Wind Generator Shroud Assembly for Stator Protection and Airflow Diversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind generators in harsh environments face increased downtime and maintenance costs due to exposure to salt, sand, snow, and rain, which can damage the stator and rotor, especially in remote locations with difficult access.
Innovation Solution
A shroud assembly with radial and axial extensions, comprising flange sections and end sections, made of materials like glass-reinforced plastic, that protects the stator and rotor by diverting and controlling airflow, reducing temperature, and minimizing contact with environmental particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the wind generator is placed in remote areas with strong wind, then the energy generation capacity is improved, but the exposure to harsh environment (salt, sand, snow, rain) increases, leading to higher downtime and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
A shroud assembly is introduced as an intermediary protective structure between the harsh environment and the stator. The shroud includes a first flange section positioned between the stator and blade plane, and a second flange section positioned between the stator and nacelle wall, creating a protective barrier that diverts air flow and prevents direct exposure of the stator to environmental particles while maintaining the wind generator's operational capacity in remote locations
2Reliability
If repair work is carried out in the nacelle, then the generator can be maintained, but the downtime increases and costs increase, especially in difficult-to-access locations
Solution Approach 1:
The shroud assembly is installed beforehand as a preventive protective measure. By positioning the first flange section between the stator and blade plane, and the second flange section between the stator and nacelle wall, the system prevents environmental damage before it occurs, eliminating the need for frequent repairs and reducing both downtime and maintenance costs, especially in remote locations where access is difficult
3Adaptability or versatility
If the stator is exposed to environmental particles (salt, sand, snow, rain), then the generator operates in harsh conditions, but the lifespan of the generator is reduced and unscheduled repairs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shroud assembly serves as a protective intermediary that allows the wind generator to operate in harsh environments without exposing the stator to damaging particles. The first flange section and second flange section create a protective barrier that diverts air flow and prevents direct contact between environmental particles and the stator, thereby maintaining generator lifespan and reducing unscheduled repairs while preserving environmental adaptability
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 shroud assembly reduces maintenance needs, extends generator lifespan, and minimizes unscheduled repairs by providing comprehensive protection and efficient airflow management, thus enhancing operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the shroud assembly (also named 'shroud' for short) changes the air flow inside the nacelle when the air flow is flowing substantially in an axial direction in the nacelle
Implementation Method 2
the shroud provides protection for the stator from the surrounding environment, i.e. protection from both rain and moist as well as particles in the air
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a shroud assembly for a nacelle of a wind generator, the shroud assembly having a radial extension defined to be perpendicular to the centre axle of the wings of the wind generator and an axial extension defined to be parallel to the centre axis of the wind generator, the shroud assembly comprising a number of shroud elements, each shroud element comprising a first flange section and a second flange section, the first flange section being connected to the second flange section via a common section, and a first end section and a second end section, wherein the first flange section and the second flange section are arranged in an angle via the common section, and wherein the first flange section is arranged between the stator and a blade plane defined by the wings of the wind generator. The invention also relates to use of the shroud assembly for diverting the air flow and/or protecting the stator in the nacelle of a wind generator.