Wind Turbine Coupling Configuration for Bending Moment Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind generator designs face challenges with high external loads leading to reduced service life and increased costs, particularly affecting the power train components like the multiplier unit, rotor shaft, and generator, as current coupling configurations either transmit unwanted forces to the tower or require strong, complex designs to absorb bending moments.
Innovation Solution
A coupling configuration between the rotor shaft and the multiplier unit comprising a fixed part anchored to the nacelle and a moveable part consisting of the rotor shaft and planet carrier, which transmits torque while using conical bearings to absorb bending moments and axial thrusts, eliminating the need for redundant bearings and additional components like elastic discs or torque arms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the rotor shaft is supported by two bearings directly on the nacelle, then the unwanted forces are transmitted to the tower, but the multiplier unit is subjected to high bending moments requiring strong designs and torque arms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling device as an intermediary component between the rotor shaft and the multiplier unit. This coupling device includes a first bearing that supports the rotor shaft and a second bearing that connects to the multiplier unit, with an elastic element that acts as a mediator to filter and reduce the transmission of bending moments and unwanted forces to the multiplier unit, thereby protecting it while still allowing force transmission to the tower
2Length of stationary object
If the rotor shaft is supported by one bearing on the nacelle and another on the multiplier unit, then the distance between bearings is minimized, but the rotor shaft is still subject to stressful bending moments
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device serves as an intermediary that allows the bearings to be positioned closer together while compensating for the resulting bending moments. The elastic element within the coupling device absorbs and reduces the bending moments transmitted through the rotor shaft, enabling a compact bearing arrangement without compromising the shaft's structural integrity
3Strength
If the rotor shaft is joined to a fixed support connected to the tower by a flange, then bending moments are absorbed by the tower, but additional components and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously serves as a bearing support, a flexible coupling, and a torque transmission element. By integrating these functions into a single device with an elastic element, the patent eliminates the need for separate torque arms, flanges, and other additional components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining bending moment absorption capability
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 configuration reduces the size of the rotor shaft, absorbs vibrations, and protects the multiplier unit from damaging forces, extending the lifespan of turbine components and reducing the risk of damage, while eliminating the need for additional components, thus enhancing the durability and efficiency of the wind turbine.
Implementation Method 1
the rotor shaft is placed onto two conical bearings, one of which is directly supported by the nacelle and the other supported by the coupling
Implementation Method 2
an elastic disc is normally used in the coupling between the rotor shaft and the multiplier unit to absorb the slight misalignments between them
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a wind turbine comprising a rotor shaft (11), a multiplier (3) with at least one planetary-type stage and a generator inside a frame (1). The inventive turbine also comprises a first tubular casing (13) which is solidly connected to the frame (1) and which houses the rotor shaft (11). According to the invention, one end of the rotor shaft is solidly connected to the hub of the rotor, while the other end thereof is solidly connected to the planet carrier (21) of the multiplier unit. The aforementioned first casing includes a bearing (15) for supporting the rotor shaft (11). The invention also comprises a second casing (17) which is equipped with a bearing (19) for supporting the planet holder (21), one end of said second casing being solidly connected to the crown gear of the first planetary stage of the multiplier unit (3) and the other end thereof being solidly connected to the first casing (13) and to the structure of the frame (1).