Wind Turbine Mast Assembly Using Single-Stage Actuator and Cam Track
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Solution Overview
Problem
Erecting and maintaining masts for small to medium-sized wind turbines and similar equipment is costly due to the need for multi-stage telescopic hydraulic actuators, which are expensive and inefficient for modest elevation requirements, and there is a need for a method to easily lower the mast during inclement weather.
Innovation Solution
A mast assembly with a base and pivotally connected mast, using a single-stage linear actuator and a strut that moves along a cam track with notches to achieve the necessary range of movement, allowing for the use of a single-stage hydraulic cylinder and enabling repositioning of the actuator for efficient erection and lowering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If multi-stage telescopic hydraulic actuators are used to move the mast from horizontal to vertical position, then the mast can be raised to the required elevation, but the cost and complexity of the installation increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The cam track is segmented into multiple notches that provide discrete positional stops for the strut. This segmentation allows the single-stage hydraulic actuator to operate in discrete strokes, achieving the full range of motion from horizontal to vertical position through multiple discrete actions rather than requiring a single long-stroke multi-stage actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The strut acts as an intermediary element between the hydraulic actuator and the mast. It transfers the actuator's force and guides the mast's movement along the cam track, enabling the use of a shorter-stroke single-stage actuator to achieve the same elevation effect that would otherwise require a multi-stage actuator.
2Length of moving object
If multi-stage telescopic hydraulic actuators are used to move the mast, then the required range of movement is achieved, but the cost of installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam track is segmented into multiple notches that provide discrete positional stops for the strut. This segmentation allows the single-stage hydraulic actuator to operate in discrete strokes, achieving the full range of motion from horizontal to vertical position through multiple discrete actions rather than requiring a single long-stroke multi-stage actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive multi-stage telescopic hydraulic actuators with a simpler, less expensive single-stage hydraulic actuator. The cam track with notches provides a mechanical solution that is cheaper to manufacture and install, sacrificing some operational flexibility for significant cost savings.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single-stage hydraulic cylinder is used, then cost is reduced, but the range of movement required from horizontal to vertical position cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The cam track is segmented into multiple notches that provide discrete positional stops for the strut. This segmentation allows the single-stage hydraulic actuator to operate in discrete strokes, achieving the full range of motion from horizontal to vertical position through multiple discrete actions rather than requiring a single long-stroke multi-stage actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic actuator operates in periodic strokes, extending and retracting repeatedly to move the strut along the cam track through different notches. This periodic action accumulates the total range of motion needed to raise the mast from horizontal to vertical position, allowing a single-stage actuator to achieve what would require a multi-stage actuator.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the mast is bolted to the base to maintain stable position, then stability is improved, but the ability to lower the mast for maintenance or weather protection is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the mast and base transitions from a static bolted connection to a dynamic pivotal connection. The mast can pivot between horizontal and vertical positions through the hydraulic actuator and cam track mechanism, providing adaptability for maintenance and weather protection while maintaining stability when positioned vertically through the strut engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of connection rigidity based on operational needs. When the mast needs to be stable, the strut engages with the cam track notch to constrain the pivotal movement. When lowering is needed, the strut disengages from the notch, allowing the mast to pivot back to horizontal position for maintenance or weather protection.
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 solution reduces costs by using a single-stage hydraulic cylinder and allows for efficient and controlled movement of the mast between horizontal and vertical positions, facilitating maintenance and weather protection without the need for expensive multi-stage actuators.
Implementation Method 1
A linear actuator connected between the base and the mast is extensible to move the mast about the pivot
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of abutments are formed on the base in a cam track. The strut similarly moves along a cam track having a pair of notches
Data Source
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AI summary
A mast assembly having a base, and a mast pivotally connected to the base for movement between a horizontal and an upright position. A linear actuator is connected between the base and the mast and is extensible to move mast about the pivot. A strut is selectively positioned between the mast and the base to inhibit pivotal movement toward the horizontal position during lifting of the mast. A plurality of abutments on the base permits selective connection between the actuator and the base. The strut position supports the mast while said actuator is moved between the abutments.