Wind Turbine Nacelle Modules for Faster Component Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine maintenance and component servicing in the nacelle are time-consuming, complicated, and require long downtimes due to limited accessibility and handling of heavy, complex components.
Innovation Solution
A modular approach with detachable modules in the nacelle, each with module receiving means and a closable access opening, allowing easy installation and removal through the access opening, and automatic connection systems for power, data, and fluid connections, facilitated by hoisting means like cranes or winches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If components are housed inside the nacelle, then the nacelle can accommodate all necessary wind turbine components, but accessibility for servicing and maintenance becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the nacelle interior into modular bays with standardized module receiving means. Each bay can independently accommodate different modules (transformer, converter, control systems), allowing selective access to specific components without disturbing others. This segmentation enables maintenance personnel to service individual modules while leaving other components undisturbed, resolving the contradiction between comprehensive component accommodation and ease of accessibility.
2Device complexity
If heavy and complicated components are placed in the nacelle, then all components can be integrated in one location, but handling and installation become complicated and require long downtimes
Solution Approach 1:
Complex components are divided into standardized modules that can be independently handled and installed. Each module is designed with standardized interfaces and mounting mechanisms, allowing them to be manipulated as single units rather than complex assemblies. This reduces handling complexity and installation time while maintaining the integrated functionality of all components within the nacelle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal module receiving means that can accommodate different types of modules through standardized interfaces. This universality allows the same handling and installation procedures to be used for various components (transformer, converter, control systems), simplifying the overall process while maintaining the ability to integrate diverse components in the nacelle.
3Ease of operation
If components are located at the back of the nacelle for better accessibility, then some components become easier to access, but accessibility to other components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The nacelle is divided into multiple independent bays arranged in a modular fashion, with each bay providing access to specific modules. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access different components from different locations around the nacelle, rather than all components being concentrated at the back. Each bay can be accessed independently, ensuring that improving accessibility for one component does not compromise access to others.
Data Source
AI summary
A wind turbine is provided, including multiple wind turbine blades fixed to a rotor hub, a nacelle to which the rotor hub is mounted, and a tower carrying the nacelle, wherein wind turbine components are housed in a housing of the nacelle, wherein a mounting device is provided inside the nacelle, the mounting device providing at least two module receivers, wherein at least two first modules each including at least one of the wind turbine components are each detachably mounted in a respective module receiver, and wherein the housing includes, for each module receiver, a closable access opening.