Modular Nacelle Wiring via Multicore Signal Cables

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity of wiring numerous signal lines in the nacelle of a wind turbine generator leads to increased time and error rates due to the large number of connections required, necessitating a more efficient method for electrical communication between devices and sensors.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a modular wind turbine generator design with a controller and devices connected via multicore cables and connection mechanisms, including signal relay boards, to facilitate easy and error-reduced wiring of signal lines, utilizing physically distinct connectors to ensure correct connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a large number of signal lines are wired in the nacelle to connect various devices and sensors, then electrical communication between all components is achieved, but the wiring time increases and wiring mistakes occur more frequently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical communication reliabilityVSAvoidwiring time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the nacelle into multiple modules (first module, second module, third module, etc.), each containing specific devices and signal lines. This segmentation allows parallel wiring work in different modules, reducing total wiring time while maintaining complete electrical communication across all components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces connection mechanisms (connection elements, connection mechanisms) as intermediaries between modules. These standardized connection interfaces enable quick coupling and decoupling of modules, significantly reducing wiring time while ensuring reliable electrical connections. The connection mechanisms serve as mediators that simplify the complex wiring task into modular assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a large number of signal lines are wired in the nacelle to connect various devices and sensors, then complete electrical communication is achieved, but wiring mistakes increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical communication completenessVSAvoidwiring accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the wiring system into modular units with defined connection interfaces, the patent reduces the complexity of wiring tasks in each module. This segmentation minimizes the chance of mistakes while ensuring complete electrical communication across all modules through standardized connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection mechanisms employ asymmetric design where connection elements have specific geometric features that allow coupling only in the correct orientation and configuration. This asymmetry prevents wiring mistakes by making incorrect connections physically impossible, thereby ensuring wiring accuracy while maintaining complete electrical communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Reliability

If traditional wiring methods are used for signal lines, then all connections can be established, but the complexity of the wiring process increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection completenessVSAvoidwiring process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the wiring process into modular assembly steps, where each module is wired independently and then connected through standardized interfaces. This segmentation reduces the overall complexity of the wiring process while ensuring complete connections across all modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection mechanisms are designed with universal interfaces that can connect different modules regardless of their specific function or location. This universality simplifies the wiring process by providing a standardized connection method for all modules, reducing process complexity while maintaining complete electrical communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8057256B2Signal line wiring in nacelle of wind turbine generator
Publication Date: 2011.11.15 MITSUBISHI HEAVY IND LTD
  • US8057256B2 patent drawing
  • US8057256B2 patent drawing
  • US8057256B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wind turbine generator includes: a nacelle provided with a plurality of modules; a controller provided in a first module out of the plurality of modules; a first device provided in a second module out of the plurality of modules. The controller and the first device are connected with a device-side connection mechanism and a controller-side connection mechanism to allow electrical communications between the controller and the first device. The device-side connection mechanism includes: a first connection element; and a first multicore cable including a plurality of signal lines with one end connected to the controller and the other end connected to the first connection element. The device-side connection mechanism provides an electrical connection between the first connection element and the first device.