Wind Turbine Drivetrain Handling Tool with Modular Drive Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for handling and moving drivetrain components in horizontal axis wind turbines are not flexible or easy to use, lacking effective control and efficiency during service or installation operations.
Innovation Solution
A tool with multiple connection points for drive units to the nacelle structure, allowing for selective connection and movement of drivetrain components parallel to the rotor axis, utilizing linear actuators and carriers with position adjustment devices for precise control and load management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed connection system is used for moving drivetrain components, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability and control flexibility are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into modular components: a carrier with multiple connection points, separate drive units, and an elongated support unit. This segmentation allows the system to be configured flexibly for different components and tasks while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool design provides multi-functionality through the carrier that can be connected to different drivetrain components (gearbox, generator, etc.) and the drive units that can be selectively positioned at multiple connection points along the support unit, enabling a single tool to handle various moving tasks within the nacelle.
2Ease of operation
If multiple connection points are provided for drive units, then the control flexibility improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic positioning capability where drive units can be selectively connected at different locations along the elongated support unit. This dynamic reconfigurability allows optimal control flexibility for each specific task while the modular design prevents excessive complexity by using standardized connection interfaces.
3Reliability
If a robust tool structure is used for handling large components, then the strength and reliability improve, but the ease of operation and flexibility decrease
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the tool into a carrier, drive units, and support unit with multiple connection points, the system achieves robustness through proper force distribution while maintaining ease of operation through modular assembly and selective configuration for different tasks.
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 tool provides a robust, flexible, and easy-to-use solution for handling large drivetrain components, allowing for precise control and efficient movement, reducing load on connections and facilitating easy manipulation of bolts and flange holes.
Implementation Method 1
the drive unit is a linear actuator, e.g., in the form of a hydraulic or electric linear actuator, or a screw type actuator
Implementation Method 2
the drive unit is a linear actuator, e.g., in the form of a hydraulic or electric linear actuator, or a screw type actuator
Data Source
AI summary
The invention includes a tool for moving a drivetrain component in a nacelle of a horizontal axis wind turbine, the nacelle comprising a nacelle structure, the component being connected, in operation of the wind turbine, to a rotor of the wind turbine, the tool comprising at least one carrier adapted to be connected to the component, to carry the weight of the component, and to be supported by the nacelle structure, and at least one drive unit adapted to be connected to the nacelle structure and to the carrier, so as to provide a force between the nacelle structure and the carrier, so as to drive the carrier with the component in a direction parallel to the rotational axis of the rotor.