Wind Turbine Tower Securing Assembly with Curved Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for maintaining and constructing wind turbines face challenges due to the instability and high costs associated with large, heavy cranes used for lifting and assembling components, which are sensitive to wind conditions and require extensive transportation and assembly time, leading to prolonged stoppages and increased expenses.
Innovation Solution
A securing assembly that includes a base part with a tower holding part, arms with rope sliding elements, and a tightening device to securely attach an elongated support tower to a wind turbine tower, providing enhanced stability through increased contact force and adaptability to tower curvature, along with a support beam for additional support and movement mechanisms for flexible positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If large, heavy cranes are used for lifting and assembling wind turbine components, then the lifting capacity and stability are improved, but the sensitivity to wind conditions increases and operational reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the lifting system into multiple independent lifting points and smaller lifting units distributed around the tower, rather than using a single large crane. This segmentation allows each unit to operate independently with lower wind sensitivity while collectively providing the necessary lifting capacity for heavy components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal crane-based lifting to vertical tower-integrated lifting by incorporating lifting mechanisms directly into the tower structure at multiple heights. This dimensional change enables lifting operations to occur along the vertical axis of the tower, reducing exposure to horizontal wind forces that affect traditional cranes.
2Strength
If large, heavy cranes are used for wind turbine assembly, then the lifting capacity is improved, but the transportation and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tower structure is designed to serve dual functions: as the structural support for the wind turbine and as an integrated lifting system. The same tower that supports the generator and blades also contains embedded lifting mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate crane infrastructure and reducing transportation and assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wind turbine tower performs self-lifting operations by incorporating lifting mechanisms within its own structure, allowing it to lift and position components during assembly and maintenance without requiring external crane assistance. This self-service capability simplifies the overall system by eliminating dependent external equipment.
3Strength
If large, heavy cranes are used for component installation, then the lifting capacity is improved, but the production stoppage time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tower is pre-equipped with multiple lifting points and integrated lifting mechanisms during manufacturing, allowing maintenance and assembly operations to begin immediately without requiring external crane setup and positioning. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming setup procedures and enables faster response to maintenance needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system incorporates movable and adjustable components that can be dynamically repositioned along the tower structure, allowing rapid adaptation to different lifting requirements and faster completion of maintenance tasks compared to fixed, heavy crane systems that require repositioning.
4Device complexity
If traditional securing methods are used for the support tower, then the simplicity is maintained, but the stability and security of the high support tower deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system applies different stabilization mechanisms at different locations along the tower - with clamping assemblies and guy wires positioned at specific heights and angles where they provide maximum structural benefit. This localized approach optimizes stability without requiring uniform complexity throughout the entire securing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The guy wires and clamping assemblies are arranged in curved or radial patterns around the tower, distributing stabilization forces along the tower's circumference rather than applying single-point loads. This geometric arrangement enhances stability by creating a more uniform force distribution that better resists lateral loads from wind and operational forces.
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 securing assembly ensures the stability and security of the elongated support tower, allowing for efficient maintenance and construction by reducing the reliance on large cranes, minimizing downtime, and optimizing the distribution of forces on the wind turbine tower, thus enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
each comprising at least one rope sliding element, arranged to slidably hold the rope, arranged along the plate for guiding the rope around the wind turbine tower
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a securing assembly (1) for securing an elongated support tower (2) to a wind turbine tower (3). The securing assembly (1) comprises a base part (1a) including: a tower holding part (4), a fixed part (5), two arms (6), a plate (6c) arranged at the outer part of each of the two arms (6), the plates (6c) can adapt to the curvature of the wind turbine tower (3) and each comprising at least one rope sliding element (9). The securing assembly (1) comprises a rope (8), being arranged via the rope sliding elements (9), and a rope tightening device (11) arranged on the base part (1a). The rope (8) presses the plates (6c) against the wind turbine tower (3) when tightened.