Wind Turbine Blade Braking Mechanism with Segmented Root Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wind turbine blade handling systems face challenges with mounting large blades, require cranes for support, pose hazards during operations, and risk blade damage due to complex and risky loading processes.
Innovation Solution
A wind turbine blade handling system comprising a root device with a support member and rollers for rotating the blade, along with a braking mechanism that can apply rapid or gradual braking forces, powered by the same energy source, and featuring a flexible strap or band for secure blade handling and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional enclosed ring carts are used to support wind turbine blades, then blade support is provided, but the carts become difficult to mount and require cranes for large blades
Solution Approach 1:
The cart structure is divided into separate modular components including individual support brackets that can be independently positioned and attached to the blade, eliminating the need to maneuver a complete enclosed ring structure into place
Solution Approach 2:
The essential support function is extracted from the enclosed ring structure, allowing individual support elements to be used without the cumbersome circular framework, thereby simplifying mounting operations
2Strength
If conventional enclosed ring carts are used, then blade support is provided, but people and equipment are hindered from accessing the blade leading and trailing edges
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into discrete brackets positioned at specific locations along the blade, leaving the spaces between brackets open for personnel and equipment access, whereas an enclosed ring would block all access
3Strength
If conventional blade carts with closed ring structure are used, then blade support is achieved, but the system complexity increases and blade damage risk increases during loading
Solution Approach 1:
The closed ring structure is segmented into individual brackets that can be independently positioned and attached, eliminating the complexity of maneuvering a complete ring structure and reducing the steps required for loading and unloading operations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables efficient, ergonomic, and safe handling of larger blades by reducing the need for cranes, enhancing accessibility, and minimizing blade damage through controlled rotation and braking, thereby improving operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one roller, the roller having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blade and configured to rotate the blade
Implementation Method 2
a braking mechanism, the braking mechanism extending above the blade and releasably secured to at least one side of the root support member and configured to apply a braking force to the blade
Data Source
AI summary
A wind turbine blade rotating and braking apparatus comprising: a root device including: a root support member having an upper surface with a radius of curvature and configured to receive a portion (e.g. root) of a wind turbine blade, rollers having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blade and configured to rotate the blade; braking mount on the sides of the root support member; and a braking mechanism (e.g. strap or band) fixedly attached to the first mount, releasably attached to the second mount and extending above the blade to apply a braking force to the blade. Once applied, the braking force can be maintained by a locking pin.