NO20211296A1 - Platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures - Google Patents
Platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures Download PDFInfo
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- NO20211296A1 NO20211296A1 NO20211296A NO20211296A NO20211296A1 NO 20211296 A1 NO20211296 A1 NO 20211296A1 NO 20211296 A NO20211296 A NO 20211296A NO 20211296 A NO20211296 A NO 20211296A NO 20211296 A1 NO20211296 A1 NO 20211296A1
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- platform assembly
- drive unit
- elongated structure
- modules
- platform
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- 230000003044 adaptive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 26
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000004308 accommodation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000009849 deactivation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000005389 magnetism Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009194 climbing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003028 elevating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B27/00—Apparatus for climbing poles, trees, or the like
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- 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
- E04G3/243—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 following the outside contour of a building
-
- 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
- E04G3/28—Mobile scaffolds; Scaffolds with mobile platforms
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Rod-Shaped Construction Members (AREA)
Description
Platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures
The present invention is related to a platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures, according to the preamble of claim 1.
The present invention is especially related to a platform assembly that is movable in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure enabling the platform assembly to be elevated and lowered along the vertically extending elongate structure.
Background
In connection with vertically extending elongated structures there is a need for perming work on various parts, such as maintenance, assembling and disassembling of parts of the structure, etc. An example of an elongated structure is a tower or mast of a wind turbine.
Today, wind turbine towers are assembled on site where the blades and structure are elevated by large cranes and attached to the turbine part of the power. However, because wind turbine towers often are located far away from existing road infrastructure, such as on mountain ridges, wide roads and space demanding crane support on the ground has to be built in order to be able to erect a crane. From an environmental point of view, roads and ground support represent a severe intervention to the nature, intervention that may last forever.
US 2013/0228397 discloses maintenance systems for wind turbine towers. The systems exhibit means of different kinds for elevating and lowering a working platform along a wind turbine tower. In one embodiment, the working platform is lowered and elevated by motor driven crawler tracks in engagement with the outer periphery of the wind turbine tower. In another embodiment an upper and lower (with respect to the vertical extension of the working platform per se,) iris brake structure encircling the periphery of the tower are connected to the working platform. Numerous positioning blades are within each upper and lower iris brake interconnected by actuator cylinders arranged to contract the iris brake into a locking engagement, and vice versa, extract the iris brake into a released position. During elevation (or lowering) of the working platform, one iris brake is in locking engagement with the mast whereas the other is lifted in a released state and brought into engagement with the mast. In this way, the iris brakes serves as a drive means for lifting and lowering the working platform.
In DE102013002886 B3 is described a device having a multi-portion dismountable working platform. The device is based on the use of magnetism or vacuum to achieve necessary attachment force to the structure. The device has no brakes, but has an emergency brake system to be able to lower the platform to ground level in case of loss of energy supply.
From WO 2010136026 A2 is known a device comprising a platform adapted for use on a wind power turbine. The device comprises at least two rings, upper and lower rings, respectively, wherein the at least two rings are hydraulically driven attachment point that press against the tower to retaining the device vertically. It is further described a jack system for changing the vertical distance between the two rings. At climbing upwards the lowermost ring is locked to the tower while the jack system lifts the upper ring, which next is locked to the tower while the lower ring is released and the jack systems pulls the lower ring upwards. By repeating these movements, the device is able to climb upwards, and by opposite movements the device is able to climb downwards on the tower.
CN 104370220 A also describes a similar solution as WO 2010136026 A2.
In DE 19741988 A1 is described a self-climbing crane capable of moving upwards and downwards a tower of wind turbine, wherein the crane uses crawler tracks for movement.
The main disadvantage of the prior art solutions is that they do not provide safe operation of the platform due to lack of an independent fail-safe brake system.
Another disadvantage with the prior art is that it relies only on the friction/vacuum/magnetism drive units to carry load, and does not provide an option for mechanically fixating the platform to the tower structure.
Prior art also focus on maintenance and assembly tasks, while disassembly and demolition of wind turbines are not considered.
Prior art does not consider geometries other than circular cross sections, as wind turbine towers, and is not designed for other shapes and installations as e.g. rectangular or square concrete bridge pillars.
Another disadvantage with the prior art solutions is that they are not adapted for offshore use.
Object
The main object of the present invention is to provide a platform assembly partly or entirely solving the drawbacks of the prior art solutions.
An object of the present invention is to provide a platform assembly that is safe to use when performing operations at an elevation along a vertically extending elongated structure.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a platform assembly provided with an independent fail-safe brake system and mechanical locking system that will maintain the platform assembly to the elongated structure in case of loss of power or other error.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a platform assembly of low weight.
An object of the present invention is to provide a platform assembly easy to transport, as well as to assemble and disassemble.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a platform assembly that is adaptable as regards arrangement of equipment or tools for performing maintenance or work on an elongated structure.
An object of the present invention is to provide a platform assembly that may be used both onshore and offshore.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a platform assembly that is adaptable to elongated structures of different exterior circumference.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a platform assembly that is adaptable to use on different exterior profiles (e.g. circular, rectangular, square).
An object of the present invention is to provide a platform assembly capable of fixation to the elongated structure for heavy operations.
It is further an object of the present invention to provide a platform assembly that will reduce the environmental footprint and costs of maintenance and operations of applications with elongated structures.
Further objects of the present invention will appear from the following description, claims and attached drawings.
The invention
A platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures according to the present invention is defined by technical features of claim 1. Preferable features of the platform are described in the dependent claims.
A platform assembly according to the present invention is adapted for vertically extending elongated structures. The platform is enclosing exterior surface of the elongated structure in circumferential direction with a gap, allowing movement of the platform assembly in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure.
According to the present invention, the platform assembly comprises at least one integrated driving unit enabling movement of the platform assembly in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure by means of frictional engagement with exterior surface of the elongated structure with a desired load.
The at least one driving unit according to the present invention is further provided with an independent fail-safe brake system in the form of a combined brake and emergency brake system enabling the platform assembly to be maintained in position along the elongated structure at any time, also during loss of power and if an error arises.
According to one embodiment of the present invention mentioned brake system comprises at least one spring-loaded brake pad designed to be activated by force of at least one spring for engagement with exterior surface of the elongated structure and deactivated from engagement with the exterior surface of the elongated structure by force of at least one hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the mentioned brake system is designed to maintain the at least one spring-loaded brake pad at a constant distance from the exterior surface of the elongated structure as the platform assembly is moving upwards or downwards on the elongated structure.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the mentioned brake system comprises at least one dump valve for rapid emptying of hydraulic fluid or air when the brake system is activated.
In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, the platform assembly comprises at least one drive unit module comprising at least one drive unit, and at least two adaptive frame modules.
When the platform assembly comprises more than one drive unit module, there is arranged at least one adaptive frame module between each drive unit module distributing the drive units in circumferential direction of the platform assembly.
According to the present invention, when one or two drive unit modules are used, the platform assembly comprises at least one support module comprising at least one roller unit for stability, wherein the support modules and drive unit modules are distributed in circumferential direction of the platform assembly.
In an alternative embodiment, the adaptive frame modules are provided with one or more roller units for stability, either in addition to the mentioned support modules or for replacing the need for such support modules.
By using different numbers of adaptive frame modules or using adaptive frame modules of different shape and/or size the platform assembly according to the present invention may be adapted different elongated structures and/or different numbers of drive unit modules and/or support modules.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the at least one drive unit is further provided with means for fixation to the elongated structure. By providing the drive unit with means for fixation to the elongated structure, the platform assembly may be mechanically locked to the elongated structure to perform heavy operations. According to one embodiment, the mentioned means for fixation also enables releasing of the fixation means allowing the platform assembly to move in relation to the elongated structure and re-fixation at a different position along the elongated structure.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the fixation means is a self-drilling hydraulic or electromechanical locking bolt capable of drilling into the elongated structure and mechanically locking the drive unit and thus the platform assembly to the elongated structure.
According to a one embodiment of the present invention, the drive unit comprises parallel belts and is arranged in the drive unit module by means of at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder enabling movement of the drive unit in a perpendicular direction of the drive unit module to achieve frictional engagement of the parallel belts with the exterior surface of the elongated structure to enable movement of the platform assembly in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure with a desired load.
In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, the drive unit comprises at least one cylinder or stay adapted to pick up vertical load on the parallel belts.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a platform assembly formed by adaptive frame modules and at least one drive unit module with integrated drive unit, and support modules, if present, wherein the configuration of the platform assembly may be adapted to different elongated structures and shapes.
The at least one drive unit will provide frictional engagement with the exterior surface of the elongated structure by the hydraulic or electromechanical cylinders pressing the parallel belts of the drive unit against the exterior surface of the elongated structure. By using lead screw solutions for this, the frictional engagement will not be lost during loss of power or if an error arises.
The mentioned at least one drive unit is as mentioned further provided with at least one springloaded brake pad that will provide both an operational brake and an emergency brake that by engagement with the exterior surface of the elongated structure that together with the frictional engagement of the parallel belts will ensure safe operation of the platform at any time. A great advantage with the emergency brake of the present invention is that no energy supply is required to activate the brake system in an emergency situation.
The present invention further provides a platform assembly of low weight, and further is easy to transport, as well as to assemble and disassemble.
The platform according to the present invention can be used both onshore and offshore.
It is further provided a platform assembly that is adaptable as regards arrangement of equipment or tools for performing maintenance or work on an elongated structure and/or connected elements.
It is further provided a platform assembly that is adaptable as regards arrangement of equipment or tools for performing maintenance or work on elements away from the elongated structure by enabling arrangement of one or more retractable or fixed horizontal working platforms thereon.
It is further provided a platform assembly that is adaptable as regards arrangement of equipment or tools for performing lifting and handling of equipment.
The present invention further provides a platform assembly capable of fixation to the elongated structure for heavy operations.
The present invention is especially suitable for maintenance of wind turbines and other vertical elongated steel or concrete structures, as the present invention will replace the need for large mobile cranes or staffolding.
Further preferable features and advantageous details of the present invention will appear from the following example description, claims and attached drawings.
Example
The present invention will below be described in further detail with references to the attached drawings, where:
Fig.1 is a principle drawing of a platform assembly according to the present invention arranged to a tower of a wind turbine,
Fig.2 is a principle drawing of a platform assembly according to the present invention,
Fig.3 is a principle drawing of an adaptive frame module according to the present invention,
Fig.4a-b are principle drawings of a drive unit according to the present invention,
Fig.5 is a principle drawing of a support module according to the present invention,
Fig.6 is a principle drawing of a further embodiment of the platform assembly according to the present invention, and
Fig.7 is a principle drawing of a controlling of the platform assembly according to the present invention.
Reference is now made to Fig.1 showing a platform assembly 100 according to the present invention arranged a vertically extending elongated structure 10, such as e.g. a wind turbine tower, wherein only a part of the elongated structure 10 is shown.
Reference is also made to Fig. 2 showing a principle a platform assembly 100 according to the present invention without the elongated structure 10.
The platform assembly 100 according to the present invention is formed by adaptive frame modules 110 and at least one drive unit module 120, and one or more support modules 130 (se Fig. 5), if present, adapted for detachable attachment to each other to form a mainly ring-shape for the platform assembly 100 with an interior central opening.
The platform assembly 100 exhibits an inner circumference that is larger than the largest exterior circumference of the vertically extending elongated structure 10 with a gap therebetween to allow the platform assembly 100 to move in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure 10. In many cases, the elongated structure 10 will have a larger exterior circumference at lower part and tapering in the longitudinal direction towards an upper end. By that the platform assembly 100 is adapted the largest exterior circumference of the elongated structure 10 it will be adapted to move along the entire elongated structure 10.
Reference is now made to Fig.3 which is a principle drawing of an adaptive frame module 110 that is only a frame module. The adaptive frame module 110 is formed by frame parts providing a double frame of a mainly rectangular shape, which at ends thereof provide inclined connection surfaces 111 of a desired angle, wherein the connection sides 111 are provided with connection means 112 for connection to corresponding connection means 122 of the drive unit modules 120, support modules 130 or other adaptive frame modules 110.
Reference is now made to Figs.4a-b showing principle drawings of a drive unit module 120 according to the present invention, and details of a drive unit 200 according to the present invention. The drive unit module 120 is formed by frame parts providing a double frame of a mainly rectangular or quadratic shape, wherein the drive unit module 120 is adapted for accommodation and fixation of a drive unit 200 for the platform assembly 100. The drive unit module 120 is at connection sides 121 thereof provided with connection means 122 for connection to corresponding connection means 112 at connection sides 111 of the adaptive frame modules 110.
The drive unit 200 is provided with two parallel belts 210 adapted to travel on the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10, which parallel belts 210 are provided with a sufficient number of rubber pads 211 to achieve sufficient friction against the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10. The parallel belts 210 are driven by toothed wheels 212 powered by at least one hydraulic or electric motor 213 either directly or via one or more transmission means (not shown), such as planet gears. The drive unit 200 is further provided rollers 214, belt tensioners or similar to ensure that the belts 210 are tensioned at all time.
The drive unit 200 is arranged to the drive unit module 120 by means of at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220, in the example shown two hydraulic or electromechanical cylinders 220 arranged between the parallel belts 210 close to each end of a support structure 230 for the drive unit 200. The at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220 extends between the mentioned support structure 230 and a frame part 123 of the drive unit module 120 via attachment means 124. The at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220 enables movement of the drive unit 200 in a perpendicular direction in relation to the drive unit module 120. The at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220 will provide a desired pressure force on the drive unit 200 such that the mentioned parallel belts 210 will provide sufficient friction force on the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10. It will preferable to use an electromechanical cylinder 220 designed as a lead screw cylinder (trapes screw solution) such that the electromechanical cylinder 220 will lock in position even if power is lost, such that the drive unit 200 does not lose the pressure force on the exterior surface of the elongated structure.
The drive unit 200 is further preferably provided with at least one cylinder or stay 240 at each side of the drive unit 200, which at least one cylinder or stay 240 is arranged extending mainly diagonally from a hub of the toothed wheel 212 and to a part of the drive unit module 120 via connection means 241. The at least one cylinder or stay 240 at each side will pick up vertical loads on the parallel belts 210.
According to the present invention the drive unit 200 is further provided with brake system comprising at least one spring-loaded brake pad 250 arranged between the mentioned parallel belts 210 at the side face the elongated structure 10. The at least one spring-loaded brake pad 250 is designed to be activated by engagement with exterior surface of the elongated structure 10 by means of at least one spring and deactivated by force of at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 251, which hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 251 is fixed to the support structure 230 of the drive unit 200. At deactivation of the brake system the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 251 will force the at least one spring-loaded brake pad 250 out of engagement with the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10 by compressing the at least one spring. The brake system is designed to activate immediately when the belts 210 are stopped, and further designed to activate immediately at loss of power or if other error arises. The brake system is designed to deactivate when the belts 210 are operated by that the force of the at least one hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 251 will compress the at least one spring. The brake system is preferably provided with at least one dump valve for rapid emptying of hydraulic fluid or air from the at least one hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 251 when the brake system is activated. The brake system will preferably be a two-circuit or multi-circuit for redundancy and safety, as well as ensuring a dedicated circuit for emergency braking.
The brake system is further designed to maintain the at least one spring-loaded brake pad 250 at a constant distance from the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10 as the platform assembly 100 is moving upwards or downwards on the elongated structure 10. Accordingly, in cases where the elongated structure 10 has a decreasing exterior circumference, the brake system is designed to, by means of the at least one hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 251, adjust the position of the at least one spring-loaded brake pad 250 to maintain the constant distance as the platform assembly 100 moves upwards or downwards on the elongated structure 10.
In addition to the force of the hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 251 the brake system is also designed to use the gravity of the platform assembly 100 by that the weight of the platform assembly 100 in addition to the force of the hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 251 will ensure that the brake pads 250 will be pressed with the necessary force against the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10 and prevent the platform assembly 100 from sliding downwards. In addition, the friction force of the belts 210 will give a contribution to maintain the platform assembly 100 in position.
In an alternative embodiment of the drive unit 200 according to the present invention, it is further provided with means 260 for fixation to the elongated structure 10. According to one embodiment of the present invention the fixation means 260 is formed by a self-drilling hydraulic or electromechanical locking bolt capable of drilling into the elongated structure 10 and locking the drive unit 200 and thus the platform assembly 100 to the elongated structure 10. By retracting the locking bolt from the elongated structure 260, the platform assembly 100 will be free to move again.
At e.g. disassembly of a wind turbine, the locking bolt may be drilled into the tower and locking the platform assembly 100 to the tower in a safe mechanical manner for next to be able to lift down heavy components, as well as enabling cutting the tower into smaller pieces as one moves the platform assembly 100 downwards.
Reference is again made to Fig.2. According to the present invention the platform assembly 100 is formed by at least one drive unit module 120 and at least two adaptive frame modules 110.
In the shown example the platform assembly 100 is formed by three drive unit modules 120 and three adaptive frame modules 110. In the case where the platform assembly 100 comprises more than one drive unit module 120, at least one adaptive frame module 110 is arranged between each drive unit modules 120.
In this manner, the at least one drive unit module 120 may have a fixed shape and size for all applications, and wherein the adaptive frame modules 110 can have a shape and size adapted the elongated structure 10 the platform assembly 100 is to be arranged to. Accordingly, the platform assembly 100 may exhibit different configurations based on using a different number of adaptive frame modules 110, using adaptive frame modules 110 of different shape and/or size, and/or by adding additional drive unit modules 120 and/or support modules 130 (Fig.5).
The platform assembly 100 is arranged to an elongated structure 10 by assembling the at least one drive unit module 120 and the adaptive frame modules 110, and one or more support modules 130, if present, circumferentially around the elongated structure 10 at ground level by means of the connection means 112 and 122, such that the platform assembly 100 encloses the elongated structure 10 in circumferential direction thereof with a gap therebetween.
By activating the hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220, the belts 210 of the drive unit 200 of the at least one drive unit module 120 will engage the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10. In the case where the platform assembly comprises several drive unit modules 120 they will also ensure centering of the platform assembly 100 around the elongated structure 10 due to the hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220 will press with the same force.
Reference is now made to Fig.5 showing a principle drawing of a support module 130 according to the present invention. In a case with one or two drive unit modules 120, the platform assembly 100 is provided with at least one support module 130 for stability. According to the present invention, the support module 130 comprises at least one roller unit 140, preferably more than one roller unit 140 to provide a rack of roller units 140.
The support module 130 is formed by frame parts providing a double frame of a mainly rectangular or quadratic shape, wherein the support module 130 is adapted for accommodation and fixation of the at least one roller unit 140 in the platform assembly 100. The support module 130 is at connection sides 131 thereof provided with connection means 132 for connection to corresponding connection means 112 at connection sides 111 of the adaptive frame modules 110.
The at least one roller unit 140 is arranged with its longitudinal direction transversally between parallel frame parts of the support module 130 facing the elongated structure 10/interior circumference of the platform assembly 100. The roller unit 140 is formed by a shaft 141 and at least one roller 142 arranged rotatable about the longitudinal axis of shaft 141, and wherein the shaft 141 at ends thereof is provided with attachment means 143 for attachment to the respective parallel frame parts of the support module 130.
As shown in Fig.5 the support module 130 may comprise a plurality of the mentioned roller units 140 distributed with a spacing in height direction between the mentioned parallel frame parts of the support module 130.
The support modules 130 may thus be used for replacing the need for the use of several drive unit modules 120, especially when the platform assembly 100 is not required to perform heavy lifting. Accordingly, dependent on the required lifting capacity, the number of drive unit modules 120 and support modules 130 can be altered.
The support modules 130 are thus distributed in circumferential direction of the platform assembly 100, in a similar manner as described for the drive unit modules 120, such that when the drive unit(s) 200 of the one or two drive unit modules 120 engage the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10, the platform assembly 100 is centered around the elongated structure 10.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, one or more adaptive frame modules 110 is provided with at least one roller unit 140 independent of the number of drive unit modules 120, or to replace the need for separate support modules 130. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the roller unit(s) 140 may be arranged in the adaptive frame modules 110 to only extend a part in transversal direction thereof by arranging a further frame part.
However, drive unit module(s) 120 and roller unit(s) 140 should always be distributed in circumferential direction of the platform assembly 100 to ensure that the platform assembly 100 is centered around the elongated structure 10.
Accordingly, when the platform assembly 100 comprises only one drive unit module 120, at least two roller units 140 should be arranged in the platform assembly 100, and when the platform assembly 100 comprises two drive unit modules 120 at least one roller unit 140 should be arranged in the platform assembly 100. When the platform assembly 100 comprises three or more drive unit modules 120 no roller units 140 are required, but could be added depending on the requirements of the platform assembly 100.
Reference is now made to Fig. 6 showing a further embodiment of a platform assembly 100 according to the present invention, wherein the platform assembly 100 at upper end is provided with one or more horizontally extending fixed or movable (retractable) support structures 300 or deck, to which equipment or tools, such as lifting equipment/cranes or similar, may be arranged stationary or movably in relation to the platform assembly 100. In this manner, the platform assembly 100 may be provided with tools or equipment for performing assembly or disassembly, maintenance or service of all components or main components as generator, gear, brake and blades of a wind turbine. E.g., the platform assembly 100 may be provided with means or tools for washing of blades, repairing of blades and disassembly assembly of blades.
In an alternative embodiment, the one or more horizontally extending support structure 300 extends over the entire upper surface of the platform assembly 100. According to yet a further embodiment of the present invention there is arranged a track or similar on the upper surface of the horizontally extending support structure 300 which enable equipment or tools arranged thereto to move in circumferential direction of the platform assembly 100.
In a further embodiment of the present invention, the horizontally extending support structure 300 is arranged movable to the platform assembly 100.
The present invention thus provides a platform assembly 100 that is adaptable as regards arrangement of equipment or tools for performing maintenance or work on the elongated structure 10 as well as connected elements away from the elongated structure by enabling the use of movable (retractable) or fixed support structures 300/horizontal working platforms.
Reference is now made to Fig. 7 showing a principle drawing of the controlling of the platform assembly 100.
Each drive unit 200 is provided with a control unit 400 provided with means and/or software for controlling the drive unit 200, i.e. controlling the movement of the drive unit 200 along the elongated structure 10, the engagement of the belts 210 with the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10 and the brake system, as described in more detail below.
The control unit 400 is provided with means and/or software for controlling the pressure force of the at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder 220 based on a pressure sensor 401 or friction sensor 402 to achieve a desired friction force for the belts 210 on the exterior surface of the elongated structure 10.
The control unit 400 is further provided with means and/or software for controlling the at least one hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder 251 of the brake system, both for activation and deactivation, as well as maintaining a constant distance of the at least one brake pad 250 based on readings from e.g. a distance sensor 403. The control unit 400 is adapted to control the brake system as described above.
The control unit 400 is further provided with means and/or software for controlling the at least one hydraulic or electric motor 213 to control the rotational movement of the belts 210 to move the platform assembly 100 upwards or downwards along the elongated structure 10.
The control unit 400 is further provided with wired or wireless communication device 404 for remote communication as well as communication with a control system 500 controlling the entire platform assembly 100.
The drive unit 200 is further provided with an energy supply 410, preferably in the form of one or more batteries, and further also a dedicated emergency back-up energy supply 420, preferably in the form of one or more batteries.
In an alternative embodiment the energy supply 410 and/or dedicated emergency back-up energy supply 420 may be shared by all the drive units 200 of the platform assembly 100.
The control system 500 is provided with means and/or software for supervisory controlling of all the drive units 200 for movement of the platform assembly 100 in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure 10. The control system 500 is connected to a user interface 510 wherein an operator may control the platform assembly 100 according to desired operation and wherein the control system 500 based on the desired operation provide the control units 400 of each drive unit 200 with settings/instructs such that the platform assembly 100 is moved accordingly. The control system 500 may further be arranged to retrieve status data from each drive 200 and display this on the user interface 510.
The control system 500 may further be provided with means and/or software for controlling equipment or tools arranged on the platform or horizontally extending support structures 300 or deck.
Features of the above described embodiments may be modified to form modified embodiments within the scope of the attached claims.
Modifications
Even though the present invention is related to a platform assembly for vertically extending structures, the principles of the present invention may also be used on non-vertical structures.
Claims (11)
1. Platform assembly (100) for vertically extending elongated structures (10), wherein the platform (100) is enclosing exterior surface of the elongated structure (10) in circumferential direction with a gap, which platform assembly (100) is adapted for movement in longitudinal direction of the elongated structure (10) by means of at least one integrated drive unit (200), characterized in that the drive unit (200) comprises an independent fail-safe brake system comprising at least one springloaded brake pad (250) designed to be activated by force of at least one spring for engagement with exterior surface of the elongated structure (10) and deactivated from engagement with the exterior surface of the elongated structure (10) by force of at least one hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder (251).
2. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the brake system is designed to maintain the at least one spring-loaded brake pad (250) at a constant distance from the exterior surface of the elongated structure (10) as the platform assembly (100) is moving upwards or downwards on the elongated structure (10).
3. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the brake system comprises at least one dump valve for rapid emptying of hydraulic fluid or air when the brake system is activated.
4. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the platform assembly (100) comprises at least one drive unit modules (120) comprising a drive unit (200) and at least two adaptive frame modules (110).
5. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that the platform assembly (100) comprises one or more support modules (130) comprising at least one roller unit (140) or that one or more of the adaptive frame modules (110) is provided with at least one roller unit (140).
6. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive unit (200) comprises means (260) for fixation to the elongated structure (10).
7. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that the fixation means (260) is formed by a self-drilling hydraulic or electromechanical locking bolt capable of drilling into the elongated structure (10) and locking the drive unit (200) and thus the platform assembly (100) to the elongated structure (10).
8. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive unit (200) comprises parallel belts (210) and is arranged in the drive unit module (120) by means of at least one hydraulic or electromechanical cylinder (220) enabling movement of the drive unit (200) in a perpendicular direction of the drive unit module (120) to frictional engagement with the exterior surface of the elongated structure (10).
9. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that the drive unit (200) comprises at least one cylinder or stay (240) adapted to pick up vertical load on the parallel belts (210).
10. Platform assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises one or more horizontally extending support structures (300) fixed or movably arranged to the platform assembly (100) for arrangement of equipment or tools for performing maintenance or work on the elongated structure (10) or connected to the elongated structure (10).
11. Platform assembly (100) according any preceding claim, characterized in that the platform assembly (100) is adaptable to elongated structures (10) of different geometries by using different numbers of adaptive frame modules (110) or adaptive frame modules (110) of different shape and/or size, and/or using different numbers of drive unit modules (120) and/or support modules (130).
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NO20211296A NO20211296A1 (en) | 2021-10-28 | 2021-10-28 | Platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NO20211296A NO20211296A1 (en) | 2021-10-28 | 2021-10-28 | Platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| NO20211296A1 true NO20211296A1 (en) | 2023-05-01 |
Family
ID=86546568
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NO20211296A NO20211296A1 (en) | 2021-10-28 | 2021-10-28 | Platform assembly for vertically extending elongated structures |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| NO (1) | NO20211296A1 (en) |
Citations (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2150913A (en) * | 1983-08-09 | 1985-07-10 | Hugh Kane | Self propelled carriage |
| US20130228397A1 (en) * | 2012-03-02 | 2013-09-05 | Tom D. Horn | Wind tower maintenance platforms and techniques |
| US20180154954A1 (en) * | 2015-08-21 | 2018-06-07 | Fachhochschule Aachen | System for traveling on a cylindrical or frustoconical surface |
-
2021
- 2021-10-28 NO NO20211296A patent/NO20211296A1/en unknown
Patent Citations (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2150913A (en) * | 1983-08-09 | 1985-07-10 | Hugh Kane | Self propelled carriage |
| US20130228397A1 (en) * | 2012-03-02 | 2013-09-05 | Tom D. Horn | Wind tower maintenance platforms and techniques |
| US20180154954A1 (en) * | 2015-08-21 | 2018-06-07 | Fachhochschule Aachen | System for traveling on a cylindrical or frustoconical surface |
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