Base station

Abstract

A base station (1) for a wind turbine (2) has a modular design.

Description

[0001] Base station

[0002] The present patent application claims priority over German patent application DE 10 2024 209 122.7, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The invention relates to a base station for a wind turbine. The invention further relates to a base system for a wind turbine and a wind turbine itself.

[0004] Wind turbines come in various designs. Particularly in systems that convert wind energy into electrical energy using a tethered aircraft, the aircraft is connected to a ground station via tether lines.

[0005] One objective of the invention is to improve a base station for a wind turbine.

[0006] This problem is solved by different aspects of the present invention, either individually or in combination.

[0007] 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 restrictive.

[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".

[0011] Furthermore, the order in which the characteristics are disclosed should not be interpreted as restrictive. In particular, characteristics mentioned later should not be understood as subordinate to or dependent on characteristics mentioned earlier.

[0012] According to one aspect, the base station comprises a first module, in particular for mounting a winch device and / or a launching device, and at least one satellite module, wherein the first module has at least one connection interface via which the at least one satellite module can be connected to the first module in a force-transmitting manner. The at least one satellite module can, in particular, be connected to the first module in such a way that the first module is supported against tilting moments expected during the operation of the wind turbine.

[0013] This improves the stability, and especially the operational reliability, of the base station. The base station is also referred to as a ground station. However, it can also be deployed on water, particularly offshore.

[0014] In this context, a module is understood to be, in particular, a component with one or more functions. Satellite modules, in particular, can have additional functions besides their supporting function. They can serve, in particular, to house active components of the base station and / or to provide additional functionalities.

[0015] The modules, in particular the central module and / or the at least one satellite module, in particular all satellite modules, can in particular have a three-dimensional form with a base area G and a volume V. The base area G, which in particular can form a support surface or bearing surface and is also referred to as the floor area, 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 A larger base area prevents the satellite modules from sinking into the ground. This is particularly advantageous in soft soil.

[0016] The volume V 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 3a larger volume allows for its functional use, in particular the arrangement of functional, especially active, components of the wind power plant in the modules.

[0017] The modules are not merely fastening devices such as ground anchors. The geometric centroid of a satellite module's base surface and / or the center of mass of a satellite module can be located at or above the level of a base surface of the central module.

[0018] The satellite modules can therefore be easily installed. In particular, they do not need to be buried in the ground. This simplifies the installation of the base station.

[0019] Alternatively, the satellite modules can be arranged on the central module such that the geometric centroid of a satellite module's base and / or the center of mass of a satellite module lies below the height of the central module's base. The satellite modules can be arranged in a common plane, particularly a horizontal plane. The satellite modules and the central module can, in particular, have bases arranged in a common reference plane.One or more of the modules 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 to be flexibly adapted to uneven ground conditions. The offset and / or tilt can be adjustable.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The satellite modules can be designed separately from the central module. This facilitates transport and increases flexibility. In particular, it allows for the production of different satellite modules and the selection of the appropriate and / or preferred module(s) as needed. The satellite modules and the central module can be connected by positive locking and / or frictional locking. The connection interface can include screw connections, snap-fit ​​connections, undercuts, magnetic connections, or other detachable connections.

[0022] Alternatively, one or more, and in particular all, of the satellite modules can be or will be bonded to the central module. It may be possible, in particular, to weld the satellite modules to the central module during or after the installation of the wind turbine, especially after the final installation of the wind turbine.

[0023] In particular, in the case of satellite modules with functional, especially active, especially electrical or hydraulic, components, the satellite modules and / or the central module may also have one or more electrical and / or hydraulic interfaces.

[0024] The wind turbine in question is specifically an airborne wind turbine. The aircraft can be a kite, particularly a tethered kite. The aircraft can have a flexible or a rigid wing. The aircraft can also be a drone, particularly a tethered drone, or a balloon, particularly a tethered balloon.

[0025] The wind turbine can be operated in a yo-yo mode. The aircraft is connected to the base station by at least one towing device, in particular at least one cable. Multiple towing devices, in particular multiple cables, may also be provided for connecting the aircraft to the base station. The wind turbine may be, in particular, a three- or four-line kite system. For details of the wind turbine, reference is made, by way of example, to WO 2014 / 040 716 Al, which is hereby fully incorporated into the present application.

[0026] The first module can, in particular, form a central module. It is also referred to as the central module. The smallest convex envelope of the base of the first module can, in particular, be arranged relative to the center of mass of the first module and / or the center of mass of the base station such that a vertical projection of this or these centers of mass lies inside the envelope. Here, the projection of the center of mass(s) can coincide with the centroid of the envelope. The projection of the center of mass of the first module and / or the center of mass of the base station can also be arranged at a distance from the centroid of the envelope of the base of the first module and / or the base of the base station.

[0027] A coincidence of the center of mass with one or both of the centroids can be particularly advantageous if the wind turbine is to be equally suitable for wind from any direction. A design in which the projection of the center of mass(s) diverges from one or both of the centroids can be advantageous if a specific wind direction is expected to prevail during operation of the wind turbine. The module, in particular the central module and / or the at least one satellite module, can have a polygonal plan. It can be triangular or hexagonal in shape. It can also be quadrilateral, pentagonal, or octagonal. A rectangular, non-square plan is also possible.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The at least one satellite module is, in particular, interchangeable, especially reversibly interchangeable. It can, in particular, be retrofitted. This allows for easy expansion of the wind turbine. The provision of one or more satellite modules results in a particularly flexible configuration. The base station is, in particular, adaptable to different wind turbine variants, especially different wind turbine sizes, winch systems, launching equipment, and / or aircraft.

[0031] The interchangeability of the satellite modules also leads to improved, and in particular easier, maintenance of the wind turbine.

[0032] Furthermore, the modular design of the base station allows for easy retrofitting with additional optional components, such as energy storage, inverters, control devices, etc.

[0033] The winch device can have one or more winch units. Each winch unit can have one or more drums for winding a pulling element, in particular in the form of a rope.

[0034] The winch units serve in particular to move at least one of the traction elements, especially the cables, by which the aircraft of the wind turbine is connected to the base station. Moving the traction element includes, in particular, winding and / or unwinding it onto or from the winch unit. The cable length can be changed, in particular by means of the winch device, for launching and / or landing the aircraft. The cable length can also be changed for energy conversion. The cable length can also be changed for controlling the aircraft. For details, reference is made to WO 2014 / 040716 Al. Cable length here refers to the length of the traction element, in particular the cable, between the respective winch and the aircraft.

[0035] The winch device is also referred to as an actuator device. It may include, in particular, active drives, especially controllable drives, and / or generator(s) for generating electrical energy.

[0036] The winch device may include a control unit for adjusting the cable length of one or more of the winches. Cable length, in this context, refers to the length of the unwound cable, specifically the length of the cable from the respective winch to the point where this cable connects to the aircraft.

[0037] The winch device can have one or more drives for changing the lengths of the control and / or holding cables.

[0038] The winch device may also include a generator. In particular, it may include one or more traction sheave winches.

[0039] The launching device can be mounted in a rotatable manner. In particular, it can be mounted to rotate about a vertical axis. The vertical axis of rotation of the launching device is also referred to as the yaw axis.

[0040] The launching device can, in particular, hold the aircraft during a takeoff and / or landing phase and / or when the wind turbine is not in operation.

[0041] The launching system may include a mast. The mast may, for example, have a length ranging from 10 m to 100 m. The mast length may, for example, roughly correspond to the wingspan of the aircraft. It may also deviate from the wingspan by up to 10%, in particular up to 30%, and in particular up to 50%. A longer mast results in a longer line length that can be reached during rotation.

[0042] The mast can be rigid or telescopic. Based on its maximum length, it can be used, in particular, for transport and / or for specific operating conditions, for example, during power generation or weathering. The mast can, in particular, have one or more, in particular at least two, in particular at least three, in particular at least four, in particular at least five, segments. The individual segments can, in particular, be movable relative to each other.

[0043] The base station can be stabilized against tipping moments, in particular by increasing its contact area with the ground, especially on a foundation. The contact area can be increased, especially in the downwind direction. Stabilization of the base station against anticipated tipping moments can also be achieved by arranging one or more satellite modules upwind. In this case, stabilization is achieved by the torque exerted by the satellite module on the first module, which counteracts the tipping moments generated by the wind. This can be particularly advantageous when the base station is located on a deformable surface, especially on water.

[0044] According to another aspect, the at least one satellite module can be connected to the first module in such a way that it extends radially towards a vertical axis, in particular the yaw axis, of the base station. The at least one satellite module can be connected to the first module in such a way that it is aligned radially towards a vertical axis, in particular the yaw axis, of the base station.

[0045] The vertical axis can be the yaw axis. In particular, it can be a vertical axis through the center of mass of the first module and / or a vertical axis through the center of mass of the base station. The vertical axis can also be oriented relative to these axes. This can be particularly advantageous in the case of a preferred wind direction or a preferred angle range for the expected wind direction.

[0046] In particular, several, especially two, three or more satellite modules may be provided.

[0047] The satellite modules can be arranged in a star shape around the first module. They can also be attached to the first module in a Y-shape.

[0048] The satellite modules can be arranged evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference of the first module. This allows for consideration of any wind direction or a preferred wind direction.

[0049] It is particularly possible that two satellite modules are connected to the first module, with the angle enclosed by the two satellite modules being adapted to the usual tilting angle range of the aircraft or the mast. The angle between the two satellite modules can, in particular, correspond exactly to the tilting angle range of the mast about the yaw axis. It can also deviate by up to 30%, in particular up to 50%, in particular up to 100% from the expected tilting angle range of the mast about the yaw axis.

[0050] According to another aspect, the satellite modules can be arranged on the central module in such a way that two adjacent satellite modules have a distance of at least 1 m, in particular a distance of at least 2 m, and in particular a distance of at least 3 m. The distance can here refer to the smallest distance between the adjacent satellite modules and / or the distance at the outermost end of the modules in the radial direction to the yaw axis.

[0051] A gap between adjacent modules results in particularly stable support for the base station. Furthermore, a gap between adjacent satellite modules facilitates access to the central module, for example, with vehicles, especially trucks.

[0052] According to another aspect, at least one satellite module has a module carrier and a module housing. It can also have more than one module housing.

[0053] In this context, the module support can be connected to the first module in a force-transmitting manner, particularly reversibly. The module support can also be pivotably connected to the first module. In particular, it can be pivotally connected to the first module about a vertical axis. This allows for flexible alignment of the satellite module relative to the first module.

[0054] It is also possible to arrange one or more of the satellite modules, in particular non-steerable ones, and one or more of the satellite modules in a swiveling manner on the first module.

[0055] The module housing can, in particular, define or enclose an interior space. It can be designed to be sealed, especially watertight, and optionally airtight. It can, in particular, provide protection against environmental influences. Generally, the module housing can form a receiving space, especially for accommodating functional components of the system.

[0056] The housing can be made of metal, especially stainless steel, or of plastic or fiber composite material. Combinations are also possible.

[0057] The housing can be used, in particular, for arranging functional components. It can be used, in particular, for arranging storage elements, especially one or more batteries, accumulators, or capacitors. It can be used, in particular, to house one or more electrical storage elements. It can also be used to house one or more mechanical storage elements, for example, a flywheel energy storage system, a hydraulic energy storage system, or a compressed air energy storage system. It can also be used to house control units and / or a braking resistor, especially an electrical braking resistor, and / or an air conditioning unit, especially a cooling unit or a heater, or a fan, a mains connection or transformer technology, or inverters or control cabinets. It can also serve as storage for spare parts, operating equipment, or tools. It can also serve as an operator compartment.The enclosure can also house a hydraulic unit, a compressed air unit, or a pump. It can also accommodate an electric charging station, particularly for land, water, or air vehicles, or for machinery such as robotic robots. The enclosure can also serve as storage space, especially a garage, or as living or sleeping quarters, particularly as emergency shelter. This list is merely illustrative and not exhaustive.

[0058] The satellite module, in particular its housing, and / or the first module can also serve as a storage location for one or more of the drums. For this purpose, it can, in particular, have a height-adjustable support. The support can, in particular, be height-adjustable mechanically and / or hydraulically. The satellite module can, in particular, have a holding device for securing the drum.

[0059] The drum can be placed on the satellite module, in particular by pivoting the winch device around a horizontal axis, specifically by lowering the part of the winch device containing the corresponding winch unit. It can then be easily removed from the winch device. Conversely, a new drum can be easily installed in the winch device using the satellite module.

[0060] This significantly simplifies the replacement of winches, and in particular the maintenance of the system.

[0061] The support for the drum does not need to be located on a satellite module connected to the central module. It can also be designed as an independent, separate component.

[0062] The holding device for the drum need not be designed as part of a satellite module connected to the central module. It can also be designed as an independent, separate component. The first module and / or one or more satellite modules can be equipped with one or more devices for securing the landed aircraft, in particular the landed kite. The devices can include locking means, in particular clamps, bolts, tabs, straps, gripping elements, or combinations thereof. They can also include surface elements. The surface elements can be designed to protect the landed wing from weather conditions such as radiation and moisture, as well as wind, in particular strong to hurricane-force winds. The securing devices can be designed so that the kite can be placed into the devices from the mast and / or with the aid of the mast.To prepare for takeoff, the wing can be removed from the fixtures using the mast.

[0063] The housing may, in particular, have an opening, especially a door. It may, in particular, be walkable.

[0064] The housing can be insulated, in particular thermally insulated.

[0065] The housing may be climate-controlled. It may be heated and / or cooled. Different housings, especially housings for different satellite modules, may have different climate control systems.

[0066] The housing can also form or serve as a buoyancy aid. This can be particularly advantageous when the base station is deployed on water, especially offshore. Like the first module, the module carrier can have one or more connection interfaces for attaching additional satellite modules. The connection interfaces of the satellite modules can be identical to those on the first module. This allows for flexible expansion of the base station. In principle, the base station can be expanded with any number of additional satellite modules.

[0067] According to another aspect, the module housing can be relocatable relative to the module carrier.

[0068] The module housing can be displaceable, in particular, linearly relative to the module support. It can be displaceable, in particular, radially. It can also be pivotable. It can be pivotable, in particular, relative to the module support and / or relative to the first module.

[0069] The publishing capability can be stepless. Multiple discrete displacement positions can also be provided. This can enable a particularly stable arrangement, especially of the module housing on the module carrier.

[0070] The module housing can be mounted on a rail system. This facilitates easy relocation, particularly stepless relocation. The module housing can be relocated in a controlled manner, especially during operation of the wind turbine, and in particular reversibly. This allows for flexible adaptation to different operating conditions. The relocation of certain components, especially the module housing, relative to the module carrier also offers advantages during transport. For transport, the individual modules, especially the satellite modules, can be configured compactly. They can be extended later, particularly during operation. Multiple module housings can also be arranged on a single module carrier for transport. For operation, the module housings are mounted on their respective module carriers.The smallest convex envelope of the satellite modules can be at least twice, in particular at least three times, and in particular at least five times larger than in a second displacement position of the module housing relative to the module carrier, especially in a displacement position intended for the operation of the wind turbine. This second displacement position of the module housing relative to the module carrier can, in particular, be a transport position.

[0071] In principle, the module housing can also be separated from the module carrier for transport.

[0072] Preferably, all modules of the base station, in particular all separable components of the base station, especially all satellite modules or their separable parts, and the first module fit into a standard container, in particular a shipping container, especially a 20-foot, 30-foot, or 40-foot container. Alternatively, the modules can be arranged on a standard container platform, in particular a shipping container platform, especially a 20-foot, 30-foot, or 40-foot container platform. This facilitates the transport of the system, especially the base station.

[0073] According to another aspect, the weight of the satellite modules and / or the first module, particularly during transport, is 0, 1 to 25 t, in particular 1 to 5 t, preferably at most 4 t, in particular at most 3 t.

[0074] The weight of the satellite modules can be at least 100 kg, at least 200 kg, at least 300 kg, at least 500 kg, or at least 1000 kg. This results in a particularly stable base station design. A lower weight is advantageous for easier transport.

[0075] The individual modules of the base station are dimensioned in such a way as to allow loading and assembly using a truck-mounted crane, in particular a mobile crane, or a forklift. Specifically, they allow loading and assembly using a machine with a maximum lifting capacity of no more than 8 t, in particular no more than 6 t, and in particular no more than 4 t. Loading and assembly of the components of the base station, in particular the individual modules of the base station, is therefore preferably possible without a heavy-duty crane.

[0076] According to another aspect, the satellite module can have a receptacle for attaching a weight element or a buoyancy element. This makes the satellite module particularly easy to weight down on site, especially after it has been connected to the first module.

[0077] The satellite module can be weighted down in a reversible manner, enabling relocation and flexible installation, particularly adapting to specific conditions.

[0078] A cavity, in particular a closable cavity, a slot, a pocket or a frame can serve as a receptacle.

[0079] The weighting element can be passive. This includes, in particular, non-electrical and / or non-functional elements. Earth, sand, stones, water, or metallic elements can serve as the weighting element.

[0080] The weight element may also include active and / or functional components. In this regard, please refer to the preceding exemplary list of possible components that may be arranged in the housing.

[0081] A buoyancy element can be viewed as a weight element with "negative weight".

[0082] The weight elements can be attached to the module support. They can be arranged to be displaceable relative to the module support, in particular displaceable in a controllable manner, and in particular reversible. The weight elements can also be arranged within the module housing.

[0083] The weight elements can be arranged, in particular, on the leeward side of the first module.

[0084] The total weight of the weight elements that can be arranged on a single satellite module can, in particular, be as great as the weight of the satellite module. It can, in particular, be greater, in particular at least 1.5 times, in particular at least 2 times, in particular at least 3 times the weight of the satellite module.

[0085] The total weight of the weight elements that can be arranged on a single satellite module can be at least 500 kg, and in particular at least 1000 kg.

[0086] According to another aspect, the first module may have a rotatably mounted receiving device for receiving the winch device and / or a holding device for an aircraft or a guiding device for one or more traction elements, in particular ropes, of the aircraft.

[0087] The recording device can be rotatable about a vertical axis, in particular the yaw axis. It can, in particular, have a yaw bearing.

[0088] The receiving device may, in particular, have a feedthrough. The receiving device may have a mounting frame, in particular in the form of a support arm, for receiving the winch device. The receiving device may, in particular, be designed as a mounting frame.

[0089] The mounting frame can be profiled.

[0090] According to another aspect, the first module can have a feedthrough and / or an interface for a data line and / or a power line and / or one or more lines for one or more fluids. The latter can be, in particular, water, air, or a hydraulic fluid.

[0091] The device can include a slip ring transmission for transmitting electrical power and / or electrical and / or optical data. Wireless data transmission is also possible.

[0092] The first module may also contain a generator for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. One or more control devices may also be located in the first module.

[0093] A basic system according to the invention for a wind turbine comprises, in particular, a base station as described above and a winch device, wherein the winch device is mounted on or attached to the first module of the base station. Alternatively, the winch device can also be provided as a component of the base station or be designated as a component of the base station. In this case, the wind turbine mast, which is usually significantly larger in a longitudinal direction, can be separated from the winch device, particularly for transporting the base station.

[0094] According to another aspect, the winches and the aircraft can be arranged on opposite sides relative to the yaw bearing.

[0095] Another objective of the invention is to improve a wind turbine.

[0096] This task is solved by a wind power plant with a base station according to the preceding description, a winch device for controlling an aircraft which is mounted on or attached to the first module of the base station, and an aircraft, in particular a kite.

[0097] The advantages stem from those of the base station.

[0098] The wind turbine can be, in particular, a three-line kite system. It can also be a single-line, two-line, four-line system, or a system with more than four lines.

[0099] It can be, in particular, a kite system with two or more lines, where the direction and angle of attack are controlled by an actuator, especially a winch, at the base station. It can also be a kite system with one or more lines, where the direction and angle of attack are controlled by control devices located on or in the wing.

[0100] The kite system can, in particular, have a rigid airfoil. It can also have flexible airfoils, especially airfoils with elements subjected to differential pressure or textile airfoils subjected to differential pressure. It can also be a kite system with an airfoil that incorporates rigid elements, such as carbon tubes, and textile surface elements.

[0101] Further details and specifics of the invention will become apparent from the description of an exemplary embodiment with reference to the figures. These show:

[0102] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an invention.

[0103] Exemplary design of a base station for a wind turbine,

[0104] Fig. 2 shows a top view of the base station shown in Fig. 1,

[0105] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the base station shown in Fig. 1,

[0106] Fig. 4 shows a front view of the base station shown in Fig. 1 and

[0107] Fig. 5 shows a section along the section line VV from Fig. 4. 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.

[0108] The winch device 5 and / or the launching device 6 can 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 can also include the launching device 6.

[0109] The first module 3 is also referred to as the central module.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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 3 The modules are not merely fasteners such as anchors.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] The receiving 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. 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 part 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 in particular connected to each other so as to pivot about a horizontal pivot axis.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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-fit, the mast 16 in the support structure 33. The mast 16 is in particular rigidly connected to the receiving shell 31. If the two support structure elements are pivoted relative to each other, the second support structure element can remain stationary relative to the base station 1. The first support structure element can remain stationary relative to the mast. This allows for consistent cable guidance.

[0118] The second supporting structure element, in particular the base beam, 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.

[0119] A yaw bearing serves to connect the second supporting structure element, in particular the base support, with the base station 1.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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. The mast 16 can also have a lattice structure. Alternative designs of the mast 16 are also possible.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] The winch device 5 can be connected to the starting device 6 either permanently or reversibly.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] The winch device 5 can include further winches 30 for receiving control cables. In particular, two winches 30 can be provided for receiving the control cables. The winches 30 for receiving the control cables are also referred to as control cable winches or (control cable) drums.

[0132] 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.

[0133] The steering winches can also function as generators and form generator winches.

[0134] 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.

[0135] The winch 19 and / or the winches 30 are connected to the mast 16 by means of the support structure 33, in particular by means of the mounting device for the mast 16, such that the cable routing from the respective drum relative to the mast 16 remains unchanged when the mast 16 is pivoted. The satellite modules 4 of the base station 1 each comprise a module carrier 22 and a module housing 23. This is not mandatory. It is also possible to design satellite modules 4 without a module carrier 22 or without a module housing 23.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] The weights can be used to reinforce satellite module 4. The weights can also be used to increase the stability of base station 1.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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, loading and / or unloading of the base station 1 from a transport vehicle, in particular a truck, and in particular a low-loader.

[0150] 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. Base station (1) for a wind turbine (2) comprising 1.

1. a first module (3) for storing a winch device (5) and / or a launching device (6) for an aircraft and 1.

2. at least one satellite module (4), 1.

3. wherein the first module (3) has at least one connection interface (24) via which the at least one satellite module (4) can be connected to the first module (3) in a force-transmitting manner such that the first module (3) is supported against tilting moments expected during the operation of the wind turbine (2).

2. Base station (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first module (3) has a base surface and the at least one satellite module (4) has a center of mass which is at the level of the base surface of the first module (3) or above it, and / or the at least one satellite module (4) has a base surface with a center of gravity which is at the level of the base surface of the first module (3) or above it.

3. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one satellite module (4) has a base area of ​​at least 0.1 m² 2 exhibits.

4. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one satellite module (4) can be connected to the first module (3) in such a way that it is radially direction (Ri) is aligned to a vertical yaw axis (Ai) of the base station (1).

5. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a plurality of satellite modules (4), wherein two adjacent satellite modules (4) have a distance of at least 1 m.

6. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a support device (7) for supporting the winch device (5) and / or the launch device (6).

7. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one satellite module (4) comprises a module carrier (22) and a module housing (23).

8. Base station (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the module housing (23) is displaceable relative to the module carrier (22).

9. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one satellite module (4) has a receptacle (26) for receiving a weight element or a buoyancy element.

10. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first module (3) has a rotatably mounted receiving device (8) for receiving a winch device (5) and / or a holding device for an aircraft.

11. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first module (3) has a feedthrough (10) and / or an interface (10) for a data line and / or a power line and / or a line for a medium.

12. Base station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first module (3) has a yaw bearing with a feedthrough (10) and / or an interface (10) for a data line and / or a power line and / or a line for a medium.

13. Basic system (1) for a wind turbine (2) comprising 13.

1. a base station (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and 13.

2. a winch device (5) for controlling an aircraft, 13.

3. wherein the winch device (5) is mounted on or attached to the first module (3) of the base station (1).

14. wind turbine (2) having 14.

1. a base station (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, 14.

2. a winch device (5) for controlling an aircraft, 14.2.

1. wherein the winch device (5) is mounted on or attached to the first module (3) of the base station (1), and 14.

3. an aircraft.

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.

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