Wind Turbine Nacelle Generator Support Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine nacelle designs waste significant space, particularly in height, due to the placement of the generator support structure, which limits the accommodation of higher loads and medium-voltage components, and requires extensive connection constructions and costly logistics for transportation.
Innovation Solution
A nacelle design where the generator support is directly connected to the nacelle cladding, replacing the need for separate side girders and floor components, utilizing parallel lateral main supports made of cast iron with transverse cross members and sheet metal elements, allowing for a more compact and rigid structure that can accommodate components directly on the floor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the generator support is placed at a certain distance from the bottom of the nacelle casing with separate floor parts, then the generator can be mounted on the support structure, but a lot of installation space is lost inside the nacelle
Solution Approach 1:
The generator support is merged with the nacelle casing by directly connecting it to the cladding, eliminating the need for separate floor parts and intermediate structures. This integration combines the support function with the casing structure, maximizing usable space while reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate floor parts made of GRP are extracted and eliminated from the design. The generator support is taken out from its traditional position at a distance from the casing and repositioned to connect directly to the cladding, removing unnecessary intermediate components.
2Power
If the performance class is increased or medium-voltage components are integrated into the nacelle, then the nominal output increases, but the available space within the nacelle must be used more efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The generator support extends in multiple dimensions by connecting directly to the nacelle casing cladding, utilizing the vertical and lateral space more effectively. This dimensional optimization allows higher power components to be accommodated within the same nacelle volume.
3Strength
If a more rigid support structure is required to carry additional system components, then the load-bearing capacity increases, but the structure complexity and material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure utilizes composite construction by combining the nacelle casing cladding with the generator support elements, creating a rigid load-bearing structure that distributes forces effectively across the integrated assembly without requiring excessive structural complexity.
4Ease of manufacture
If separate connection constructions are used for the generator support and nacelle casing, then the components can be assembled, but costly logistics and large-scale transportation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The generator support and nacelle casing are merged into an integrated structure with direct connections, eliminating the need for separate connection constructions and reducing the number of parts that require transportation and assembly.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a nacelle for a wind turbine. As is known, the nacelle of a wind turbine comprises a supporting structure, a non-load-bearing nacelle enclosure with a supporting framework consisting of rafters, struts, and profiles, and turbine components arranged inside the nacelle enclosure. In particular, the part of the nacelle that serves as the generator support is the subject of the invention. The object of the invention is to develop a solution that creates more usable space within the nacelle, especially in terms of height. Furthermore, the structure of the generator support is to be reinforced to enable it to transfer higher loads into the turbine frame. Cost savings are to be achieved in the areas of the generator support and the nacelle enclosure by exploiting synergies.The nacelle according to the invention for a wind turbine comprises a machine carrier as a supporting structure, which is connected to a tower of the wind turbine, and a generator carrier. A non-load-bearing nacelle cladding is also included. According to the invention, the generator carrier is directly mechanically connected to the nacelle cladding and assumes the functions of the nacelle cladding in the lower area of the nacelle. Permanent or detachable mechanical connections can be provided here.