Orthogonal Connecting Element for Wind Tower Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing connections between partial ring segments in wind power installation towers are complex, prone to corrosion, require high maintenance, and have limited positioning accuracy, leading to increased production and maintenance costs, especially due to the use of screw connections that are subject to exacting requirements and short maintenance intervals.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element with orthogonal side and transverse walls, featuring openings for fastening elements that allow for a tensile load configuration, reducing maintenance intensity by minimizing the need for frequent screw tightening and avoiding shear stresses, thus simplifying the connection process and reducing maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screw connections with protruding reinforcement are used to connect partial ring segments, then the connection can be achieved, but the maintenance intensity is high and maintenance intervals are short
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the loading parameter from shear stress to tensile load by reconfiguring the connection geometry. The new connecting element design allows forces to act primarily in tension along the longitudinal axis, which eliminates the need for frequent maintenance while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the connection. The connecting element has a specific geometry with a first side wall, second side wall, upper transverse wall, and lower transverse wall that creates localized stress distribution optimized for tensile loading, reducing maintenance requirements
2Reliability
If traditional connection methods with multiple components are used, then the connection can be achieved, but the device complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated connecting element. This element combines the functions of reinforcement connection, force transfer, and structural alignment into one component, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects partial ring segments, transfers tensile and compressive forces, provides structural alignment, and enables easy assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed
3Strength
If traditional screw connections are used, then the connection can be made, but screw tightening requires frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent fundamentally changes the stress parameter from shear to tensile loading. This parameter change allows the connection to maintain strength over extended periods without tightening, as tensile connections are inherently more stable and less prone to loosening than shear connections
4Ease of manufacture
If partial ring segments are connected with traditional methods, then the tower section can be assembled, but positioning accuracy is limited to approximately ±10 mm
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element design creates equal stress distribution across the connection interface, which naturally compensates for small positioning variations. This equipotential stress distribution allows for easier assembly while achieving better than ±10 mm positioning accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting element for inserting into a wind power installation tower segment. A wind power installation tower section and a wind power installation tower. A wind power installation and methods for connecting partial ring segments. The connecting element comprises a first side wall with a first opening which can be penetrated by a fastening element, and a second side wall lying opposite the first side wall with a second opening which can be penetrated by a fastening element, an upper transverse wall with two upper openings which can each be penetrated by a mounting fastening element, and a lower transverse wall lying opposite the upper transverse wall with two lower openings which can each be penetrated by a mounting fastening element; wherein the upper and lower transverse wall are arranged substantially orthogonally to the first and second side wall and connect said side walls.