Wind Turbine Tower Segment Support Element Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support systems for wind turbine tower segments are unstable and prone to damage during stacking and storage, requiring gradual wedging and being susceptible to movement-induced shifts.
Innovation Solution
A support element with a main body featuring an upper surface with central and lateral zones, equipped with protective elements that securely support segments without the need for gradual wedging, ensuring stability and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional support systems with wedges are used to support segments, then the segments can be centred and balanced, but the system becomes unstable and prone to movement-induced shifts that can damage segments
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is divided into distinct functional zones: a central zone for vertical support and two lateral zones for horizontal stabilization. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, providing both centring and anti-displacement capabilities simultaneously without the instability of traditional wedge systems
Solution Approach 2:
The support element acts as an intermediary device between the horizontal surface and the segment. It mediates the support function by providing a structured interface with central and lateral zones that collectively prevent both displacement and damage, eliminating the need for gradual wedging operations
2Quantity of substance
If more segments are stacked to maximize storage density, then space requirements are reduced, but the height increases which may cause interferences between segments
Solution Approach 1:
The support element features different zone configurations optimized for specific functions: the central zone provides vertical support with appropriate height, while the lateral zones extend horizontally to provide stabilization. This local differentiation allows compact vertical stacking while maintaining horizontal stability, enabling maximum segment density without interference
3Ease of operation
If gradual wedging is used to centre and balance segments, then the segments can be properly positioned, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is pre-configured with central and lateral zones designed to automatically centre and stabilize segments upon placement. This preliminary structural arrangement eliminates the need for gradual, time-consuming wedging operations, allowing segments to be centred and balanced instantly through simple placement
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a support element for a segment of wind turbine towers which avoids damage of the segment while the segment is supported or stacked, a support system comprising at least a support element which provides a competitive advantage that allows to reduce the space necessary for storing the segments or to allow more segments to be stored in the same space, and a method of supporting at least a segment of wind turbine towers.