Removable Stator Mounting Modules for Wind Turbine Vibration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine generators face challenges in maintaining optimal stator positioning and vibration control due to welded joints, which lead to structural vibrations and maintenance difficulties, especially when dealing with thermal expansion and torsional resonances.
Innovation Solution
A stator mounting system comprising removable and adjustable modules that allow for in-situ adjustment and replacement of stator mounting modules, featuring resilient and laminated construction for improved mechanical and electrical performance, enabling precise positioning and vibration control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welded joints are used to mount the stator to the support frame, then the stator is securely supported and positioned, but structure-borne vibrations are transmitted to the housing causing noise and the stator torsional stiffness cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The stator mounting system is divided into multiple independent mounting modules (e.g., four modules at different locations around the stator). Each module can be independently adjusted or replaced, allowing the stator to be securely supported while enabling local adjustments to control vibrations and noise without affecting the entire structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If welded joints are used to mount the stator, then the stator is firmly fixed, but the stator torsional stiffness cannot be adjusted to control torsional resonances
Solution Approach 1:
The stator mounting modules are designed to be adjustable rather than fixed. The mounting modules can be positioned at different locations and orientations, and their mounting characteristics can be modified to adjust the stator's torsional stiffness. This dynamic adjustability allows optimization of torsional resonance control while maintaining stable positioning.
3Strength
If the generator is assembled with welded stator mounting, then the structure is rigid and stable, but maintenance requires complete disassembly and causes extended turbine downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The stator mounting system is segmented into independent removable modules rather than a fixed welded structure. This allows individual modules to be accessed, removed, or replaced without disassembling the entire generator. The modular design maintains structural rigidity when assembled while enabling quick maintenance access to the stator and its mounting components.
4Strength
If welded joints are used, then the stator is securely mounted, but thermal expansion from high currents creates problems due to lack of radial compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting modules are designed with adjustable mounting characteristics that can accommodate thermal expansion. The modules can be positioned to provide appropriate radial compliance while maintaining secure mounting. This allows the stator to expand radially due to thermal effects from high currents without creating problematic stresses, while still maintaining secure attachment to the support frame.
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
This solution allows for quick maintenance, improved vibration control, and reduced noise, enabling optimal stator positioning and performance without the need for complex adjustments or disassembly, thus minimizing downtime and enhancing the overall efficiency of wind turbines.
Implementation Method 1
Each stator mounting module may comprise a resilient member and a mounting member
Data Source
AI summary
In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a generator for a wind turbine. The generator includes a stator which defines a central axis of the generator, the stator being mounted within a frame by a stator mounting system. The stator mounting system includes a plurality of stator mounting modules, each stator mounting module being removably attached to the stator and removably attached to the frame. The stator mounting system is arranged so that one or more of the stator mounting modules can be replaced or repositioned with the stator mounted in situ within the frame.