Inflatable Helical Tower Assembly for Vortex Shedding Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tall cylindrical structures face vortex shedding due to strong winds, leading to potential damage and increased construction costs, as existing aerodynamic solutions are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
An inflatable modular aerodynamic device with a helical structure, comprising triangular or semi-circular cross-section bodies, is adhered to the tower surface, using fins and guides for stability and adhesion, and can be installed and uninstalled by unmanned aerial vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional aerodynamic devices are used on tall cylindrical structures, then vortex shedding can be reduced, but the construction cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic device is divided into multiple modular inflatable bodies that can be independently manufactured and then assembled on the tower. Each module has a standardized geometry (triangular or semi-circular cross-section) that simplifies manufacturing while collectively providing the aerodynamic function to prevent vortex shedding.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses inflatable structures that can dynamically adjust their shape and rigidity based on operational requirements. The inflatable nature allows for easy deployment and removal, reducing permanent structural modifications while maintaining aerodynamic effectiveness during operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If permanent aerodynamic structures are installed on towers, then vortex shedding prevention is effective, but installation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic device is designed as a temporary, deployable structure rather than a permanent installation. The inflatable modules can be easily deployed when needed and removed when not required, significantly reducing installation and maintenance costs while maintaining effectiveness during operational periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses inexpensive inflatable materials that can be repeatedly deployed and removed without significant degradation. This approach replaces expensive permanent structural modifications with cost-effective, temporary aerodynamic solutions that achieve the same protective function.
3Stability of the object's composition
If aerodynamic devices are made rigid for stability, then structural integrity improves, but ease of installation and removal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a flexible inflatable state during installation to a rigid stabilized state during operation. Stabilizing elements are deployed after inflation to provide structural rigidity, while the inflatable nature maintains ease of installation and removal. This dynamic transition resolves the contradiction between stability and installation ease.
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 device effectively prevents vortex shedding, reducing structural damage and installation costs while maintaining stability and ease of deployment.
Implementation Method 1
When an object is subjected to the flow of a fluid such as air or water, oscillating turbulence occurs from which vortices are shed. This is known as vortex shedding.
Implementation Method 2
at least one surface of each body of the at least one modular body is made of a material and/or comprises a coating (e.g., resin) with a static and/or dynamic coefficient of friction equal to or less than a predetermined coefficient of friction
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an aerodynamic device (10) comprising at least one inflatable modular body (1) configured to be adhered by a base (2) of each body of the at least one inflatable modular body to a tower (30), the base (2) of each body of the at least one inflatable modular body (1) comprises at least one fin (4) and the device comprises at least one inflation valve (7, 7') in one or more bodies of the at least one inflatable modular body (1). The invention further relates to an assembly with a plurality of aerodynamic devices, a tower with one or more aerodynamic devices, a method for installing and a method for uninstalling, respectively, one or more aerodynamic devices.