Roller Pitch Bearing Structure for Wind Load Misalignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Pitch bearings in wind turbines experience oscillations and deformations under high wind loads, leading to misalignment and wear, particularly in the default pitch position, which existing solutions like preloading or increasing component size either increase weight or manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

A roller pitch bearing with a limiting structure that radially extends from one bearing component to the other, featuring an engaging portion that limits radial movement between the components, preventing separation and maintaining alignment under high loads in a cost-effective manner.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If preloading the radial rollers or increasing the size of the rings is used to reduce local separation of the inner ring from the outer ring, then the bearing can withstand higher loads, but the weight and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload bearing capacityVSAvoidpitch bearing weight

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces a separate limiting structure as a distinct component rather than integrating it into the bearing rings or rollers. This limiting structure comprises a limiting element arranged between the inner ring and outer ring that limits radial movement independently, allowing the bearing components to be optimized for their primary functions without the added weight of oversized rings or preloaded rollers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload bearing capacityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the load-bearing function into separate components (bearing rings, rollers, and a distinct limiting structure), each component can be manufactured using standard processes without requiring oversized dimensions or special preloading procedures, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The limiting structure acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the inner and outer rings to prevent radial separation. This intermediary structure provides the necessary load-bearing capability without requiring modification of the primary bearing components, avoiding the need for custom-manufactured oversized rings or preloaded roller assemblies.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the inner ring moves locally towards the center of the rings under high wind loads, then oscillations and deformations occur, but the rollers and rings experience misalignment and wear

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebearing alignmentVSAvoidoperational reliability under high loads

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The limiting structure provides preliminary anti-action by pre-establishing a mechanical constraint that prevents the inner ring from moving radially towards the center under high wind loads. The limiting element is positioned and configured to engage before misalignment can occur, counteracting the oscillatory forces that would otherwise cause deformation and wear of the bearing components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

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

The solution effectively withstands high radial loads and wind loads by preventing radial movement between the bearing components, reducing wear and maintaining alignment without increasing weight or manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

The limiting structure further comprises an engaging portion engaging with an engaging portion of the second bearing component to limit a radial movement between the bearing components

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical engagement: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

one or more rows of rollers arranged between the inner and the outer ring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRolling friction: Roller

Implementation Method 3

The rolling elements, e.g. balls or rollers, may be arranged between an inner race of the inner ring and an outer race the outer ring for reducing the friction between these rings

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction reduction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11519392B2Roller pitch bearings

Publication Date: 2022.12.06 GENERAL ELECTRIC RENOVABLES ESPANA SL

AI summary

In a first aspect, a roller pitch bearing for a wind turbine is provided. The roller pitch bearing comprises a first bearing component and a second bearing component, the first bearing component being configured to rotate with respect to the second bearing component; wherein one of the first and the second bearing components is configured to be coupled to a wind turbine blade and the other one of the first and the second bearing components is configured to be coupled to a rotor hub of a wind turbine. The roller pitch bearing further a limiting structure attached to the first bearing component, the limiting structure radially extending from the first bearing component towards the second bearing component to limit a radial movement between the bearing components. In further aspect, a rotor for a wind turbine comprising a roller pitch bearing is provided.