Wind Turbine Component Alignment Tool Kit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for repositioning misaligned components in wind turbines, connected by bolted joints, are costly and cumbersome, often requiring external cranes for alignment and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising alignment tool kits and compression tool kits, which include alignment bolts, fastening bolts, expandable bushes, and nuts, allows for precise alignment and repositioning of wind turbine components without external cranes, using modular kits that can be installed within the bolted joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If external cranes are used to lift and move components for alignment, then alignment can be achieved, but the process becomes very cost-intensive and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment tools and positioning devices as intermediaries between the misaligned components. These tools include alignment bolts, positioning blocks, and measurement devices that facilitate precise alignment without requiring external cranes. The intermediary tools bridge the gap between components, enabling alignment through controlled mechanical intervention rather than heavy lifting equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment process is segmented into multiple steps using specialized tool kits. Each tool kit contains specific devices for particular alignment tasks (e.g., horizontal alignment, vertical alignment, bolt positioning). This segmentation allows the complex alignment task to be broken down into manageable operations using simple, targeted tools rather than requiring a single complex crane system.
2Ease of operation
If external cranes are used for alignment operations, then component repositioning is possible, but the operation becomes cumbersome and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary positioning features built into the tool kits, such as pre-configured alignment blocks, preset bolt positions, and pre-marked reference points. These preliminary preparations enable operators to quickly establish initial alignment without time-consuming manual measurements and adjustments, significantly reducing the overall alignment time while simplifying the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical system of external cranes with simpler mechanical tools and devices. Instead of using heavy lifting equipment, the solution employs alignment bolts, positioning blocks, and lever-based adjustment mechanisms that are easier to operate and require less time to deploy and remove.
3Reliability
If misalignment causes wearing between component surfaces, then cleaning operations are needed, but external cranes are required to assist these operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces specialized cleaning tools and surface restoration devices as intermediaries for maintenance operations. These tools include surface cleaning brushes, polishing devices, and inspection instruments that can be applied directly to the component surfaces without requiring external cranes. The intermediary tools enable precise cleaning and surface restoration in situ.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service maintenance through tool kits that can be easily deployed and operated by maintenance personnel without heavy equipment assistance. The cleaning and surface restoration tools are designed to be manually operated or powered by portable means, allowing the wind turbine components to be maintained independently without requiring external crane support for equipment positioning and operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for repositioning two components of a wind turbine with respect to each other, the two components being connected to each other by means of a bolted joint and the system includes at least one alignment tool kit. Further provided is a bolted joint of two components of a wind turbine.