Universal Weighing System for Wind Turbine Blades
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Weighing large, elongate objects such as wind turbine blades is cumbersome and requires significant space, equipment, and expertise, especially when multiple blade types need to be weighed, as existing methods often necessitate dedicated setups for each type and are inefficient in adjusting for different orientations.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a tip load measurement gauge and a root load measurement gauge, with distance sensors on the ground to suspend the object horizontally, allowing for precise alignment and weighing of elongate objects by measuring vertical distances and adjusting their horizontality before recording load readings, enabling the use of the same equipment for different blade types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed weighing rigs are used for each blade type, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal weighing system using load cells positioned at fixed locations on the ground that can weigh multiple blade types without requiring dedicated rigs for each type. The system uses a standardized suspending arrangement with load cells at root and tip positions that accommodates different blade geometries through software configuration rather than physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The weighing system is segmented into independent components: load cells positioned at fixed ground locations, suspending arrangements for each blade end, and distance sensors for orientation measurement. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and configured for different blade types while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Measurement precision
If multiple dedicated weighing rigs are deployed for different blade types, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal weighing facility with load cells at fixed positions can handle multiple blade types sequentially, eliminating the need to move blades between different dedicated rigs. The system maintains measurement precision through standardized load cell positioning and software-based adaptation to different blade geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary orientation measurement using distance sensors before the weighing process, allowing automatic calculation of the correct blade orientation angle. This preliminary action streamlines the setup process and reduces time required for each weighing operation.
3Measurement precision
If fixed weighing jigs are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with electronic sensing and calculation. Distance sensors measure blade orientation, and a control system automatically calculates the required orientation angle and positioning parameters, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment of fixed jigs for each blade type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static fixed jigs to a dynamic measurement and adjustment process. Distance sensors continuously measure blade orientation, and the system dynamically calculates and communicates the required positioning adjustments, making the operation adaptable to different blade types while maintaining precision.
4Measurement precision
If specialised equipment is provided for each product type, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of substance and resource utilization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal weighing system where load cells and suspending arrangements serve multiple blade types, eliminating the need to manufacture and maintain separate specialized equipment for each blade model. This reduces resource consumption while maintaining measurement precision through standardized procedures and software configuration.
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 method allows for flexible and accurate weighing of elongate objects, including wind turbine blades, by ensuring consistent orientation and precise load measurements, reducing the need for multiple setups and improving efficiency in handling various blade designs.
Implementation Method 1
suspending the elongate object from the tip load gauge and from the root load gauge; and recording a tip load and a root load from the load measurement gauges
Implementation Method 2
measuring a first vertical distance between the first distance sensor and a root portion of the elongate object; and measuring a second vertical distance between the second distance sensor and a tip portion of the elongate object
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for weighing an elongate object extending between a root end and a tip end thereof, said method including: providing a respective tip load measurement gauge and root load measurement gauge; and providing a suspending arrangement configured for suspending said elongate object from said tip load measurement gauge and from said root load measurement gauge; and suspending said object in a horizontal orientation; and recording a tip load and a root load from respective said load measurement gauges, said method being additionally characterised by: providing a weighing area; and fixing an inclinometer to said suspended blade and load gauge arrangement; and suspending said elongate object from said tip load gauge and from said root load gauge; and adjusting the horizontality of said elongate object in response to signals from said inclinometer prior to said step of recording said tip load and said root load. Alternatively, an inclinometer may be replaced by placing a first distance sensor at a first location on a ground surface; and placing a second distance sensor at a second location on said ground surface; and suspending said elongate object from said tip load gauge and from said root load gauge such that a said root end thereof is suspended proximate said first distance sensor and a said tip end thereof is suspended proximate said second distance sensor; and measuring a first distance between said first distance sensor and a said root portion of said elongate object and; and measuring a second distance between said second distance sensor and a said tip portion of said elongate object; and then adjusting the horizontality of said elongate object in response to said first and second distance readings prior to said step of recording said tip load and said root load.