Wind Turbine Tower Assembly Platform with Radial Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current assembly and maintenance methods for wind turbine towers are costly, logistically challenging, and unsafe due to the need for multiple cranes, large assembly areas, and complex access systems, especially with increasing tower heights and diameters.
Innovation Solution
A device with a radially movable and pivotable working platform that adapts to different tower diameters, eliminating the need for additional lifts and access systems, featuring a base platform with arcuate guiding elements and telescopic or scissor-lattice construction for easy adjustment, along with independent electric lifting drives and safety railings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple cranes are used for assembly, then assembly capability is improved, but operating costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple cranes into a single integrated assembly device that operates from within the tower. The device integrates lifting, positioning, and assembly functions that would otherwise require separate crane systems, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining assembly capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly device is designed with multi-functionality to perform various assembly operations at different tower sections. It can lift, position, and secure tower sections while also providing platform functions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized cranes and reducing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If pre-assembly is performed on the ground, then assembly efficiency is improved, but land area requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamically adjustable platform that can be positioned at different heights within the tower during assembly. This eliminates the need for fixed ground-based pre-assembly areas, as sections can be assembled in-place at the required elevation, reducing land area requirements while maintaining assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions the assembly process from a two-dimensional ground-based operation to a three-dimensional in-tower operation. By utilizing the vertical dimension within the tower structure, the system eliminates the need for extensive horizontal land area while preserving assembly efficiency.
3Power
If tower height and diameter are increased, then wind energy utilization is improved, but assembly and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary assembly device that operates from within the tower to bridge the gap between ground level and upper tower sections. This intermediary system provides controlled access and lifting capabilities, making assembly and maintenance of tall towers safer and easier compared to external crane operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly device is designed to be self-contained and self-supported within the tower structure. It carries its own platform, lifting mechanism, and safety systems, enabling it to perform assembly and maintenance operations autonomously without requiring external support equipment, thereby reducing operational difficulty.
4Reliability
If access systems are installed for operation, then operational safety is improved, but device complexity and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the access system functions with the assembly device itself. The platform and safety systems required for operation are integrated into the assembly device structure, eliminating the need for separate access system installations and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining operational safety.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a vertically movable work platform for use as an assembly, maintenance, service, rescue, and/or transport platform inside a tower, in particular a steel tower of a wind turbine, with a base platform having a cutout for a vertical support structure, wherein the base platform is circular and has at least one arcuate guide and/or bearing element on its circumference. The invention also relates to a steel tower for a wind turbine with a vertically movable work platform.