Modular Peripheral Bearing Support for Large Wind Turbines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine bearing technologies face challenges in supporting large-dimension turbines without requiring conventional axial load and high-speed revolution support, and they are limited by the need for single-piece construction.
Innovation Solution
A peripheral bearing support system comprising a fixed peripheral support element, a rotating washer element, a bearing transition element, and a non-conventional axial bearing, which allows for modular construction in identical arc pieces and supports turbines without axial loads or high-speed revolutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a bearing of large dimensions is constructed in a single piece, then structural integrity is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing is divided into multiple identical arc-shaped modules that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together to form the complete large-dimension bearing. Each module contains a portion of the rolling elements and raceway, allowing for simplified manufacturing while maintaining structural integrity through the modular assembly
2Force
If conventional bearings are used to support large-dimension turbines, then load support capability is improved, but the requirement for axial load support and high-speed revolution support increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the unnecessary requirements for axial load support and high-speed revolution support from the bearing design. The bearing is specifically configured to support only radial loads at lower speeds, removing complex axial support mechanisms and high-speed design features that are not needed for peripheral-supported turbines
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing a bearing that supports both axial and radial loads like conventional bearings, the invention inverts the approach by designing a bearing that supports only radial loads. This simplified configuration is achieved by arranging rolling elements between an inner ring and outer ring without axial support structures
3Speed
If a bearing supports high-speed revolutions, then dynamic performance is improved, but the manufacturing precision and material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the operating speed parameter from high-speed to low-speed operation. This parameter change allows for reduced manufacturing precision requirements, as the bearing does not need to withstand the centrifugal forces and dynamic loads associated with high-speed rotation
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 stable support of peripheral support turbines with large dimensions, overcoming the limitations of single-piece construction and conventional bearing requirements, while allowing for modular assembly and robust weight support.
Implementation Method 1
a bearing of large dimensions is provided which does not require to support high revolutions or axial loads and can be modular by its construction in individual and identical arc pieces
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a peripheral bearing support system which is suitable for stably supporting a peripheral support turbine by means of a peripheral bearing, and comprising a fixed element of the peripheral support, a rotating washer element, a bearing transition element and a non-conventional axial bearing; wherein the washer rotating element is suitable to be in contact with the peripheral support turbine and is positioned in between two ball beds of the non-conventional axial bearing; wherein each ball bed is between said washer rotating element and one of the sections of the bearing transition element.