Folding Platform for Wind Turbine Tower Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The on-site assembly of power and transformer units in wind turbine towers is complex and time-consuming due to equipment weight and platform size restrictions, requiring separate transportation and assembly of multiple metal components.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical structure comprising a first and second platform, each with stationary and folding sections connected by hinges and bolts, allowing for easy assembly and transportation by folding the sections during transport and unfolding for mounting on the wind turbine tower flange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the power unit and transformer unit are mounted on a platform at the bottom of the wind turbine tower, then the equipment can be installed and operated, but the on-site assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming due to equipment weight and platform size restrictions requiring separate transportation and assembly of multiple metal components
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is divided into multiple detachable components including a base component with inner flange, a tower component with outer flange, and a frame component with leg sections. These segmented parts can be transported separately and assembled on-site through simple flange connections, reducing transportation difficulties and assembly complexity while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is positioned inside the tower such that the leg section rests on the inside end section of the base fitting, creating a nested configuration. This nested arrangement allows compact transportation of multiple components and simplifies on-site assembly by reducing the number of separate connection operations required
2Strength
If the platform is constructed from multiple metal crossbeams and flat plates assembled together, then the platform can support the required equipment, but the on-site assembly process becomes quite complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The platform structure is segmented into pre-assembled components (base fitting, tower, frame) that maintain structural strength through rigid flange connections. These segments are designed to be assembled in a logical sequence on-site, significantly reducing assembly time compared to constructing the entire platform from individual metal pieces
Solution Approach 2:
The base fitting, tower, and frame are prepared as pre-assembled units with integrated connection features before transportation to the site. This preliminary assembly of critical structural components ensures strength requirements are met while minimizing on-site assembly operations and time consumption
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to a mechanical structure for equipment disposed in a wind turbine tower which is simple to install and convenient to transport. Such a mechanical structure comprises a first platform and a post, wherein the first platform is fixed to a flange of the wind turbine tower by means of the post. The first platform comprises a first stationary section and two first folding sections, wherein the two first folding sections are connected to the first stationary section and can be fixed to the first stationary section. The present application also relates to a wind power generator comprising the mechanical structure.