Modular Wind Turbine Foundation Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine foundations are difficult to produce on-site, leading to inefficiencies and lower quality, particularly for heavy on-shore installations, and existing steel foundations are not well-suited for such applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular foundation system comprising a central foundation member and circular or polygonal segments connected via locking elements, such as projections and recesses, with optional fixation means like a steel band or concrete grout, allowing for faster and higher-quality construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional in-situ concrete casting technology is used to create foundations on-site, then the foundation can be produced locally, but the construction process is time-consuming and difficult to produce with high quality
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation is divided into multiple pre-cast concrete segments that can be manufactured separately in controlled factory environments and then assembled on-site. This segmentation allows each segment to be produced with high precision using standardized molds and quality control processes, while the modular nature enables rapid assembly without time-consuming on-site concrete casting operations.
2Strength
If pre-fabricated piles are hammered into the ground or piles are cast in situ, then foundation strength can be achieved, but the construction process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation segments are designed to be connected through integrated connection elements that combine multiple functions: structural joining, alignment adjustment, and load transfer. These connection elements are built into the segment design itself, eliminating the need for separate pile driving or complex on-site reinforcement operations, thereby achieving required strength while simplifying the construction process.
3Ease of operation
If steel foundation segments are used as disclosed in EP 1058787 B1, then assembly may be simplified, but the foundation is not well suited for heavy on-shore wind turbine installations
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation utilizes composite construction combining pre-cast concrete segments with integrated steel connection elements and reinforcement. The concrete segments provide the necessary mass and compressive strength to support heavy on-shore wind turbines, while the steel connection components facilitate straightforward assembly through bolted or welded joints. This composite approach maintains the ease of modular assembly while achieving the required load-bearing capacity for heavy turbine installations.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~10
AI summary
The invention relates to a foundation (1), particularly a foundation of a wind turbine, comprising a central foundation member (7) and a plurality of foundation segments (2) which are segments of a circular, ring shaped or polygonal foundation element and which are connected to a circular, ring shaped or polygonal element surrounding the central foundation member.