 can be arranged in a common plane, particularly a horizontal plane, with the central module 3. The satellite modules 4, and in particular the satellite modules 4 and the central module 3, can have base surfaces arranged in a common reference plane. One or more of the modules 3, 4 can be offset from the reference plane by a maximum of 1 m, in particular a maximum of 30 cm, in particular a maximum of 10 cm, in particular a maximum of 3 cm, and / or tilted by a maximum of 30°, in particular a maximum of 10°, in particular a maximum of 3°, relative to the reference plane. This allows the base station 1 to be flexibly adapted to uneven ground conditions.The offset and / or tilt can be adjustable.

[0130] The first module 3 comprises a support structure 7 and a first receiving structure 8. The first receiving structure 8 serves to receive the launching structure 6. The support structure 7 serves to brace the wind turbine 1, in particular the launching structure 6, against the ground or the respective subsoil.

[0131] The recording device 8 can also be considered a separate component, which in particular does not form part of the first module 3 and / or form part of the starting device 6.

[0132] The first receiving device 8 is also referred to as the second support structure element or base support. The first receiving device 8 forms, in particular, a component of a support structure 33. The support structure 33 can have several, in particular two, support structure elements. The first support structure element and the second support structure element are connected to each other in such a way that they can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis.

[0133] A hydraulic damping device 32 can be provided for pivoting the support structure elements relative to each other or for pivoting the mast 16 about the horizontal pivot axis. The hydraulic damping device 32 can have one, two, or more hydraulic pistons. These can be arranged between the second support structure element and the first support structure element, the receiving device, or the mast. The hydraulic pistons are also referred to as dampers 18.

[0134] The hydraulic mixing device 32 can be part of the winch device 5. It can be arranged on or in the support structure 33. The hydraulic mixing device 32 can also be arranged on or, at least partially, in the base station 1. Variations are also possible.

[0135] The support structure 33 has a second receiving device, which is designed in particular as a receiving shell 31. The receiving shell 31 forms the first support structure element. The receiving shell 31 serves to receive, in particular to receive in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner, the mast 16 in the support structure 33. The mast 16 is in particular rigidly connected to the receiving shell 31.

[0136] When the two support structure elements are pivoted relative to each other, the second support structure element can remain stationary relative to base station 1. The first support structure element can remain stationary relative to the mast. This allows for consistent cable guidance. The second support structure element, in particular the base support, can be rotatably connected to base station 1 about a vertical axis Ai. The vertical axis Ai is also referred to as the yaw axis.

[0137] A yaw bearing serves to connect the second supporting structure element, in particular the base support, with the base station 1.

[0138] The yaw bearing can be designed as part of base station 1, in particular the central module. It can also be designed as part of the supporting structure 33, in particular the base girder. It can also be designed as a separate component.

[0139] The first module 3, in particular the support structure 7, has a housing 9 with a polygonal base plan, specifically a hexagonal base plan. Other shapes are also possible. The base station 1 serves in particular to support the wind turbine on the ground.

[0140] On its upper surface, the housing 9 has a feedthrough or interface 10 through which a drive mechanism, cables, hoses, electrical signals, or fluids can be routed. The housing 9 also has six side surfaces 11, each with a closable opening provided by doors 12. Operationally relevant components such as electronic components, control components, energy storage devices, spare parts, or weights can be housed within the housing 9.

[0141] The supporting structure 33, in particular the receiving device 8, especially the base support, is rotatably mounted on the central module, in particular on the support device 7, about a vertical axis Ai shown in Fig. 5. The vertical axis Ai is also referred to as the yaw axis. The rotatability can be achieved via suitable drives, such as an electric motor. The receiving device 8 comprises two wing-like bodies 13 in which two bearings 14 are arranged on an axis A2. The axis A2 is also referred to as the tilt axis. A receiving space is formed between the bearings 14 of the wing-like bodies 13.

[0142] The receiving device 8, in particular the receiving space formed between the wing-like bodies 13, accommodates the launching device 6 and the winch device 5 arranged on the launching device 6. The launching device 6 comprises a shaft 15, which is arranged in the bearings 14. The launching device 6 can be tilted about the axis A2 via a drive (not shown) over the shaft 15. For this purpose, the drive is preferably designed as an electric motor.

[0143] The launching device 6 has a mast 16, in particular a telescopic mast 16. The mast 16 comprises five axially displaceable segments 17, which can be moved, for example, by a suitable drive. A different number of segments 17 is also possible. The segments 17 are hollow so that a steel cable (not shown) of the winch device 5 can be guided through them.

[0144] Mast 16 can also have a lattice structure. Alternative designs of mast 16 are also possible.

[0145] The mast 16 is additionally supported on the mounting device 8 by means of dampers 18, in particular in the form of hydraulic pistons. By means of the dampers 18, in particular by means of the hydraulic pistons, the mast 16 can be pivoted about the horizontal axis A2.

[0146] Mast 16 extends along a longitudinal axis. The aircraft-side end of the mast is referred to as the front end of the mast or masthead. The support-structure-side end of mast 16 is referred to as the rear end of mast 16 or mast base.

[0147] The winch device 5 can be connected to the starting device 6 either permanently or reversibly.

[0148] The winch device 5 can be connected to the launching device 6, in particular by means of the support structure 33, and especially by means of one of the support structure elements. The winch device 5 can be connected to the launching device 6, in particular by means of the first support structure element, in such a way that its relative position remains unchanged when the mast 16 is pivoted about one of the axes A1 and / or A2. This is also referred to as a rigid connection. It is understood that the drums of the winch device 5 described below are rotatable.

[0149] The winch device 5 comprises a cable winch 19 which is mounted in the housing 21 of the winch device 5 via a shaft 20. The cable winch 19 receives the steel cable. The cable winch 19 is also referred to as the main cable winch or (main cable) drum.

[0150] The winch device 5 can accommodate additional winches 30 for holding

[0151] The control cables are included. In particular, two winches 30 may be provided for holding the control cables. The winches 30 for holding the control cables are also referred to as control cable winches or (control cable) drums.

[0152] A drive mechanism (not shown) is arranged on shaft 20, which can function as both an electric motor and a generator. The winch 19 is therefore also referred to as a generator winch.

[0153] The steering winches can also function as generators and form generator winches.

[0154] On mast 16, rope guide elements are arranged to guide the rope from the drums of the winch device 5 to the aircraft. For the sake of clarity, the rope guide elements, in particular the rope exits, are not shown in the figures.

[0155] The cable winch 19 and / or the cable winches 30 are connected to the mast 16 by means of the support structure 33, in particular by means of the receiving device for receiving the mast 16, so that the cable guidance from the respective drum relative to the mast 16 remains unchanged when the mast 16 is pivoted.

[0156] The satellite modules 4 of the base station 1 each comprise a module carrier 22 and a module housing 23. This is not strictly necessary. It is also possible to configure satellite modules 4 without a module carrier 22 or without a module housing 23.

[0157] The satellite modules 4 each have a connection interface 24 arranged on the module carrier 22, via which the satellite modules 4 can be reversibly and detachably connected to the first module 3. The satellite modules 4 extend in a radial direction Ri away from the first module 3.

[0158] The connection between the satellite modules 4 and the first module 3 can be positive-locking and / or force-locking. The connection interface 24 can, in particular, include screw connections, snap-fit ​​connections, undercuts, magnetic connections, or other detachable connections.

[0159] Alternatively, one or more, in particular all, of the satellite modules 4 can also be or become materially bonded to the central module 3. It may be specifically planned to weld the satellite modules 4 to the central module 3 during or after the installation of the wind turbine 1, particularly after the final installation of the wind turbine 1.

[0160] In particular, in the case of satellite modules 4 with functional, especially active, especially electrical or hydraulic, components, the satellite modules 4 and / or the central module 3 may also have one or more electrical and / or hydraulic interfaces.

[0161] The module support 22 has rails 25 via which the module housing 23 is slidably connected to the module support 22. The satellite module 4 can have a drive for moving the module housing 23 along the rails 25. The module housing 23 forms a receptacle 26. The receptacle 26 is also referred to as the receiving space. The receptacle 26 can be reversibly closed by doors 27. Functional components, in particular electronic components, control components or energy storage devices, or spare parts of the wind turbine 2 can be arranged or stored in the receptacle 26. Alternatively, weights can be stored in the receptacle 26. The weights can also be arranged outside the module housing 23.

[0162] The weights can be used to reinforce satellite module 4. The weights can also be used to increase the stability of base station 1.

[0163] The total weight of the weight elements arranged on a single satellite module can be at least 500 kg, and in particular at least 1000 kg.

[0164] In the operation of wind turbine 2, an aircraft (not shown), in particular in the form of a kite, especially with at least a partially rigid wing, is attached to the base station 1, in particular to its mast 16, via the steel cable. The aircraft, in particular a sail or a wing thereof, is moved by rotating the launch device 6 about the vertical axis Ai and the axis A2 into a position where it can capture the most wind under the current weather conditions or in which it generates a minimum amount of lift. Subsequently, the aircraft is brought to a launch position at a launch height by extending the telescopic mast 16. From the launch position, the aircraft ascends, driven by the wind, and pulls the steel cable from the winch. Pulling the steel cable generates electricity via the generator.

[0165] The satellite modules 4, extending in a radial direction Ri, serve as feet and counterweights during operation of the wind turbine 1. The even distribution of the three satellite modules 4 ensures that the base station 1 remains stable in every operating position, even under strong winds, and cannot tip over.

[0166] If necessary, the center of gravity of base station 1 can be shifted by moving the module housings 23 along the rails 25. This method can further counteract strong wind effects.

[0167] The first module 3, the satellite modules 4, and preferably also the launching device 6 with the winch assembly 5 are designed such that they can each be accommodated and transported in a standard container, such as a 20 ft, 30 ft, or 40 ft container. The first module 3, the satellite modules 4, and preferably also the launching device 6 with the winch assembly 5 preferably have a maximum weight of 5 t, and in particular a maximum weight of 3 t, so that they can be loaded and / or unloaded by a small crane, such as a mobile crane.

[0168] On the base station 1, in particular on a central module thereof, on the first module 3, or on a satellite module 4 provided for this purpose, a shelf 34 or a receiving device for storing or receiving one of the drums, in particular the winch 19, can be provided. By pivoting the support structure 33, the winch 19 can be placed on the shelf 34.

[0169] Storage unit 34 can also be designed separately from base station 1. It can preferably be relocatable relative to base station 1. This can facilitate the replacement of the drums, especially the winch 19.

[0170] Figures 1 to 5 merely show one of many conceivable embodiments of the invention. The figures are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0171] According to an advantageous embodiment, the base station 1 can have adjustable supports, in particular hydraulically adjustable supports. The supports can be arranged, in particular, on the first module 3, and in particular connected to the first module 3. By means of the supports, the base station 1, in particular the first module 3, can be displaced, in particular raised and / or lowered, by at least 10 cm, in particular at least 30 cm, and in particular at least 1 m, in the vertical direction. This can facilitate the transport, in particular the loading, and in particular the loading and / or unloading of the base station 1 from a transport vehicle, in particular a truck, and in particular a low-loader.

[0172] To install Base Station 1, it can be transported to the designated location, particularly by truck. On site, only the outriggers need to be extended. The truck can then be driven out from under Base Station 1. Subsequently, Base Station 1 can be lowered to the ground by retracting the outriggers. If necessary and / or desired, the precise positioning of the satellite modules 4 relative to the first module 3 can be adjusted. Base Station 1, and in particular the wind turbine 2, is thus ready for operation very quickly and easily. The time required from delivery to commissioning of Base Station 1, and in particular the wind turbine 2, is less than three hours, less than two hours, and less than one hour.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Winch device (5) for a wind turbine (2) comprising 1.

1. a supporting structure (33) with a first supporting structure element with a receiving device for receiving a mast (16) for positioning an aircraft, 1.

2. a first drum for winding a traction element connected to an aircraft, which is rotatably mounted about a first axis of rotation, and 1.

3. a second drum for winding a traction element connected to an aircraft, which is rotatably mounted about a second axis of rotation, 1.

4. wherein the axes of rotation of the drums are arranged in a fixed position relative to the receiving device (8).

2. Winch device (5) according to claim 1 characterized in that it has a second support structure element for rotatably connecting the support structure (33) to a base station (1), wherein the first support structure element and the second support structure element are pivotably connected to each other about a horizontal pivot axis.

3. Winch device (5) according to claim 2, characterized in that the horizontal pivot axis coincides with one of the rotation axes of the drums.

4. Winch device (5) according to claim 3, characterized in that the horizontal pivot axis coincides with the axis of rotation of the front drum.

5. Winch device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support structure (33) is connected to a base station via a yaw bearing.

6. Winch device (5) according to claim 5, characterized in that the second support structure element has a yaw bearing for rotating the support structure (33) relative to a base station about a yaw axis.

7. Winch device (5) according to one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that it is displaceable in the horizontal direction relative to the yaw bearing.

8. Winch device (5) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the yaw bearing is arranged in the longitudinal direction in front of at least one of the drums, in particular in front of all drums.

9. Winch device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support structure (33) forms a protective element for one or more components of the winch device.

10. Winch device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that active components of the wind turbine (2) are arranged on the support structure (33) in addition to the drums.

11. Winch device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the drums is replaceable. 12-piece set 12.

1. a winch device (5) according to one of the preceding claims and 12.

2. a movable mast (16) for positioning an aircraft, 12.

3. wherein the mast (16) is arranged in the receiving device of the support structure (33) of the winch device (5), and 12.

4. wherein the axes of rotation of the drums are arranged in a fixed position relative to the mast (16).

13. Basic system for a wind turbine comprising (2) 13.

1. a winch device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and 13.

2. a base station (1) for storing the winch device (5).

14. wind turbine (2) having 14.

1. a winch device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, 14.

2. a base station (1) for storing the winch device (5) and 14.

3. an aircraft, 14.

4. wherein the aircraft is connected to the winch device (5) by means of a plurality of traction elements.

15. Wind power plant (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that it is a three-line kite system or a four-line kite system.

Images