Movable Hoisting Lugs for Wind Turbine Tower Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing load on wind turbines in deep-water seas requires more versatile and cost-effective tower hoisting tools, as existing tools are not universally compatible with different tower sizes and configurations.
Innovation Solution
A tower section with through holes in its side wall for hoisting lugs, which can selectively extend out for hoisting, eliminating the need for specialized tower hoisting tools and allowing for universal compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different tower sizes are used in different farms, then the tower structure can be optimized for specific load requirements, but multiple specialized hoisting tools must be manufactured for each tower type
Solution Approach 1:
The hoisting lug is designed with a universal structure that can be used across different tower types and sizes. Instead of creating specialized hoisting tools for each tower configuration, the patent employs a standardized hoisting lug that attaches to various tower sections through compatible connection interfaces, allowing one tool design to serve multiple functions across different farm requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The hoisting lug incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow it to adapt dynamically to different tower configurations. The lug can be positioned and secured at various locations on the tower structure, enabling a single hoisting tool design to accommodate different tower diameters, heights, and load requirements without requiring multiple specialized tools
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized hoisting tools are manufactured for different tower types, then each tool can be optimized for its specific tower configuration, but the manufacturing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a universal hoisting lug design that can be manufactured in standard quantities and applied across multiple tower types. This single standardized component replaces the need to manufacture multiple specialized tools, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining the ability to match different tower configurations through adjustable attachment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The hoisting lug design incorporates adjustable parameters such as attachment position, connection angle, and securing mechanism that can be modified to suit different tower configurations. This allows a single manufactured tool to adapt to various tower types without requiring custom manufacturing for each case, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs
3Reliability
If dedicated tower hoisting tools are used for each tower type, then the hoisting process can be precisely controlled for specific tower characteristics, but the assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hoisting lug is designed with pre-configured attachment features and standardized connection interfaces that enable rapid assembly and disassembly. The lug comes pre-equipped with necessary mounting components and connection mechanisms, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site assembly procedures required by dedicated specialized tools
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
This solution reduces manufacturing and operational costs by eliminating the need for multiple specialized hoisting tools, simplifies the hoisting process, and improves efficiency by allowing for the use of standard hoisting lugs.
Implementation Method 1
an outer ring of the bearing rotates around a central axis of the hoisting lug, which meets the needs of rotation during the hoisting of the tower section, avoids the sliding friction between the sling and the hoisting lug
Data Source
AI summary
A tower section and a wind generating set. The tower section comprises a tower section body and hoisting lugs, wherein through holes are provided in the sidewall of the tower section body, and an inner cavity of the tower section is communicated with the outside by means of the through holes; the hoisting lugs are provided in the through holes, are movable along central lines of the through holes, and can move between a first position where the hoisting lugs extend out of the tower section body and a second position where the hoisting lugs are retracted to the tower section body, so as to hoist the tower section. Because the hoisting lugs can selectively extend out, a tower hoist is not needed to be connected to a flange in a tower section hoisting process, and the hoist is mounted on the hoisting lugs.