Modular Tower Platform Installation Tool for Variable Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for installing platforms into wind turbine tower sections are project-specific, making them costly and labor-intensive, and not adaptable to different tower diameters or types of platforms.
Innovation Solution
A modular tool comprising two body elements with adjustable connecting beams, allowing for easy adaptation to various tower diameters and types, with features like pivotable legs, skidding systems, and adjustable support struts for efficient platform installation and access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If project-specific designed stands are used to accommodate the geometry of platforms and tower sections, then the installation can be completed for a specific project, but the stands cannot be used for different kinds of platforms and/or tower sections, leading to high costs and labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The stand is designed as a universal device that can accommodate multiple tower diameters and different platform types. The stand body includes adjustable support elements and modular components that can be reconfigured for different installation scenarios, eliminating the need for project-specific custom designs while maintaining adaptability to various tower and platform geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is divided into modular segments including the stand body, support struts, and adjustable components that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the same basic structure to be adapted to different tower diameters and platform types by adjusting individual modules rather than requiring completely different stands for each project.
2Ease of manufacture
If project-specific designed stands are used, then installation can be completed for a specific configuration, but new stands must be manufactured for each new project, increasing costs and labor
Solution Approach 1:
The stand design incorporates universal interfaces and adjustable mechanisms that allow a single manufactured unit to serve multiple projects with different tower and platform configurations. The stand body includes standardized mounting points and adjustable support elements that can be reconfigured without requiring custom manufacturing for each new project.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand allows adjustment of key parameters such as support strut length, angle, and position to accommodate different tower diameters and platform geometries. By changing these parameters through mechanical adjustment rather than manufacturing new components, the same stand can be reused across multiple projects with varying specifications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-configuration stands are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the stands cannot be adjusted to different tower diameters, requiring multiple stand types
Solution Approach 1:
The stand incorporates dynamic, adjustable components including telescopic support struts, pivotable legs, and movable mounting elements. These dynamic features allow the stand configuration to be changed in the field to accommodate different tower diameters and platform types without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is segmented into independently adjustable modules that can be configured for different tower diameters. Each module can be adjusted separately, allowing operators to quickly reconfigure the stand for different projects without having to adjust the entire structure, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a modular tool for installing a platform into a tower section of a wind turbine tower, comprising a first body element, a second body element, wherein each body element has a first base plate, on which the tower section rests in use of the modular tool, and a second base plate, which rests on a foundation in use of the modular tool, wherein the base plates are spaced apart from each other and are arranged parallel to each other, and at least one connecting beam that detachable connects the body elements to each other and that defines a width of a gap between the body elements. Due to the fact that the at least one connecting beam detachable connects the body elements to each other, the modular tool can be easily adapted to different tower diameters by replacing the at least one connecting beam.