Positioning Device for Inclined Post-Tensioning Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection systems for post-tensioning elements in concrete foundations of wind turbine towers face challenges due to the inclination of post-tensioning elements, leading to difficulties in secure attachment and potential damage during installation.

Innovation Solution

A positioning device that includes a cylindrical vertical wall configured to cast a vertical through-hole in the foundation, allowing the post-tensioning element to be oriented in an inclined disposition, with a diameter that is between 1.5 and 2 times the diameter of the post-tensioning element, and a height greater than the vertical through-hole for easy removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the post-tensioning element is installed in an inclined disposition to match the conical tower geometry, then the structural integrity and load transmission are improved, but the connection difficulty and risk of damage during installation increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidconnection difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning device acts as an intermediary tool between the vertical through-hole and the inclined post-tensioning element. It provides a guided pathway that accommodates the inclined element during installation while maintaining the vertical hole structure, thereby reducing connection difficulty without compromising structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning device is installed in advance within the vertical through-hole before the post-tensioning element is inserted. This preliminary action creates a prepared pathway that guides the inclined element during insertion, preventing damage and simplifying the connection process while maintaining the required structural configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If the diameter of the vertical through-hole is reduced to match the post-tensioning element diameter, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the tolerance for installation is reduced increasing the risk of damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehole diameter precisionVSAvoidinstallation safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning device serves as a mediator between the precisely manufactured vertical hole and the inclined post-tensioning element. It absorbs the dimensional mismatch and orientation difference, allowing the hole to maintain precise manufacturing tolerances while the positioning device provides the necessary clearance and guidance for safe element insertion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning device provides a cushioning effect by creating a tolerance zone between the precise vertical hole and the inclined post-tensioning element. This beforehand cushioning prevents direct contact and potential damage between the element and hole walls during installation, while maintaining the required manufacturing precision of the foundation hole

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentEP4495327A1Positioning device for orienting at least one post-tensioning element in a concrete foundation

Publication Date: 2025.01.22 NORDEX ENERGY SPAIN SAU

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AI summary

A positioning device for orienting at least one post-tensioning element in a concrete foundation, to a positioning system for orienting a post-tensioning element in a concrete foundation, to a concrete foundation of a tower of a wind turbine, to a wind turbine, and to a method of manufacturing a wind turbine.