WO2012149935A1 - Ensemble plateforme pour permettre d'accéder à une turbine éolienne - Google Patents

Ensemble plateforme pour permettre d'accéder à une turbine éolienne Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012149935A1
WO2012149935A1 PCT/DK2012/000053 DK2012000053W WO2012149935A1 WO 2012149935 A1 WO2012149935 A1 WO 2012149935A1 DK 2012000053 W DK2012000053 W DK 2012000053W WO 2012149935 A1 WO2012149935 A1 WO 2012149935A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
rotor blade
platform
relation
platform assembly
frame
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/DK2012/000053
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English (en)
Inventor
Paul Teichert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
PP Energy ApS
Original Assignee
PP Energy ApS
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by PP Energy ApS filed Critical PP Energy ApS
Publication of WO2012149935A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012149935A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
    • E04G3/24—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D13/00—Assembly, mounting or commissioning of wind motors; Arrangements specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
    • F03D13/10—Assembly of wind motors; Arrangements for erecting wind motors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D80/00—Details, components or accessories not provided for in groups F03D1/00 - F03D17/00
    • F03D80/50—Maintenance or repair
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70—Wind energy
    • Y02E10/72—Wind turbines with rotation axis in wind direction

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a platform assembly for enabling access to a rotor blade of a wind turbine, said platform assembly being adapted for moving in the longitudinal direction of the rotor blade, and comprising a frame device having a frame structure, means for supporting and guiding the frame device in relation to the rotor blade, said means for supporting and guiding the frame device in relation to the rotor blade being configured for contacting the rotor blade at regions at or near the front edge of the rotor blade, and/or at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade and furthermore having means for lowering and/or lifting the frame device in relation to the rotor blade.
  • the invention further relates to a method for enabling access to a rotor blade of a wind turbine.
  • a prior art hoisting arrangement is described in German utility model DE 296 03 278 U.
  • the wind turbine is brought to a stop with one rotor blade pointing straight downwards, whereafter suspension means are fastened to each of the two other rotor blades near the hub of the rotor.
  • suspension means are fastened to each of the two other rotor blades near the hub of the rotor.
  • a special work platform with a through-going slit at the bottom is fixed to these suspension means so that the rotor blade pointing downwards can be inserted into this slit.
  • the work platform is subsequently being hoisted upwards in a stepwise manner, while the crew manually cleans the surface of the rotor blade, e. g. with one person located on each side of the rotor blade.
  • the platform is hanging freely from the suspension means, which means that the platform is influenced by the wind and may be moved back and forth in windy conditions.
  • the platform may be a problematic and dangerous workplace, and it may be impossible to use the platform even at relatively modest wind speeds.
  • the platform has rollers at the edge of the slit to reduce damage to the rotor blade, such damage may nevertheless occur under certain circumstances.
  • WO 03/048569 A2 describes a method and an apparatus for treatment of a surface of a rotor blade of a windmill, where the apparatus is being placed in such a manner that it is movable in relation to the surface of a rotor blade, and said apparatus is being caused to move depending on a form of treatment determined by means for treatment mounted on, in or next to the apparatus.
  • various forms of treatment of a rotor blade may be carried out, such as for instance washing, finishing, sealing etc.
  • WO 2005/064152 A2 describes a device for enabling access to a structure above ground level by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device comprising a first endless frame structure defining an opening, wherein at least part of the first endless frame structure forms a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an object that is movable in relation to the track portion, such as a gondola, along the track portion.
  • WO 2004/092577 A1 describes a method of servicing the outer components of a wind turbine such as the wind turbine blades and the tower by means of a work platform, said method comprising the steps of: positioning the work platform at the wind turbine tower and connecting the work platform to an upper part of the wind turbine with at least one cable. Further the method comprises the steps of hoisting the work platform with the cable and cable winding means to a position of use, and holding the work platform to the side of the wind turbine tower with holding means.
  • WO 2007/085265 A1 discloses a device for enabling access to a structure above ground or sea level, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine, by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure. The device comprises
  • At least part of the frame structure of this prior art device comprises a track portion that is adapted to guide an object that is movable in relation to the track portion, along the track portion.
  • the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for positioning and guiding said device in relation to the structure, and the means for supporting the device in relation to said structure are configured for facilitating a movement of said device essentially in the longitudinal direction of said structure
  • the material and design of the rotor blades are chosen to have a relative light structure and comprise relative light materials. This gives major challenges for the design of the rotor service devices.
  • an objective of the present invention is to provide a device that exerts the smallest possible pressure and mass effect on the rotor blade.
  • Sea-based wind turbines are often arranged on a platform and service devices and service items are hoisted from or lowered to e.g. a service vessel that is subjected to waves and therefore may be moving up and down.
  • the hoisting device on the service vessel and or service platform does often have a maximum load. It is therefore a further objective to provide a service device that does not exceed this maximum load.
  • the invention relates to a platform assembly for enabling access to a rotor blade of a wind turbine, said platform assembly being adapted for moving in the longitudinal direction of the rotor blade, the platform assembly comprising:
  • a frame device comprising:
  • o means for lowering and/or lifting the frame device in relation to the rotor blade
  • a platform device comprising:
  • platform device is detachably attached to the frame structure and movable in relation to the frame structure and carried by said frame structure.
  • the user may be able to reach or access all parts of the surface of a rotor blade of a wind turbine, since the platform assembly can be moved up and down the rotor blade in a secure manner, guided by the rotor blade.
  • the means for supporting and guiding the platform in relation to the rotor blade are configured for preferably automatically adapting to the size and shape of the rotor blade, which vary considerably along the length, thereby facilitating that the rotor blade can be accessed along virtually its whole length.
  • the platform assembly is supported against parts of the rotor blade, which are suited therefore, i.e.
  • the platform assembly according to the invention may be located in any vertical position along a wind turbine rotor blade, preferably controlled by a person on the platform assembly or at ground level, e. g. by controlling the means for lowering and/or lifting the frame device in relation to the rotor blade. Further, the platform device may be controlled in such a manner that all parts of the rotor blade can be accessed.
  • a large and heavy platform is avoided, since a person using the platform assembly according to the invention may access virtually any desired position in relation to the wind turbine rotor blade. Hereby any necessary work may be performed using a relatively light construction.
  • the safety standard is enhanced, since a person using the platform assembly according to the invention may be secured in a reliable and dependable manner, e.g. secured to a work platform, e.g. a chair, gondola or the like by e.g. a safety line, and since such a person need not move around on a relatively large platform that may e. g. be swerving under the influence of the wind or bouncing against the rotor blade and/or against the wind turbine tower.
  • the platform assembly according to the invention may be transferred to the rotor blade separated in two or more parts.
  • the frame device may be transferred to the rotor blade, and subsequently one or more platform devices may be transferred, e.g. hoisted up and attached to the frame structure.
  • the platform assembly can be transferred to the rotor blade in a relatively uncomplicated manner, without using extensive machinery, while still keeping the platform assembly relatively small in relation to the size of the state of the art wind turbines.
  • said means for supporting the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade are adapted for supporting the platform assembly at or near the front edge of the rotor blade and at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade.
  • the platform assembly can travel along the rotor blade in a manner, in which the surface of the rotor blade is not subjected to any harmful contact, since the platform assembly is designed for contacting the said parts of the rotor blade, which have the necessary rigidity and sturdiness.
  • the platform assembly comprises two or more platform devices, each platform device being, independently of the other, detachably attached to the frame structure and movable in relation to the frame structure and carried by said frame structure.
  • more than one platform device may be attached to the frame structure.
  • the platform device independently attached to the frame structure it will be possible to service the rotor blade at two or more places independently of each other.
  • the platform device and/ or the frame structure comprise means for lowering and/or lifting the platform device in relation to the frame structure.
  • the frame structure may be lowered and lifted to a given position on the rotor blade and the one or more platform devices may be lowered and/ or lifted independently of each other further down the rotor blade.
  • the rotor blade may be accessed without transferring the frame structure down to the rotor blade tip.
  • said means for lifting and/or lowering the platform device in relation to the frame structure comprise hoisting means having power means, said hoisting means being adapted for climbing up and down a cable or said for accumulating the cable, e.g. drum hoisting means.
  • the platform assembly will be able to lift and/or lower itself without power assistance from e. g. a hoist located at the wind turbine tower, at a vehicle or at a vessel.
  • the platform assembly will be able to operate independently, i.e. without concern for power assistance from other devices. This further enhances safe operation since accidents caused by a power failure at a ground vehicle or at a vessel are prevented. Particularly when operation at sea is concerned, e. g.
  • a support vessel may be unstable, e. g. subjected to waves, current, wind etc.
  • a vessel provides the elevation by e.g. hoist (s) located on the vessel is prone to accidents and malfunction, and therefore a device comprising power means as mentioned above is advantageous, not only in general, but especially at sea.
  • the frame device comprises means providing a place to stand or sit for individuals performing inspection, work, repair, surface treatment etc. on the rotor blade above the frame structure.
  • the means providing a place to stand or sit comprise a floor.
  • a surrounding or partly surrounding floor all sides of the rotor blade above the frame structure may be accessed.
  • At least a part of the frame structure comprises a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide the platform device along the track portion.
  • the platform device carried by the track comprises a work platform or a gondola adapted to carry one or more individuals and/or a tool, a robot, an apparatus etc. for performing an operation on the rotor blade in a more or less automated manner.
  • the desired flexibility of the platform assembly is achieved in an expedient manner since the platform device may be moved along the circumference of the rotor blade, whereby the complete surface of the rotor blade can be accessed, e.g. via the track that may be designed in various manners.
  • such a platform device e.g. a work platform or a gondola
  • a platform device may be carried by the track in such a manner that e.g. the gondola is hanging down from the track, whereby a person in the gondola can effectively treat, inspect, repair etc., the surface of the rotor blade essentially below the frame structure of the platform assembly.
  • the frame structure further comprises a hoisting device.
  • the hoisting device comprises a reel, a drive motor, control means and a hoisting line.
  • the platform structure comprises a work platform adapted to carry one or more individuals and/or a tool, a robot, an apparatus etc., for performing an operation on the rotor blade in a more or less automated manner.
  • said means for supporting and guiding the platform device in relation to the rotor blade are configured for being adjusted to the rotor blade during movement of the platform assembly in order to maintain controllable contact at said regions.
  • the supporting and guiding means may comprise a plurality of contact means.
  • at least one of said plurality of contact means may be adapted for contacting the rotor blade at a plurality of points and/or at adjoining points.
  • the contact means can move along the surface of the rotor blade while providing the necessary support against the surface of the rotor blade, since the at least one contact means is adapted for contacting the rotor blade at a plurality of positions and/or at adjoining positions.
  • the rotor blade will be able to withstand the load transferred to it by the contact means, while it will still be possible for the contact means to be displaced along the surface with a minimum of friction.
  • At least one of said contact means may comprise brush support means for contacting the rotor blade.
  • the platform device may be supported against the rotor blade in a manner that can spread the load over a relatively wide area, e.g. due to the plurality of bristles used and/or due to a plurality of brushes being connected together or carried together by a common carrier, the contact means being readily movable in any direction.
  • the brushes may have different lengths of bristles, the lengths of the bristles preferably corresponding to the shape of the rotor blade.
  • the platform assembly may be supported against the rotor blade in a manner that can spread the load over a relatively wide area.
  • brush support means as used in e.g. the conveying field may be used, for example, industrial brushes as supplied by the company August Mink KG, Germany.
  • At least one of said contact means may comprise belt, drum, roller or similar support means for contacting the rotor blade.
  • the platform device may be supported against the rotor blade in a manner that can spread the load over a relatively wide area.
  • said belt, drum, roller or similar support means for contacting the rotor blade may comprise a plurality of parallel belts, chains, drums, rollers or similar means.
  • the device may be supported against the rotor blade in a manner that can spread the load over a relatively wide area.
  • At least one of said contact means may comprise a plurality of balls, rollers or the like.
  • the platform device may be supported against the rotor blade in a manner that can spread the load over a relatively wide area, the contact means being readily movable in any direction.
  • At least one of said contact means may comprise fluid means, e.g. gas, air, for example in the form of pneumatic or air cushioning means, liquids, etc. for facilitating contact to the surface of the rotor blade.
  • fluid means e.g. gas, air, for example in the form of pneumatic or air cushioning means, liquids, etc. for facilitating contact to the surface of the rotor blade.
  • the device may be supported against the rotor blade in a manner that can spread the load over a relatively wide area, the contact means being readily movable in any direction, i.e. omnidirectionally.
  • said means for supporting and guiding the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade may comprise means such as strain gauges, weighing cells, etc. for determining the contact load at said regions of the rotor blade, thereby facilitating detection and/or measurement of unbalance and/or variations in rotor blade dimensions, e.g. width, wind pressure, etc.
  • the load acting upon the surface of the rotor blade by the individual contact means can be determined and that the platform assembly can be adjusted, e.g. the means for supporting the contact means, in such a manner that the load is kept below predetermined limits, that all contact means take part in the support, i.e. no un-loaded contact means, and that the load is distributed evenly or essentially evenly.
  • the platform assembly can be adjusted, e.g. the means for supporting the contact means, in such a manner that the load is kept below predetermined limits, that all contact means take part in the support, i.e. no un-loaded contact means, and that the load is distributed evenly or essentially evenly.
  • said means for supporting and guiding the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade may comprise means for detecting an edge of the rotor blade.
  • said means for detecting an edge of the rotor blade may comprise measuring or detecting means, such as for example optical sensing means, e.g. laser means, photo cells, optical scanning means, etc., radiation means such as X-ray means, sonic detecting means, e.g. ultrasonic means, etc., radar means, etc.
  • optical sensing means e.g. laser means, photo cells, optical scanning means, etc.
  • radiation means such as X-ray means
  • sonic detecting means e.g. ultrasonic means, etc., radar means, etc.
  • the edge or edges of the rotor blade can be detected with a large degree of accuracy and by means of proven components and systems.
  • the platform assembly may comprise control means for controlling said means for supporting and guiding the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade on the basis of input signals provided by said means for determining contact load at said regions of the rotor blade and/or input signals provided by said means for detecting an edge of the rotor blade.
  • the platform assembly can be controlled to move along the rotor blade in an automated manner, whereby the contact means are kept within the desired regions and whereby the means for supporting and guiding the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade are controlled in such a manner that the load acting upon the rotor blade by the contact means is within predetermined limits, whereby also a preferable balance is achieved and whereby a reliable, safe and user-friendly operation of the platform assembly is achieved, e.g. a movement of the platform assembly along the rotor blade, which does not involve jerks, abrupt movements, abrupt stops, etc.
  • said frame structure may have an open configuration or is adapted for being opened, e.g. by having a releasable frame part and/or one or more frame parts that are pivotal.
  • the platform assembly can readily be transferred to a convenient place along the length of the rotor blade in a relatively simple manner, instead of being placed at the rotor blade at the tip of the blade, where the distance to the tower is relatively large, thereby making such an operation relatively complex, when the size of currently used wind turbines is taken into consideration.
  • a frame structure that is configured for being opened it is noted that, when such a frame structure is closed again, it may essentially and functionally be defined as being an endless frame structure and that the track may essentially extend along such an endless frame structure, whereby access can be gained in a 360° configuration.
  • said means for supporting and guiding the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade may comprise a rear guide and support arrangement comprising at least one arm for establishing contact at said regions at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade.
  • said rear guide and support arrangement may be movable in the longitudinal direction of the platform assembly.
  • said rear guide and support arrangement may comprise at least two arms for establishing contact at said regions at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade, wherein said arms may be pivotable in relation to the frame structure, whereby variations in the width of the rear edge of the rotor blade can be accommodated and the position of the frame structure in relation to the rotor blade is adjustable.
  • said means for supporting the platform assembly in relation to said rotor blade may comprise a front guide and support arrangement comprising one or more of said plurality of contact means, said front guide and support arrangement being movable, e.g. comprising one or two pivotable arms or the like for facilitating opening and closing of said frame structure.
  • the contact means, e.g. belts or the like, of said front guide and support arrangement may comprise contact detection means, for example sensors, switching means, etc., for detecting the contact established between the contact means and the rotor blade.
  • said front guide and support arrangement may be adapted for being tilted up or down in order to allow said contact means to adapt to the direction of movement along the front part of the rotor blade.
  • the front contact means can be guided to maintain a desired contact with the rotor blade in spite of the changing width of the rotor blade front, when the device is moving up or down, which may require that the suspension arrangement, e.g. the arms of the front guide and support arrangement are adjusted, for example a small angle up or down.
  • the platform assembly may further comprise one or more fenders on the inside of the frame structure.
  • the fenders are placed to face each other.
  • any direct contact between frame and rotor blade is as gentle as possible.
  • the frame or the fenders may comprise means for determining and or measuring the contact load.
  • measures can be taken to avoid a situation, where the rotor blade becomes squeezed or wedged in the frame.
  • the fenders may have the shape of cylinders or rollers.
  • the platform assembly may further comprise means for supporting the platform assembly in relation to a wind turbine tower, where said means for supporting the platform assembly in relation to the wind turbine tower are configured for displacing the platform assembly in relation to said wind turbine tower, e.g. when the platform assembly is transferred to or removed from the rotor blade of a wind turbine.
  • said means for supporting the platform assembly in relation to the wind turbine tower may be configured for adjusting the position, e.g. the angle of the platform assembly in relation to the wind turbine tower.
  • said means for supporting the platform assembly in relation to the wind turbine tower may comprise means for measuring the support load, for example for each of the tower support arms, e.g. in order to determine load distribution between two or more tower support arms or the like.
  • the platform device may comprise control means for controlling the position of the platform device in relation to the track portion and in relation to the rotor blade.
  • the person or the persons using the platform assembly may control the platform assembly and in particular their own position, e. g. work position in relation to e.g. the surface of a rotor blade, in an optimal manner.
  • the platform device may comprise control means for controlling the lifting/lowering and the positioning in relation to the rotor blade, said control means having the form of a joystick or the like and by means of which any controllable part may be controlled individually and/or simultaneously with other parts.
  • a gyroscopic arrangement may be included in the control system.
  • the control means for controlling the position of the platform device in relation to the track portion and in relation to the rotor blade may comprise a rotation, e.g. 360°, around the axis of the platform device and a rotation, e.g. of 180°, by means of an eccentric suspension in relation to the track portion.
  • the platform device e.g. one or more work platforms, gondolas, tools, robots, apparatuses, etc.
  • said means for lifting and/or lowering the platform device in relation to the rotor blade may comprise hoisting means having power means such as electric motors, electric, electronic, hydraulic and/or pneumatic means and said hoisting means may be adapted for climbing up and down a cable or said hoisting means may be adapted for accumulating the cable, e.g. drum hoisting means.
  • power means such as electric motors, electric, electronic, hydraulic and/or pneumatic means and said hoisting means may be adapted for climbing up and down a cable or said hoisting means may be adapted for accumulating the cable, e.g. drum hoisting means.
  • the platform assembly will be able to lift and/or lower itself without power assistance from e. g. a hoist located at the wind turbine tower, at a vehicle or at a vessel.
  • the platform assembly will be able to operate independently, i.e. without concern for power assistance from other devices.
  • This further enhances safe operation, since accidents caused by a power failure at a ground vehicle or at a vessel are prevented.
  • a support vessel may be unstable, e. g. subjected to waves, current, wind etc.
  • a device comprising power means as mentioned above is advantageous, not only in general, but especially at sea.
  • a device according to the invention will be able to be manually operated, e. g. to be hoisted to the ground and will in general present a safe work tool for all involved, in particular persons occupying the device.
  • the platform assembly may further comprise control means for controlling the lifting and/or lowering means.
  • control means may be controlled from a platform as explained above or from e.g. ground level, for example when an automated operation is taking place.
  • said means for lifting and/or lowering the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade may comprise a plurality of hoisting means, wherein one of said plurality of hoisting means is a master hoisting means and wherein the other/others of said plurality of hoisting means is/are controlled in dependence of the master hoisting means.
  • the platform assembly can be lifted and lowered in such a manner that the platform assembly is maintained in a desired position, e.g. horizontally or at a desired angle while being moved up and down and/or that furthermore the load taken by the individual hoisting means is within predetermined limits.
  • hoisting means may also be synchronized in relation to each other.
  • the platform assembly may comprise measuring means, e.g. weighing cells, strain gauges, etc., for measuring the load on the hoisting means or on each of a plurality of hoisting means.
  • measuring means e.g. weighing cells, strain gauges, etc.
  • the platform assembly may comprise measuring means, e.g. encoders, laser measuring means, etc., for measuring or estimating e.g. the position of the platform assembly, the lifting and lowering distances and/or velocity for each of a plurality of hoisting means.
  • measuring means e.g. encoders, laser measuring means, etc.
  • the hoisting means may be adapted for measuring or calculating the length of the wire, line or cable in order to determine the actual altitude of the device. A calibration of these means may take place, when the platform assembly is placed e.g. at ground level.
  • the platform assembly may further comprise means for automatically adjusting said hoisting means, e.g. automatic levelling means, in order to provide a desired position, e.g. a horizontal position of the frame structure.
  • said hoisting means e.g. automatic levelling means
  • the platform assembly may be adapted to assist individuals and/or facilitate the use of automated equipment such as robots in performing inspection, work, repair, surface treatment etc. on a rotor blade of a wind turbine.
  • said platform assembly may comprise a control system for automatically controlling actuators, hoisting means etc. of the platform assembly on the basis of control input from e.g. gyroscopic sensor(s), pressure sensor(s), optical sensor(s) such as laser sensor(s), strain gauge sensor(s), contact sensor(s) and/or other sensors, detectors and/or measuring means.
  • gyroscopic sensor(s) e.g. gyroscopic sensor(s), pressure sensor(s), optical sensor(s) such as laser sensor(s), strain gauge sensor(s), contact sensor(s) and/or other sensors, detectors and/or measuring means.
  • control system may be configured for limiting the speed, with which the platform assembly is lowered and/or lifted, when the platform assembly is within a predetermined distance from the ground or another base level or within a predetermined distance from e.g. the nacelle.
  • the speed of the platform assembly may preferably be reduced when the platform assembly is approaching the ground, e.g. when the platform assembly is within a few metres to the ground, in order to avoid a hazardous collision with the ground, which will in most cases be a collision between the ground and the gondola(s) and the person(s) situated in the gondola(s).
  • the distance to the ground may be determined or calculated by means of the hoisting means, which as mentioned above may comprise means for measuring or calculating the length of the wire, line or cable in order to determine the actual altitude of the platform assembly.
  • the hoisting means which as mentioned above may comprise means for measuring or calculating the length of the wire, line or cable in order to determine the actual altitude of the platform assembly.
  • special measuring means such as laser distance means located at the platform assembly may be used for this safety related arrangement, whereby the ground level can be determined or detected with high accuracy.
  • said means adapted for supporting the platform assembly in relation to a rotor blade of a wind turbine may be displaceable, e.g. in the lateral direction and/or the longitudinal direction of the platform assembly.
  • the platform assembly can readily travel along the length of the rotor blade, while the support means are automatically adapted to the actual size and/or shape of the rotor blade. Furthermore, the transfer of the platform assembly from the tower to the blade is facilitated in this manner.
  • said front guide and support arrangement may be movable in the longitudinal direction of the platform assembly.
  • the frame device may be configured for supporting against the surface of a wind turbine tower at least at two points in the vertical direction, the means for supporting the platform assembly at least at one of these points being adjustable in relation to the surface of a wind turbine tower.
  • the frame device can be transported along the surface of the tower, even when the surface comprises obstacles or the like, for example in the form of flanges or the like or in the form of various equipment, such as antennas, that is located at the tower.
  • the frame structure may form an essentially elongated structure.
  • the platform assembly can efficiently be used for servicing a wind turbine rotor blade, since the elongated configuration provides the possibility of reaching all parts of the surfaces of the rotor blade, when the platform assembly is moved along the rotor blade.
  • the frame structure has been described as having an essentially U-shaped form, various other forms are possible. It should be mentioned that for example rectangular, triangular, circular, oval forms etc. may be used as well. Further, forms having an L-shape, V-shape, etc. may also be used, and it is noted that forms allowing access to a restricted part only of the rotor blade, for example only one side of the rotor blade, are possible.
  • said one or more platform devices that are guided by said track portion may comprise means for adjusting the position in relation to said track portion, e.g. transversely to the direction of the track portion.
  • the platform device in instances, where a platform device that is guided by the track portion is not positioned optimally in relation to the rotor blade, e.g. at a suitable work distance, the platform device can be displaced until it reaches the desired distance.
  • This may be particularly important, when the track portion has a gap, for example at an open end of the frame structure of the platform assembly, e.g. at the front edge of the rotor blade.
  • the adjustment or displacement of the platform device may be achieved in various manners, for example by having the platform device suspended in an S-shaped suspension, which can be rotated, whereby the adjustment is performed in a circular motion. Further the adjustment can be performed via a linear movement, for example using a linear actuator, a beam structure or the like
  • said means for lifting and/or lowering the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade may be connected to a plurality of lines, wires or the like.
  • Such wires or lines etc. may be connected to any suitable spot on the wind turbine, e.g. the nacelle, the hub, the tower etc., and they may be permanently fixed.
  • the platform assembly can be operated using three such lines or wires, two connected at or near the rear of the platform assembly and one connected to a spot along the length of the frame structure, preferably at the end of the frame facing away from the tower, whereby a triangular suspension is achieved.
  • the platform assembly may be balanced, e.g. by adjusting the position of one or both of these connection spots, for example on the basis of measured parameters and/or gyroscopic input. Further, it is noted that with such an arrangement it is achieved that during the operation of the platform assembly, the lines or wires will not get in contact with the rotor blade.
  • the platform assembly may further comprise means for changing the direction of one or more of the lines or wires, by means of which the device is hoisted, lifted and/or lowered, thereby altering the balance of the platform assembly.
  • the platform assembly may further comprise dampening means for performing a dampening action of the platform assembly in relation to the rotor blade. Since the platform assembly may be used and operated at considerable heights, it is apparent that it will be affected by the environment, e.g. influenced by wind, turbulences, etc. In order to counteract such influences, the device according to any of the embodiments described herein may be equipped with means for effecting a dampening of the undesired influences. Such dampening means may be passive, but preferably or in addition to passive dampening means, active dampening means may be used.
  • Such active dampening means may be controlled by control means, for example integrated with the central control means for the platform assembly, and the control of the active dampening means may take place on the basis of input signals from e.g. sensor means, by means of which for example wind speed, turbulence, vibrations etc., may be measured.
  • control means for example integrated with the central control means for the platform assembly
  • the control of the active dampening means may take place on the basis of input signals from e.g. sensor means, by means of which for example wind speed, turbulence, vibrations etc., may be measured.
  • the mass of the platform assembly including work platform, gondola, personnel, tools etc., may be used to dampen the movements of the structure itself.
  • said platform assembly may be adapted for being permanently fixed at the wind turbine, e.g. at a nacelle of said wind turbine, and for being operated by lowering and transferring the device to a rotor blade.
  • the invention furthermore relates to method for enabling access to a rotor blade of a wind turbine, whereby a frame device that comprises a frame structure, means for supporting and guiding the frame device in relation to said rotor blade, and means for lowering and/or lifting the frame device in relation to the rotor blade, is placed near said wind turbine essentially at ground or sea level,
  • the rotor blade is contacted by support means at or near the edge of the rotor blade, said support means being movable in relation to said frame device,
  • - the frame device is lifted and/or lowered in relation to the rotor blade while supported and guided by said support means at regions at or near the front edge of the rotor blade and/or at or near the rear edge of the rotor blade, -one or more platform devices comprising a platform structure and means for supporting and guiding the platform device in relation to the rotor blade is/are hoisted and attached to the frame structure, the frame structure and the attached platform device together being called a platform assembly.
  • the platform assembly is lowered in relation to the rotor blade to a given diameter of the rotor blade.
  • access to the rotor blade below the given diameter of the rotor blade is performed by lowering and/or lifting the one or more platform devices in relation to the frame device.
  • the frame structure may be lowered and lifted to a given position on the rotor blade and the one or more platform devices may be lowered and or lifted independently of each other further down the rotor blade.
  • the rotor blade may be accessed without transferring the frame structure down to the rotor blade tip.
  • the frame device is supported in relation to the tower of the wind turbine while being lifted.
  • the device is lifted and or lowered in a stable and controlled manner.
  • the step of establishing contact to the rotor blade is performed at a level at or near "chord max"-level, and/or at a level where a minimum distance, e.g. a safe and suitable distance, between the front edge of the rotor blade and the tower exists.
  • the transfer of the device can be effected in a particularly simple manner and in a manner that minimises the size of the wind turbine.
  • the wind turbine is initially arranged with an essentially vertical rotor blade and with the rear edge of the rotor blade near the tower. E.g. placed in the mode, which may be referred to as the natural emergency mode of the wind turbine.
  • the device expediently contacting the edge as soon as possible when being lifted upwards, whereby increased stability is achieved.
  • Figs. 1 -7 show a platform assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention and a method for enabling access to a rotor blade of a wind turbine.
  • Figs 1-7 illustrate the platform assembly in a schematic matter.
  • the Figs. 1-7 disclose a wind turbine tower (1) upon which a nacelle (2) is mounted. From the nacelle (2) extends a not visible main shaft on which a hub (3) carrying a rotor blade (4) is mounted.
  • Fig. 1 shows schematically, how the frame device (5) is hoisted by the hoisting lines (6). At the ground two platform devices (7) are waiting to be hoisted.
  • Fig. 2 is a schematic view of a sea-based wind turbine.
  • the wind turbine tower is positioned on a sea-based platform (8).
  • a hoisting device (9) is placed on the platform; the platform has a maximum load of 1000 kg.
  • Two platform devices (7) have been hoisted onto the sea-based platform (8) from a vessel (10).
  • the frame structure (5) has reached a suitable level and the rotor blade (4) is being transferred to the rotor blade; not to the tip of the rotor blade, but to a level, where the distance from the tower to the rotor blade is convenient.
  • Fig 3 schematically shows a situation where the frame device is positioned on the rotor blade and where not disclosed means for supporting and guiding the frame in relation to the rotor blade are configured for contacting the rotor blade at regions near the front and rear edges of the rotor blade.
  • the frame structure is now ready for being connected to the two platform devices placed on the ground.
  • Fig 4. schematically shows a situation where an individual (11) is placed on the frame device for performing inspection, work, repair, surface treatment etc. on the rotor blade above the frame structure.
  • a platform device (7) with an individual (12) is lifted up to the frame device (5), a hoisting line connecting the frame device (5) to a platform device (7).
  • Fig 5. is a schematic view of a platform assembly for enabling access to a rotor blade of a wind turbine, where the frame device and two platform devices are connected and where the platform devices are attached to the frame structure and the means for supporting and guiding the frame device in relation to the rotor blade are contacting the rotor blade near the front and rear edge of the rotor blade.
  • One of the platform devices is contacting the rotor blade near the front edge and the other platform device is contacting the rear edge of the rotor blade.
  • Fig 6. discloses the situation from Fig. 5, where the two platforms are lowered to two different positions of the rotor blade.
  • Fig. 7 discloses the situation from Figs. 5 and 6, where both the frame device and the two platform devices are lowered the rotor blade.

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  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Wind Motors (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un ensemble plateforme destinée à permettre d'accéder à une pale de rotor d'une turbine éolienne, l'ensemble plateforme comprenant : un dispositif de châssis ayant des moyens servant à supporter à guider le dispositif de châssis par rapport à la pale de rotor, lesdits moyens étant conçus pour entrer en contact avec la pale de rotor dans des régions situées au droit ou à proximité du bord d'attaque de la pale de rotor et/ou au droit ou à proximité du bord de fuite de la pale de rotor, et des moyens servant à abaisser et/ou à élever le dispositif de châssis par rapport à la pale de rotor, un dispositif de plateforme possédant des moyens servant à supporter et guider le dispositif de plateforme par rapport à la pale de rotor, lesdits moyens étant conçus pour entrer en contact avec la pale de rotor dans des régions situées au droit ou à proximité du bord d'attaque de la pale de rotor et/ou au droit ou à proximité du bord de fuite de la pale de rotor. Le dispositif de plateforme est fixé de façon amovible à la structure de châssis, il peut se déplacer par rapport à la structure de châssis et il est porté par ladite structure de châssis.
PCT/DK2012/000053 2011-05-04 2012-04-24 Ensemble plateforme pour permettre d'accéder à une turbine éolienne Ceased WO2012149935A1 (fr)

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DKPA201100339 2011-05-04
DKPA201100339 2011-05-04

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2013102460A1 (fr) * 2012-01-02 2013-07-11 Sidis Aps Système de suspension pour turbines éoliennes
WO2019086087A1 (fr) * 2017-11-03 2019-05-09 Mhi Vestas Offshore Wind A/S Procédé permettant d'effectuer une maintenance sur une partie d'éolienne

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DE4339638A1 (de) 1993-11-20 1995-05-24 Jan Luttuschka Befahranlage für Außenwände von Bauwerken mit annähernd kreisförmigem, elliptischem bzw. vieleckigem Querschnitt aus Stahl, Stahlbeton oder anderen festen Stoffen, insbesondere für Windkraftanlagen mit nicht vertikaler Drehachse des Rotors
DE29603278U1 (de) 1996-02-23 1996-04-25 Beyer, Reinhard, 23769 Bannesdorf Vorrichtung zur Reinigung von Rotorblättern von Windkraftanlagen
DE19909698A1 (de) 1998-09-22 2000-04-13 Siebert Antonius J Vorrichtung zur Durchführung von Reparatur- und Serviceleistungen insbesondere an Rotorblättern von Windkraftanlagen
WO2003048569A2 (fr) 2001-12-06 2003-06-12 Pp Energy Aps Procede et appareil de traitement d'ailette de rotor d'eolienne
WO2004092577A1 (fr) 2003-04-15 2004-10-28 Vestas Wind Systems A/S Procede d'entretien des elements exterieurs d'une eolienne tels que les pales et le pylone a l'aide d'une plate-forme de travail, et plate-forme de travail
WO2005064152A2 (fr) 2003-12-30 2005-07-14 Pp Energy Aps Dispositif permettant l'acces a une structure surplombant le niveau du sol
WO2007085265A1 (fr) 2006-01-27 2007-08-02 Pp Energy Aps Dispositif donnant acces a une structure se trouvant au-dessus du niveau du sol
WO2009155917A2 (fr) * 2008-06-26 2009-12-30 Pp Energy Aps Dispositif pour permettre l'accès à une éolienne
WO2010112032A1 (fr) * 2009-04-02 2010-10-07 Lm Glasfiber A/S Plateforme de travail

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3220509A (en) * 1963-11-20 1965-11-30 Spider Staging Inc Special purpose suspended staging
US4424884A (en) * 1980-11-24 1984-01-10 Smith Jr Charles P Emergency rescue system
DE4339638A1 (de) 1993-11-20 1995-05-24 Jan Luttuschka Befahranlage für Außenwände von Bauwerken mit annähernd kreisförmigem, elliptischem bzw. vieleckigem Querschnitt aus Stahl, Stahlbeton oder anderen festen Stoffen, insbesondere für Windkraftanlagen mit nicht vertikaler Drehachse des Rotors
DE29603278U1 (de) 1996-02-23 1996-04-25 Beyer, Reinhard, 23769 Bannesdorf Vorrichtung zur Reinigung von Rotorblättern von Windkraftanlagen
DE19909698A1 (de) 1998-09-22 2000-04-13 Siebert Antonius J Vorrichtung zur Durchführung von Reparatur- und Serviceleistungen insbesondere an Rotorblättern von Windkraftanlagen
WO2003048569A2 (fr) 2001-12-06 2003-06-12 Pp Energy Aps Procede et appareil de traitement d'ailette de rotor d'eolienne
WO2004092577A1 (fr) 2003-04-15 2004-10-28 Vestas Wind Systems A/S Procede d'entretien des elements exterieurs d'une eolienne tels que les pales et le pylone a l'aide d'une plate-forme de travail, et plate-forme de travail
WO2005064152A2 (fr) 2003-12-30 2005-07-14 Pp Energy Aps Dispositif permettant l'acces a une structure surplombant le niveau du sol
WO2007085265A1 (fr) 2006-01-27 2007-08-02 Pp Energy Aps Dispositif donnant acces a une structure se trouvant au-dessus du niveau du sol
WO2009155917A2 (fr) * 2008-06-26 2009-12-30 Pp Energy Aps Dispositif pour permettre l'accès à une éolienne
WO2010112032A1 (fr) * 2009-04-02 2010-10-07 Lm Glasfiber A/S Plateforme de travail

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2013102460A1 (fr) * 2012-01-02 2013-07-11 Sidis Aps Système de suspension pour turbines éoliennes
WO2019086087A1 (fr) * 2017-11-03 2019-05-09 Mhi Vestas Offshore Wind A/S Procédé permettant d'effectuer une maintenance sur une partie d'éolienne
CN111279073A (zh) * 2017-11-03 2020-06-12 菱重维斯塔斯海上风力有限公司 对风力涡轮机部件执行维护的方法
CN111279073B (zh) * 2017-11-03 2022-03-11 维斯塔斯风力系统有限公司 对风力涡轮机部件执行维护的方法
US11549494B2 (en) 2017-11-03 2023-01-10 Vestas Wind Systems A/S Method for performing maintenance on a wind turbine part

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