阅读说明：本技术 用于稳定风力涡轮的系统和方法 (System and method for stabilizing a wind turbine ) 是由 方飙 S·曼特拉瓦迪 N·K·克里斯特瓦 I·保拉 N·A·特恩奎斯特 T·D·安德森 于 2018-12-07 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种风力涡轮系统包括风力涡轮发电机,风力涡轮发电机具有转子和安装在塔架结构的顶上的机舱。塔架结构安装到基础结构,并且包括多个塔架区段,塔架区段各自包括一个或多个塔架区段凸缘。风力涡轮系统进一步包括一个或多个连接器环。一个或多个连接器环中的各个设置成靠近两个相邻塔架区段凸缘,并且包括多个垫眼适配器,垫眼适配器各自具有形成在其中的开口。风力涡轮系统进一步包括多根张紧线缆,其中各根张紧线缆在第一端部处联接到垫眼适配器中的一个并且在第二端部处联接到基础结构。基于场地条件,多根张紧线缆在不同或多个连接器环高度处联接到塔架结构,以产生期望的横向稳定性。(A wind turbine system includes a wind turbine generator having a rotor and a nacelle mounted atop a tower structure. The tower structure is mounted to the foundation structure and includes a plurality of tower sections that each include one or more tower section flanges. The wind turbine system further includes one or more connector rings. Each of the one or more connector rings is disposed proximate two adjacent tower section flanges and includes a plurality of cushion eye adapters each having an opening formed therein. The wind turbine system further includes a plurality of tension cables, wherein each tension cable is coupled to one of the grommet adapters at a first end and to the foundation structure at a second end. Based on site conditions, a plurality of tension cables are coupled to the tower structure at different or multiple connector ring heights to create a desired lateral stability.)

1. A wind turbine system, comprising:

a wind turbine generator comprising a tower structure mounted on a foundation structure, the tower structure comprising a plurality of tower sections, each of the plurality of tower sections comprising one or more tower section flanges;

one or more connector rings, each of the one or more connector rings disposed proximate to two adjacent tower section flanges, each of the one or more connector rings comprising a plurality of grommet adapters having an opening formed therein; and

a plurality of tensioning cables each coupled to one of the grommet adapters at a first end and coupled to the foundation structure at a second end.

2. The wind turbine system of claim 1, further comprising at least one knee component, wherein the plurality of tension cables are coupled to the one or more connector rings at a connection point above the at least one knee component.

3. The wind turbine system of claim 2, comprising a single knee member disposed proximate one of a tip of the tower structure or a midpoint of the tower structure.

4. The wind turbine system of claim 2, comprising a first knee component disposed proximate a tip of the tower structure and a second knee component disposed proximate a midpoint of the tower structure, wherein the plurality of tension cables are coupled to the connector ring at a connection point above the first knee component.

5. The wind turbine system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of tension cables are configured in a cross-cable configuration.

6. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of tension cables is internal to the tower structure and coupled to one of the grommet adapters in a cross-cable configuration.

7. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein the one or more connector rings are disposed between two adjacent tower structure flanges.

8. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein the one or more connector rings are disposed around an exterior surface of the tower structure.

9. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein each of the cushion eye adapters is configured in a downwardly angled position.

10. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein each of the grommet adapters is configured in one of a teardrop configuration, a straight configuration, a donut configuration, and a mushroom configuration.

11. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein each of the cushion eye adapters is comprised of a plurality of components.

12. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein the one or more connector rings comprise a plurality of ring segments, and wherein each of at least three of the grommet adapters is disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of ring segments.

13. The wind turbine system of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of grommet adapters comprises a back side extension for load transfer.

14. The wind turbine system of claim 1, wherein the opening in each of the cushion eye adapters is configured as one of a horizontal opening or a vertical opening.

15. A wind turbine system, comprising:

a wind turbine generator comprising a tower structure mounted on a foundation structure, the tower structure comprising a plurality of tower sections, each of the plurality of tower sections comprising one or more tower section flanges;

one or more connector rings, each of the one or more connector rings disposed proximate to two adjacent tower section flanges, each of the one or more connector rings comprising a plurality of grommet adapters having openings formed therein, wherein each of the one or more connector rings comprises one of a non-segmented connector ring and a segmented connector ring;

a plurality of tensioning cables each coupled to one of the plurality of grommet adapters at a first end and coupled to the foundation structure at a second end; and

at least one knee component, wherein the plurality of tension cables are coupled to the at least one knee component and to one of the plurality of eyecushion adapters at a connection point above the at least one knee component.

16. The wind turbine system of claim 15, wherein the one or more connector rings are disposed one of between two adjacent tower structure flanges or around an exterior surface of the tower structure.

17. The wind turbine system of claim 15, comprising a single knee member disposed proximate one of a tip of the tower structure and a midpoint of the tower structure.

18. The wind turbine system of claim 15, comprising a first knee component disposed proximate a tip of the tower structure and a second knee component disposed proximate a midpoint of the tower structure, wherein the plurality of tension cables are coupled to the one or more connector rings at a connection point above the first knee component.

19. The wind turbine system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of tension cables are configured in a cross-cable configuration.

20. The wind turbine system of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of tension cables is internal to the tower structure and coupled to one of the grommet adapters in a cross-cable configuration.

21. The wind turbine system of claim 15, wherein each of the grommet adapters is configured in one of a teardrop configuration, a straight configuration, a donut configuration, and a mushroom configuration.

22. The wind turbine system of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of grommet adapters comprises a back side extension for load transfer.

23. A method of stabilizing a wind turbine system, comprising:

mounting a tower structure on a foundation structure, the tower structure comprising a plurality of tower sections, each of the plurality of tower sections comprising one or more tower section flanges;

securing a plurality of tension cables to one or more connector rings disposed proximate two adjacent tower section flanges, each of the one or more connector rings including a plurality of grommet adapters having openings formed therein;

securing the plurality of tensioning cables to the base structure; and

mounting a wind turbine generator on the tower structure.

24. The method of claim 23 further including securing the plurality of tension cables at different or multiple connector ring heights and selecting an appropriate height to produce a desired lateral stability based on site conditions.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to wind turbines, and in particular to techniques for stabilizing towers of wind turbines in both new and retrofit applications.

Background

Wind turbines are generally considered environmentally safe and desirable sources of renewable energy. In general, wind turbines utilize kinetic energy of wind and convert such kinetic energy into electrical energy. Thus, unlike existing power generation technologies that burn natural gas or coal, electrical power can be generated with virtually zero emissions. To maximize the efficiency of power generation and simplify connection to the grid, several wind turbines are often located close to each other, in what is commonly referred to in the related art as a "wind farm". Advantageously, these wind farms are located in areas with relatively strong winds.

Many wind turbines are rapidly approaching the end of their design life. With the development of new wind energy technologies in recent years, upgrading or replacing older wind turbines with newer wind turbines can potentially increase production by a factor of two or more. Currently, "re-powering" old wind turbines (wind turbines) is a vital and growing business among major turbine manufacturers. These new techniques include using larger turbines or locating the hub at a higher location where wind conditions allow, thus achieving an increase in Annual Energy Production (AEP).

The overall structural design of the tower and the infrastructure of a wind turbine is determined by the size of the turbine, the dynamic wind loads under the various turbine operating modes, and the extreme loads imposed during high wind speed conditions (during which the turbine may or may not be operating). To minimize fatigue loads, the stiffness of the tower and the foundation structure should desirably be sized such that the overall natural frequency of the wind turbine/foundation system is outside the excited frequency range due to rotor operation and dynamic wind loads. It is typical industrial practice to size the stiffness of the tower and the foundation structure such that the overall system natural frequency is higher than the excitation frequency from the rotor rotation, but lower than the excitation frequency from the blades passing the wind turbine tower. At larger heights (>120 m) as can be seen in advanced wind energy technology, standard tubular towers are not cost-effective. Even if a larger tower would become available, its feasibility is limited due to limited availability and increased expense of the larger infrastructure. The tower and foundation therefore become limiting factors in the process of upgrading to larger turbines. Replacing the entire tower and infrastructure requires significant cost and time. Thus, advanced tower designs for both new and retrofit applications are necessary for both advanced wind energy technology and reduced cost.

Tower stabilization of guy or cable has long been a mature technique for static applications (masts, bridges, etc.). Traditionally, cables are used for small wind turbines. Until recently, cables were not entering the large utility wind turbine market. By attaching the cables to the tower structure, the additional bending moment from the larger turbine is counteracted by the cable tension. Starting from the attachment point of the cable and downwards, the bending moment is significantly reduced. The moment acting on the base structure is also reduced. Connector technology couples the guy wires to the tower and efficiently transfers operational loads from the tower to the cables. Existing designs use cables and cable connectors that are welded or bolted to the outside or inside of the tower shell/flange. In other designs, a connector secured to the inside of the tower shell requires the cable to penetrate the shell. This design creates stress concentrations around the perimeter of the opening, thereby increasing the complexity of the design. Welding and bolting are typically more difficult to design for fatigue life.

Accordingly, there is a need to design systems and methods for stabilizing wind turbines that will provide the necessary offset for the increased bending loads of larger turbines at increased tower heights and higher winds. There is also a need for a more robust design of a connector that is not only cost effective, but also has increased fatigue life and allows for ease of manufacture and assembly.

Disclosure of Invention

Aspects and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the disclosure. Briefly, in accordance with one aspect of the present technique, a wind turbine system is provided. The wind turbine system includes: a wind turbine generator comprising a tower structure mounted on a foundation structure; one or more connector rings; and a plurality of tension cables. The tower structure includes a plurality of tower sections. Each of the plurality of tower sections includes one or more tower section flanges. Each of the one or more connector rings is disposed proximate to two adjacent tower section flanges. Each of the one or more connector rings includes a plurality of grommet adapters having openings formed therein. Each of the plurality of tensioning cables is coupled to one of the grommet adapters at a first end and to the foundation structure at a second end.

According to another aspect, a wind turbine system is provided. The wind turbine system includes: a wind turbine generator comprising a tower structure mounted on a foundation structure; one or more connector rings; a plurality of tension cables; and at least one knee component. The tower structure includes a plurality of tower sections, each of the tower sections including one or more tower section flanges. Each of the one or more connector rings is disposed proximate to two adjacent tower section flanges. Each of the one or more connector rings includes a plurality of grommet adapters having openings formed therein. Each of the one or more connector rings includes one of a non-segmented connector ring and a segmented connector ring. Each of the plurality of tensioning cables is coupled to one of the plurality of grommet adapters at a first end and to the foundation structure at a second end. A plurality of tensioning cables are coupled to the at least one knee component and to one of the plurality of eyelet adapters at a connection point above the at least one knee component.

According to yet another aspect, a method of stabilizing a wind turbine system is provided. The method comprises the following steps: mounting a tower structure on a foundation structure; fixing a plurality of tensioning cables; and mounting the wind turbine generator on the tower structure. The tower structure includes a plurality of tower sections, wherein each of the plurality of tower sections includes one or more tower section flanges. A plurality of tension cables are secured to one or more connector rings disposed proximate two adjacent tower section flanges and secured to the foundation structure. Each of the one or more connector rings includes a plurality of grommet adapters having openings formed therein.

Drawings

These and other features of the present disclosure will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings that depict various embodiments of the disclosure, in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatical illustration of a wind turbine system in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical illustration of an embodiment of a non-segmented connector ring for use in the wind turbine systems disclosed herein in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic illustration of an embodiment of a grommet adapter that is part of the non-segmented connector ring of FIG. 8 in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

fig. 10 is a diagrammatic illustration of another embodiment of a pad eye adapter as part of a non-segmented connector ring in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

Fig. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of another embodiment of a pad eye adapter as part of a non-segmented connector ring in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

fig. 12 is a diagrammatic illustration of another embodiment of a pad eye adapter as part of a non-segmented connector ring in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

fig. 13 is a diagrammatic illustration of another embodiment of a pad eye adapter as part of a non-segmented connector ring in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatical illustration of an embodiment of a segmented connector ring for use in the wind turbine systems disclosed herein in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein;

fig. 15 is a diagrammatic illustration of a pad eye adapter as part of the segmented connector ring of fig. 15 in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein; and

fig. 16 is a diagrammatic illustration of a grommet adapter as part of a segmented connector ring in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein; and

FIG. 17 is a diagrammatical illustration of an embodiment of a segmented connector ring for use in the wind turbine systems disclosed herein in accordance with one or more embodiments shown or described herein.

Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings provided herein are intended to illustrate features of embodiments of the present disclosure. These features are believed to be applicable in a wide variety of systems that include one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As such, the drawings are not intended to include all of the conventional features known to those of ordinary skill in the art to be required to practice the embodiments disclosed herein.

Note that the drawings as presented herein are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the disclosed embodiments, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent same or analogous features or elements of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Various examples are provided by way of explanation of the disclosure, not limitation of the disclosure. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. It is therefore intended that the present disclosure cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Approximating language, such as "substantially," "substantially," and "about," as used herein, indicates that the term so modified may apply only to the degree of approximation, as one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize, and not to an absolute or perfect degree, unless otherwise indicated. Accordingly, a value modified by such a term should not be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, the ranges are limited in combination and interchangeable. Such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

By incorporating one or more connector rings disposed between one or more tower section flanges having one or more tensioning or tensioning cables coupled thereto, the stabilization system described below provides a novel approach directed to stabilizing an superstructure, such as a wind turbine tower. The overall lateral shear and overturning moment from the wind turbine translates into varying tensile loads in the tension cables. The connector ring and cable are configured to provide the required stiffness and load carrying capacity under varying loads. Embodiments of the present technique are described below with general reference to fig. 1-16.

Turning now to the drawings, fig. 1-7 illustrate various configurations of the tension cables described herein for stabilizing a wind turbine tower. In each of the embodiments of fig. 1-7, a wind turbine system is illustrated in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present technique. Each of the wind turbine systems includes a wind turbine generator 12, the wind turbine generator 12 including a rotor 14 having a plurality of blades 16. Various electrical and mechanical components of the wind turbine generator 12 (such as a drive train, generator, etc.) are housed in the nacelle 18. In various embodiments, the rotor 16 and nacelle 18 are mounted atop a tower 20, which tower 20 exposes the blades 16 to the wind. The blades 16 transform the kinetic energy of the wind into rotational motion of a shaft, which drives a generator (not shown) to produce electrical power.

Tower structure 20, nacelle 18, and rotor 14 are mounted on a foundation structure 22. In the illustrated embodiment, tower 20 is secured to a foundation structure 22. Tower structure 20 is a cylindrical column that extends from foundation structure 22 to a height "h" above foundation structure 22₁". The tower structure 20 is configured to support the own weight of the nacelle 18 and the rotor 14, axial (vertical) loads due to tension in the cables (pre-tension during installation and varying tensile loads during operation of the wind turbine), and overturning moments due to wind loads. In accordance with one embodiment of the present technique, this combined lateral load and overturning moment on tower structure 20 is mitigated by using a plurality of tensioning or tensioning cables 30, referred to herein simply as tensioning cables 30. These tension cables 30 are configured to secure the wind turbine system to tower structure 20 at a first end 32 via a connector ring 34 (presently described). The tension cables 30 are further configured to secure the wind turbine system to the foundation structure 22 at the second end 36, and ultimately to the ground surface 38, via the array of connectors 40. In one embodiment, these connectors 40 may be located in a symmetrical circular array around tower structure 20. In some embodiments, the actual position of the connector 40 may be based on being in some way The need to enhance structural rigidity and load carrying capacity upwardly. The connector 40 is adapted to transfer loads from the tension cable 30 to the infrastructure 22.

The tension cable 30 is flexibly connected to the connector ring 34 via a first end 32 and to the connector 40 via a second end 36. In the context of this discussion, a "flexible" connection is one that: which allows relative rotation of the cable 30 with respect to the connector ring 34 and the connector 40 at the respective interconnection points, thereby reducing fatigue and stress concentrations at these joints. Indeed, the "flexible" connection described in more detail below is adapted to convert lateral loads and overturning moments on the tower structure 20 into axial loads on the cables 30. The cable 30 may be formed of, for example, steel cord, synthetic polyester, or the like, and is typically between 3 and 5 inches in diameter. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 30 is designed with receptacles 42 and 44 at either end. The illustrated sockets 42 and 44 are formed from, for example, steel casting, and are conically shaped with two parallel flanges that receive connecting pins 46 and 48. At the first end 32 of each of the tensioning cables 30, a connecting pin 46 connects the top receptacle 42 to the connector ring 34. At the second end 36 of the tensioning cable 30, a connecting pin 48 connects the bottom receptacle 44 to the connector 40 of the chassis 22. The use of a pinned connection allows for a small rotation of the cable 30 and thus minimizes stress concentrations at the two joints. One skilled in the art will recognize that several other common cable termination designs may simultaneously minimize the effects of stress concentrations and are contemplated herein.

In the illustrated embodiment of fig. 1-7, each cable 30 may further include an in-line tensioning device 50 to adjust the tension in the cable 30 and provide adequate lateral stability and the necessary foundation stiffness at the installation site. Interconnection between the cable 30 and the tensioner 50 may be achieved by an additional socket (not shown) which may be flange bonded or welded directly to the tensioner. In one embodiment, the tensioning device 36 consists of a threaded U-bolt with a load nut that can be tightened to increase the tension in the cable 30. As those skilled in the art will recognize, a variety of other in-line cable tensioners may be utilized. The tensioning device 50 advantageously facilitates adjusting the tension of the cable to facilitate quick installation of the infrastructure. In addition, the tension in the cable 30 may be periodically adjusted to correct for the effects of creep and slack and to maintain a sufficient safety margin at all times.

During installation of the wind turbine system, the cable 30 may be set to an initial pre-strained condition via the tensioning device 50. In certain embodiments, the tension in the cable 30 may be relaxed during maintenance operations for easier access to the site, and re-tensioned before the wind turbine resumes operation. The tension cable 30 may further be advantageously used to secure the wind turbine nacelle/tower top prior to extreme weather events, such as in the case of wind speeds exceeding the original design intent. In certain embodiments, redundant cables may be used to anchor the caisson or tower such that when one of the cables fails due to an unforeseen event (such as, for example, a vessel strike), the wind turbine remains operating in a steady state.

As best illustrated in fig. 1-7, the wind turbine assembly further includes one or more knee members 52 oriented horizontally with respect to the tower structure 20. One or more knee members 52 provide additional attachment locations for tension cables 30 proximate tower structure 20. One or more knee members 52 may be constructed of a separate component part disposed about tower structure 20, a truss structure, or a complete ring. In an embodiment, one or more knee members 52 are welded to tower structure 20. In another embodiment, one or more knee members 52 are disposed between adjacent tower section flanges (presently described) clamped between the tower flanges.

A modified configuration of the respective embodiments of fig. 1 to 7 will now be described. Referring more specifically to FIG. 1, a first embodiment of a wind turbine system 60 is illustrated in a side view. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, connector ring 34 is disposed between adjacent tower sections proximate to a distal end 62 of tower structure 20. More specifically, in this particular embodiment, connector ring 34 is disposed between first tower structure section 64 and second tower structure section 66. Each of first tower structure section 64 and second tower structure section 66 includes a flange (now described). Connector ring 34 is arranged between two adjacent tower section flanges, and more particularly between a first tower structure section flange and a second tower structure section flange. In addition, the embodiment of fig. 1 includes a knee piece 52 disposed between connector ring 34 and chassis 22. Each of the tension cables 30 is coupled to a connector ring 34 (now described), a knee component 52, and a connector 40. In this particular embodiment, by configuring tension cables 30, connector ring 34, and knee 52 as described, the overall footprint of wind turbine system 60 (i.e., infrastructure 22) may be kept to a minimum (such as is required in many wind farm examples, etc.). As illustrated, the inclusion of the knee component 52 provides the cable 30 with the following points: at this point, cable 30 becomes oriented parallel to tower structure 20 between knee member 52 and foundation structure 22.

For navigational and aesthetic reasons, the interconnection point of the tension cable 30 and the tower structure 20 may be as high as possible on a particular installation site, but is also positioned to maintain a safe distance from the passageway of the rotating blade 16. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the cables are interconnected proximate a distal end 62 of the tower structure 20. A tensioning device 50 may be advantageously provided above or below knee member 52 to facilitate easy and remote adjustment of tension in cable 30 based on field conditions. In the illustrated embodiment, the tensioner 50 is positioned above the knee piece 52.

FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of a wind turbine system 70 in side view, wherein the tensioning cables 30 may also be attached at other intermediate heights, such as near a midpoint 72 of the tower structure 20. As previously described with respect to FIG. 1, connector ring 34 is disposed between adjacent tower sections of tower structure 20. More specifically, in this particular embodiment, connector ring 34 is disposed proximate to an overall height h of tower structure 20₁Between adjacent tower structure sections at the midpoint 72. As previously described, connector ring 34 is disposed between two adjacent tower section flanges. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, wind tower system 70 of FIG. 2 includes knee member 52 disposed between connector ring 34 and foundation structure 22. Each of the tension cables 30 is coupled to a link Connector ring 34 (now described), knee member 52, and connector 40. In this particular embodiment, by configuring tension cables 30, connector ring 34, and knee 52 as described, the overall footprint of wind turbine system 70 (i.e., infrastructure 22) may be kept to a minimum (such as is required in many wind farm examples, etc.). Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the inclusion of the knee member 52 provides the following points for the cable 30: at this point, cable 30 becomes oriented parallel to tower structure 20 between knee member 52 and foundation structure 22.

In the illustrated embodiment of fig. 2, a tensioning device 50 may be advantageously provided above or below knee piece 52 to facilitate easy and remote adjustment of tension in cable 30 based on field conditions. In the illustrated embodiment, the tensioner 50 is positioned below the knee piece 52.

Referring now to fig. 3 and 4, additional configurations of wind turbine systems (generally designated 80, 90, respectively) according to the present disclosure are illustrated in side view. In each of the embodiments of fig. 3 and 4, the wind turbine system 80, 90 is constructed in substantially the same manner as in fig. 1 and 2 with respect to including the connector ring 34 and the knee piece 52. In contrast to the embodiment of fig. 1 and 2, in the wind turbine systems 80, 90 of fig. 3 and 4, a plurality of knee members 52 are included for coupling the tension cable 30 thereto, and various locations along the tower structure 20 are illustrated for the plurality of knee members 52. Furthermore, in contrast to the embodiment of fig. 1 and 2, the inclusion of knee member 52 provides a connection point for cable 30, but as illustrated, tensioning cable 30 need not be oriented parallel to tower structure 20 between knee member 52 and foundation structure 22. As best illustrated in fig. 3 and 4, in embodiments where tensioning cables 30 are coupled to foundation structure 22 at a greater angle, foundation structure 22 may also be divided into two or more sections. More specifically, in the embodiment of fig. 3 and 4, foundation structure 22 is made up of a central foundation structure 22a and one or more individual foundation pads 22b, with tower structure 20 coupled to central foundation structure 22 a. As best illustrated in fig. 3, in an embodiment, a plurality of tensioning cables 30 may be coupled to a single chassis pad 22b formed around central chassis 22 a. As best illustrated in fig. 4, in embodiments, the foundation structure 22 may be comprised of a plurality of individually formed foundation structure mats 22b formed around the central foundation structure 22a, and each individual tensioning cable 30 is coupled to a respective foundation structure mat 22 b.

Referring now to fig. 5 and 6, additional configurations of wind turbine systems (generally designated 100, 110, respectively) according to the present disclosure are illustrated in side view. In each of the embodiments of fig. 5 and 6, the wind turbine systems 100, 110 are configured in substantially the same manner as in fig. 3 and 4 with respect to including the connector ring 34 and the plurality of knee members 52 positioned at various locations along the tower structure 20. In contrast to the embodiments of fig. 1-4, in the wind turbine systems 100, 110 of fig. 5 and 6, the tensioning cables 30 are configured in a cross-cable configuration. The cross-cable configuration of the tension cables 30 provides additional torsional stiffness to the overall structure. As illustrated, cross-tension cables 30 may be coupled to connector ring 34 and one or more knee members 52 positioned at various locations along tower structure 20.

FIG. 7 illustrates, in a cross-sectional view, another configuration of a wind turbine system (generally designated 120) according to the present disclosure. In this particular embodiment, wind turbine system 120 is configured in a cross-cable configuration substantially the same as in FIGS. 5 and 6 with respect to a system that includes connector ring 34 and a plurality of knee members 52 positioned at various locations along tower structure 20. In contrast to the embodiment of fig. 1-6, in the wind turbine system 120 of fig. 7, the tension cables 30 are configured in an interior space 122 defined within the tower structure 20 and more particularly within each tower structure section. Similar to the embodiment of fig. 5 and 6, the cross-cable configuration of the tension cables 30 provides additional torsional stiffness to the overall structure. As illustrated, cross-tension cables 30 can be coupled to connector ring 34 and one or more knee components 52, knee components 52 being positioned at various locations along interior space 122 of tower structure 20.

In each of the embodiments of fig. 1-7, the tension cable 30 is coupled to at least one connector ring 34. Fig. 8-17 are provided as embodiments that may be employed in any of the previously described cable configurations for securing the tension cable 30 to the connector ring 34. As noted previously, like elements have like numbers in all embodiments. Each of the connector rings described herein may be formed by casting, machining, and the like. Referring more particularly to fig. 8, an embodiment of a connector ring 130 substantially similar to connector ring 34 is illustrated, connector ring 130 being for use in any of the previously described embodiments of fig. 1-6. In the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9, connector ring 130 is non-segmented. More particularly, connector ring 130 is formed as a continuous ring 132 for disposition between adjacent flanges of tower structure sections of tower structure 20, as best described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2. As best illustrated in FIG. 9, in an embodiment, connector ring 130 is disposed between adjacent flanges 134, 136, respectively, of each of tower structure sections 138, 140, flanges 134, 136 each having a plurality of openings 142 formed therein. In this particular embodiment, the connector ring 130 includes a plurality of openings 144 formed therearound and cooperatively aligned with the openings 142 formed in the flanges 134, 136. To provide for coupling of connector ring 130 to flanges 134, 136 of tower structure 20, bolts (not shown) or similar coupling members are disposed in openings 142 and 144.

The connector ring 130 includes a plurality of grommet adapters 146 (only one of which is illustrated), the grommet adapters 146 each having an opening 148 formed therein. Each of the grommet adapters 146 is configured to extend a distance "d" from an outer periphery 150 of the continuous ring 132₁". In an alternative embodiment, for use in an internally located tensioning cable 30 as depicted in fig. 7, a plurality of grommet adapters 146 may be formed to extend into the interior space 122 (fig. 7) of the connector ring. In the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9, the grommet adapter 146 is configured in a downwardly angled configuration with the plurality of openings 148 oriented horizontally, and the grommet adapter 146 is referred to herein as a mushroom-type adapter, but note that the geometry of the connector ring 130 is design dependent with respect to the coupling of the tension cable 30 in the openings 148.

Referring now to fig. 10, another embodiment of a connector ring is illustrated that is generally similar to connector ring 34 of fig. 1-7. In this particular embodiment, a connector ring 160 is illustrated. Similar to the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9, connector ring 160 is non-segmented and is comprised of a continuous ring 132 disposed between adjacent flanges of tower structure sections of tower structure 20, as best described with respect to fig. 1 and 2. More specifically, and as best illustrated in FIG. 10, in an embodiment, connector ring 160 is disposed between adjacent flanges 134, 136, respectively, of each of tower structure sections 138, 140, flanges 134, 136 each having a plurality of openings 142 formed therein. In this particular embodiment, connector ring 160 is configured to include continuous ring 132, with continuous ring 132 including an extension portion 162 that extends beyond the outer perimeter of tower structure 20 and has a plurality of openings 164 formed therein. The connector ring 160 includes a plurality of openings 144 formed therearound and cooperatively aligned with the openings 142 formed in the flanges 134, 136. To provide for coupling of connector ring 160 to flanges 134, 136 of tower structure 20, bolts (not shown) or similar coupling members are disposed in openings 142 and 144.

The connector ring 160 includes a plurality of grommet adapters 146 (only one of which is illustrated), the grommet adapters 146 each having an opening 148 formed therein. In contrast to the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9, in this particular embodiment, grommet adapter 146 is configured to have a substantially straight geometry. In addition, in contrast to the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9, in this particular embodiment, the grommet adapter 146 is configured as a separate component coupled to the extension portion 162 of the continuous ring 132. To accomplish such coupling, each of the grommet adapters 146 includes one or more coupling openings 166 cooperatively aligned with the openings 164 formed in the extension portion 162 of the continuous ring 132. Bolts (not shown) or similar coupling members are disposed in the openings 164 and 166. In the embodiment of fig. 10, the grommet adapter 146 is configured to angle downward, but note that the grommet adapter 146 is design dependent with respect to the coupling of the tension cable 30 in the opening 148. In addition, in contrast to the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9, the opening 148 defined in the grommet adapter 146 is configured as a vertical opening.

Referring now to fig. 11 and 12, there is illustrated a connector ring designated 170 and 175, wherein elements common to those of the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9 are designated with the same reference numerals. In contrast to the previous embodiments, the grommet adapter 146 is configured to have a tear drop geometry, and more specifically, a single tear drop geometry as best illustrated in fig. 11 and a double tear drop geometry as best illustrated in fig. 12. In the embodiment of fig. 11, a connector ring 170 is illustrated that includes a plurality of grommet adapters 146 (only one of which is illustrated), wherein the grommet adapters 146 are equally spaced around the connector ring 170. In the embodiment of fig. 12, a connector ring 175 is illustrated that includes a plurality of pairs of eye adapters 146, wherein each pair of eye adapters 146 is equally spaced about connector ring 175 and is referred to herein as having a double tear-drop geometry.

Referring now to fig. 13, a connector ring is illustrated, designated 180, wherein elements common to those of the embodiment of fig. 8 and 9 are designated with the same reference numerals. In contrast to the previous embodiment, the grommet adapter 146 is configured to have a donut (donut ring) geometry. In the embodiment of fig. 13, a connector ring 180 is illustrated that includes a plurality of grommet adapters 146 (only one of which is illustrated), wherein the grommet adapters 146 are equally spaced around the connector ring 180. In the embodiment of fig. 13, a connector ring 180 is illustrated, wherein each grommet adapter 146 is referred to herein as having a ring-type geometry that includes a horizontally configured opening 148.

As previously noted, in each of the embodiments of fig. 1-7, the tension cable 30 is coupled to at least one connector ring 34, and more particularly, to an opening 148 formed in the grommet adapter 146. Fig. 14-17 are provided as additional embodiments that may be employed in any of the previously described cable configurations for securing the tension cable 30 to the connector ring 34. As noted previously, like elements have like numbers in all embodiments. Referring more particularly to fig. 14, there is illustrated an embodiment of a connector ring 190 generally similar to connector ring 34, connector ring 190 for use in any of the previously described embodiments of fig. 1-6. In the embodiment of fig. 14, the connector ring 190 is segmented. More particularly, the connector ring 190 is comprised of a plurality of ring segments 192 and a plurality of grommet adapters 146 for disposition between adjacent flanges of tower structure sections of the tower structure 20, as best described with respect to fig. 1 and 2. More specifically, in an embodiment, connector ring 190 is disposed between adjacent flanges (not shown) that are substantially similar to adjacent flanges 134, 136, respectively, of each of tower structure sections 138, 140, as previously described with respect to FIGS. 8 and 9. In this particular embodiment, the plurality of ring segments 192 includes a plurality of openings 144 formed therearound and cooperatively aligned with openings formed in the flanges 134, 136, as previously described. To provide for coupling of connector ring 190 to flanges 134, 136 of tower structure 20, bolts (not shown) or similar coupling members are provided in the openings.

The connector ring 190 includes a plurality of grommet adapters 146, the grommet adapters 146 each having an opening 148 formed therein. In contrast to the previous embodiments, each of the grommet adapters 146 is configured as a separate component that is disposed between adjacent ring segments 192 and that is configured to extend a distance "d" from the outer periphery 150 of the adjacent ring segments 192₁". In an alternative embodiment, for use in an internally located tensioning cable 30 as depicted in fig. 7, a plurality of grommet adapters 146 may be formed to extend into the interior space 122 (fig. 7) of the connector ring. In the embodiment of fig. 14, the grommet adapter 146 is configured in a downwardly angled configuration with the plurality of openings 148 oriented vertically, but again note that the geometry of the connector ring 190 is design dependent with respect to the coupling of the tension cable 30 in the openings 148.

As previously described, in this particular embodiment, the grommet adapter 146 is configured as a separate member disposed between adjacent ring segments 192. In contrast to the previously disclosed embodiment, in this particular embodiment, as best illustrated in fig. 15, the grommet adapter 146 includes a dorsal extension 194, the dorsal extension 194 providing load transfer to the dorsal extension 194. To provide for coupling of the cushion eye adapter 146 to the flanges 134, 136 of the tower structure 20, the cushion eye adapter 146 may include an opening 196, as illustrated in FIG. 15, and a coupling member, such as a bolt, may be positioned through the opening 196 and the opening 196 aligned with the opening 142 in the flanges 134, 136.

In an alternative embodiment, as best illustrated in FIG. 16, connector ring 200 includes a grommet adapter 146 positioned between flanges 134, 136 and coupled to flanges 134, 136 via one or more bolts 204, bolts 204 extending from backside extension 194 through optional gussets 206 for contacting stress distribution and into flanges 134, 136 of tower structure 20. In the embodiment of fig. 16, a plurality of cylindrical bearings 202 may be disposed between the grommet adapter 146 and the flanges 134, 146.

Referring now to fig. 17, another embodiment of a connector ring is illustrated that is generally similar to connector ring 34 of fig. 1-7. In this particular embodiment, a connector ring 210 is illustrated. In contrast to the previously described embodiments, in this particular embodiment, connector ring 210 is configured to be disposed around the exterior of tower structure 20. Connector ring 210 is typically disposed about the outer surface of tower structure 20 and adjacent to the adjacent flange of the tower structure section. More specifically, and as best illustrated in FIG. 17, in an embodiment, connector ring 210 is segmented, and more particularly constructed in a plurality of segments 212, which segments 212 are coupled together about tower structure 200, such as with a plurality of bolts 214 or similar coupling members. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector ring 210 is constructed of two hemispherical members. In the exemplary example, connector ring 210 is disposed proximate adjacent flanges, such as adjacent flanges 134, 136 of tower structure sections 138, 140 as previously described with respect to fig. 9-13. In this particular embodiment, the connector ring 210 is configured to include a plurality of segments 212 that each include a plurality of grommet adapters 146 (three of which are illustrated), the grommet adapters 146 each having an opening 148 formed therein. In this particular embodiment, the grommet adapter 146 is configured to have substantially any of the previously described geometries, but it is noted that the grommet adapter 146 is design dependent with respect to the coupling of the tension cable 30 in the opening 148. In contrast to the previously described connector ring embodiments, the connector ring 210 depicted in FIG. 17 does not require any modification of the tower structure during installation.

The wind turbine system described above facilitates installing or repairing a wind turbine using as many existing tower components and foundations as possible, thereby eliminating the restriction between the tower and foundation due to greater loads, and providing for the use of a potentially higher hub, thus increasing Annual Energy Production (AEP) while minimizing field work. The design of the wind turbine system according to the present technique provides for the use of a tensioning cable in varying configurations whereby the cable is coupled to the connector ring and optional knee component. Various configurations of connector rings are disclosed. While only certain features of the embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

While the invention has been described in terms of one or more specific embodiments, it is apparent that other forms may be employed by those skilled in the art. This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. Furthermore, the skilled person will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments. For example, the various features described, as well as other known equivalents for each feature, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to construct additional systems and techniques in accordance with principles of this disclosure. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages described above may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems and techniques described herein may be embodied or carried out in the following manner: one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein is achieved or optimized without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.