Prefabricated Electrical Module for Wind Turbine Tower Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional assembly of electrical equipment for wind turbines is time-consuming and challenging, especially in offshore installations, due to the need for step-by-step assembly at elevated heights in rough conditions, and there is a lack of clear guidance on configuring and mounting prefabricated electrical units into offshore wind turbine support structures.
Innovation Solution
A module comprising two or more platforms connected by a connection element, with the first platform having cutouts matching the second mounting support units, allowing for one-step insertion into the wind turbine tower or support structure, reducing assembly time and eliminating the need for on-site assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If electrical components are assembled step-by-step at the foundation before mounting the tower, then the electrical equipment can be installed onshore before tower installation, but the assembly process is time-consuming and requires careful handling during tower lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling the electrical equipment onto a platform structure onshore before the tower is erected. The platform with all electrical components (converter, control devices, battery banks) is prepared in advance, allowing the tower to be mounted first and then the pre-assembled platform to be installed as a complete unit, eliminating the time-consuming step-by-step assembly during tower installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple electrical components (converter, control devices, battery banks) and the mounting platform into a single integrated assembly. This combining of components into one unified structure allows them to be installed together as a single unit rather than individually, reducing assembly time and simplifying the installation process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrical components are mounted in the transition piece at elevated heights, then the support structure can be prepared first, but the assembly work must be carried out at heights of 20-30 meters in rough environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing all electrical component assembly and testing onshore at ground level before tower installation. The platform with electrical equipment is completely prepared, assembled, and tested onshore, then installed as a complete unit after the tower is erected, eliminating the need to work at elevated heights in rough offshore environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the installation process into two distinct phases: onshore preparation of the electrical platform, and offshore installation of the complete assembly. This segmentation allows the complex assembly work to be done in controlled onshore conditions, while the offshore phase is reduced to simple installation of the pre-assembled unit.
3Ease of operation
If the tower segment is pre-mounted with electrical equipment ashore, then the assembly can be done in controlled conditions, but the entire tower segment must be transported fully assembled to the offshore site
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into two separate components: the tower structure and the electrical platform assembly. This segmentation allows the electrical equipment to be assembled on a separate platform that can be transported independently, rather than integrating it into the tower segment itself, simplifying both assembly and transport logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mounting platform as a mediator between the tower and the electrical equipment. This platform serves as a separate carrier for the electrical components, allowing them to be assembled and tested independently onshore, then installed as a complete unit on the tower at the offshore site, avoiding the need to modify the tower segment structure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrical equipment is assembled on a transport vessel offshore, then the tower can be installed first, but the assembly must be done on a moving vessel in rough sea conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by completing all electrical component assembly, connection, and testing onshore at ground level before the tower is installed offshore. This ensures that all assembly work is performed in stable, controlled conditions on a firm surface, eliminating the risks associated with assembling equipment on a moving vessel in rough sea conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a module for accommodating electrical equipment for controlling a wind turbine, the module including a first platform first platform and spaced apart from a but connected with each other by a connection element. The first platform is configured to be attached to the tower or a support structure of the wind turbine by means of a first mounting support. The second platform is configured to be attached to the tower or the supporting structure of the wind turbine by means of a second mounting support, the second mounting support including a plurality of second mounting support units. The first platform is arranged to be located below the second platform after being mounted inside the tower or the supporting structure of the wind turbine. The first platform has a plurality of first cutouts which correspond to the shape and the arrangement of the second mounting support units.