Wind Tower Section Sling Handling for Transport and Upending
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Solution Overview
Problem
The transportation and erection of modern wind turbine towers are challenging due to their large size and weight, requiring complex logistics and multiple tools, including frames that are time-consuming to attach and detach, and are not universally suitable for different diameters.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising two wheeled platforms and a frame that supports a sling, allowing for efficient handling and transport of wind turbine tower sections by spanning the platforms, enabling single-tool operation for both transport and upending, with adjustable sling attachments for varying diameters and the use of hinges for controlled upending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frames are attached to tower sections for transport and storage, then the tower sections can be properly supported and transported, but the process requires significant time for attaching and detaching frames, and frames suitable for certain diameters are not suitable for other diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The tower section supports itself during transport through its own structural features (flanges) rather than requiring external frames to be attached. The transport tool engages with existing features on the tower section, eliminating the need for separate support structures that must be installed and removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport tool is designed to handle tower sections of different diameters through adjustable components. The side portions can be positioned at different distances from each other, and the engagement mechanism can adapt to various flange configurations, making the same tool suitable for multiple tower section sizes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frames are used for different tower section diameters, then each diameter can be properly supported, but the device complexity increases and requires multiple different tools
Solution Approach 1:
The transport tool incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow it to adapt its configuration. The side portions can be repositioned along the longitudinal axis, and the engagement mechanism can adjust to different flange positions, enabling the same tool to handle various tower section diameters dynamically rather than requiring static, diameter-specific frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport tool is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple tower section diameters through its adjustable components. Rather than requiring a separate frame for each diameter, this single tool can be configured to suit different sizes, reducing the total number of tools needed.
3Ease of operation
If traditional cranes and frames are used for upending tower sections, then the tower sections can be positioned vertically, but the process requires removing frames before upending and uses multiple different tools
Solution Approach 1:
The transport tool combines multiple functions into a single device: it serves as both the transport platform and the upending mechanism. The same tool that transports the tower section horizontally remains attached during the upending operation, eliminating the need to remove frames before vertical positioning and reducing the total number of tools required.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport tool is designed to perform multiple operations throughout the entire process from horizontal transport to vertical upending. Rather than requiring separate frames for transport and separate cranes for upending, this universal tool handles both functions, simplifying the overall operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to tools and methods for handling a tower section of a wind turbine tower. A tool comprises a first wheeled platform, a second wheeled platform, and a frame. The frame comprises a first side portion, and a second side portion. The first side portion is attached to the first wheeled platform and is configured to support a first end portion of a sling. The second side portion is attached to the second wheeled platform and is configured to support a second end portion of the sling. The first and second wheeled platforms are separated along a horizontal direction.