Cable Routing for Multi-Rotor Wind Turbines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-rotor wind turbine systems face challenges in effectively routing cables due to twisting issues during yawing, and existing solutions like slip rings are expensive and inefficient for large structures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a cable routing system using circumferential cable trays and guiding elements that collect and manage cables during yawing, allowing them to wind and unwind between inner and outer trays, and the use of auto-adjusting cable length mechanisms to minimize friction and wear, while optimizing cable path and length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If cables are routed directly from rotors to ground without cable trays, then the cable routing is simple, but the cables experience twisting and wear during yawing
Solution Approach 1:
Cable trays are introduced as intermediary structures between the cables and the yawing motion. The trays collect and guide cables along predetermined paths, mediating the mechanical stress during yawing and preventing direct twisting of the cables themselves
Solution Approach 2:
The cable routing is moved from a direct radial path to a circumferential path around the support structure. By routing cables along the circumference rather than directly through the center, the system adds a dimensional aspect that allows cables to accommodate yawing motion without twisting
2Reliability
If slip rings are used to manage cables during yawing, then cable twisting is prevented, but the cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex slip ring assemblies with simpler, passive cable trays and guiding elements. These simpler components achieve the same functional goal of preventing cable twisting without the high cost and complexity of active electrical contacts
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the cable management function from the rotating support arm and relocates it to stationary cable trays mounted on the tower. This separation removes the need for complex rotating cable management mechanisms like slip rings
3Ease of manufacture
If cable length is fixed, then installation is simple, but friction and wear increase during repeated yawing
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing system is made dynamic through adjustable cable length mechanisms. Cables can be extended or repositioned within the cable trays to optimize their path during yawing, reducing friction and wear while maintaining simple installation procedures
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a wind turbine system comprising a plurality of wind turbines mounted to a common support structure (4) by a support arm arrangement (10) comprising a mount portion (12)and at least one arm (13) extending from said mount portion and carrying a respective wind turbine (6).Said support arm arrangement (10) is capable of yawing around said support structure (4); and said wind turbine system comprises an improved arrangement for cable guiding in this connection.