Rotor Blade Templates for Precise Airflow Modifier Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenging and time-consuming process of installing airflow modifiers, such as vortex generators, on the exterior surface of wind turbine rotor blades due to the need for precise placement and varying configurations, which affects efficiency and installation time.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize unique geometric identifiers on airflow modifiers matched to corresponding features on an installation template on the rotor blade, ensuring accurate and efficient placement by distinguishing between different configurations and locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple vortex generators with different configurations are installed at predetermined locations, then the aerodynamic performance is improved, but the installation process becomes challenging and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-marking the rotor blade with templates that indicate exact installation locations and orientations for each vortex generator configuration. This pre-prepared guidance system eliminates the need for complex measurements and calculations during installation, allowing workers to simply follow the marked positions and significantly reducing installation time while ensuring optimal aerodynamic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses template copies that replicate the precise geometric patterns and positioning information needed for correct vortex generator installation. These templates serve as simplified copies of the ideal installation layout, enabling workers to accurately transfer the design specifications to the actual blade surface without requiring complex measurement procedures.
2Reliability
If precise placement of airflow modifiers is required, then the performance is enhanced, but the installation process becomes challenging and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces templates as intermediary tools that mediate between the design specifications and the physical installation process. These templates serve as a bridge, translating complex geometric requirements into simple visual guides that workers can follow. The templates include marked positions, orientations, and configuration identifiers that directly indicate where each vortex generator should be placed, eliminating the need for complex measurements while ensuring precise placement for optimal performance.
3Productivity
If different configurations of vortex generators are used, then the aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the complexity of installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing specific visual identifiers and markings on the templates that correspond to each vortex generator configuration type. Each template region contains information tailored to the specific requirements of that location, including the appropriate vortex generator configuration, orientation, and installation method. This localized information reduces overall installation complexity by breaking down the complex task into simple, location-specific instructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reduces installation complexity through preliminary action by pre-organizing and pre-marking all necessary installation information on the templates before the installation process begins. Each template is prepared in advance with configuration codes, position markers, and orientation guides that correspond to different vortex generator types. This pre-prepared information system allows workers to quickly identify and install the correct configurations without having to make complex decisions during installation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system 100 for locating airflow modifiers for installation on wind turbine rotor blades 22 may generally include a plurality of airflow modifiers 102, with each airflow modifier 102 including a base 106 defining an outer profile 110 that differs from the outer profiles of the remainder of the airflow modifiers 102. The system 100 may also include a blade shell 28 defining an exterior surface 30. The base of each airflow modifier may be configured to be coupled to the exterior surface of the blade shell 28. In addition, the system 100 may include an installation template 104 provided on the exterior surface of the blade shell. The installation template 104 may define a different installation location for each of the airflow modifiers. Moreover, the installation template 104 may include a geometric feature at each installation location 140 that at least partially matches the outer profile of the airflow modifier configured to be installed at such installation location.