CN101614083B - Clamp, self-propelled climbing device and method for connecting clamp and tubular piece - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention discloses a clamp, a self-propelled climbing device comprising two clamps and a method for connecting a clamp and a tubular piece. In one embodiment, the invention discloses the clamp (1) for the tubular piece, particularly the thin-wall tubular piece such as a wind turbine tower (3). The clamp (1) comprises at least one clamping piece which is used as a friction pad (9) and suitable for clamping the tower (3) and at least one force applying piece which is used as a stiffener (16) and is flexible and strip-shaped, the stiffener is suitable for applying force on the friction pad (9) to force the friction pad(9) to clamp the tower(3), wherein the friction pad(9) and the stiffener(16) are suitable for applying uniform radial clamping force to the tower(3).

Description

The method of fixture, self-propelled climbing device and connecting clamp and tubular piece

The application be international filing date be on January 19th, 2005 Chinese application number be dividing an application of 2005800469329 " method of fixture, self-propelled climbing device and connecting clamp and tubular piece " patent applications by name.

Technical field

The present invention relates to fixture, comprise the self-propelled climbing device of two such fixtures and the method for connecting clamp and tubular piece.The invention particularly relates to, but not only relate to, for the method for the fixture of the thin-wall tubular piece as wind turbine tower and connecting clamp and such thin-wall tubular piece.

Background technology

As everyone knows, pipeline is for delivery of the tubular-shaped structures of fluid in all trades and professions.In oil and gas exploration production industry, conventionally at submarine laying pipeline, for the fluid of hydrocarbon-containiproducts is carried to disembarkation from sea.In pipe laying work, must lay to the process of deployment in seabed and support and fixed-piping from pipe laying boats and ships.This is to accomplish by the fixture with friction pad, and friction pad to be cannot the axially movable mode of relative duct size being locked, and by apply direct pressure on friction pad overlay area, friction pad and pipeline is linked up.

The object of this fixture is to apply clamping force in large as far as possible pipeline girth part, to avoid ellipse by the unstable change causing or to flatten.U.S. Patent Bulletin number 2002/0009333 (Willie this and Oswald Turnbull) discloses a kind of fixture, it comprises a plurality of radial oriented pistons, corresponding rigidity boots piece and friction shoe are housed on each piston, boots piece has the constant arcwall face of constant-radius and this arcwall face is pressed against on pipeline, friction shoe is arranged on boots piece surface, for strengthening the tack with pipeline.When being put into work, piston boots piece is substantially around pipeline.

Although this fixture has effectively limited the pipeline with known fixed outer diameter, the pipeline of different-diameter need to have the fixture of different boots piece sizes.Therefore, this fixture is unsuitable for being used in conjunction with the tubular piece of different-diameter.

In addition,, although fixture boots piece has effectively avoided such pipeline become ellipse or flatten, they cannot apply around pipeline girth the radial load of basic uniformity.This is that and upper at the boots piece point (upwards spaced apart in pipeline week) that is leaving piston axis, piston applies smaller power because radial oriented piston applies maximum radial force to pipeline being parallel in the direction of piston axis.This finally causes around pipeline girth, occurring different local loads on pipeline.

The pipeline that utilizes such fixture to lay generally has the diameter of 0.150 meter to 0.6 meter and the diameter wall ratio between 10 and 20, and therefore above-mentioned pipeline is quite firm., in wind turbine tower, diameter is general remarkable is greater than above-mentioned size, and tower dwindles gradually to top.In fact, current most turbine tower has approximately 4 meters to the tower top diameter of diameter at the bottom of the tower of 5 meters and approximately 2.5 meters to 3 meters, and the diameter wall ratio between 165 and 295.And current turbine tower has the tower top girth of girth at the bottom of the tower of 15.7 meters and 8 meters, this has differed 7.7 meters.Following tower may have diameter at the bottom of the tower of approximately 11 meters, and is tapered to the tower top diameter of 3 meters.Therefore, such tower girth will change between approximately 34.5 meters and 9.5 meters, and difference reaches 25 meters.

Thereby compare with pipeline, the wall of wind turbine tower is quite thin, so wind turbine tower cannot keep its circularity when girth bears different loads, and then is inevitably easy to occur local bending and flattens.In fact, this has brought trouble in the transportation of wind turbine tower, because tower section can be crooked ellipse with change, this has mentioned in 331 (Wo Ben) in US Patent No. 6,592.For this reason and tower from convergent at the bottom of tower to tower top, so can not use fixture type, that there is the constant boots piece of constant-radius described in 2002/0009333 on wind turbine tower.

Deutsche Bundespatent notification number DE19647515 (Otto) discloses a kind of machinery adopting in the construction of wind turbine.The mode that this machinery is used to one folded one is assembled into tower by wind turbine tower section, and subsequently power unit head is installed on tower top.

Put it briefly, this machinery comprises fixing rigidity arc foot, and this arc foot connects with tower and utilizes the lifting appliance being attached thereto to climb along tower., the connecting mode of this foot and tower occurs changing around the tower load (point load) in tower week by causing, and this connecting mode cannot bear such load as mentioned above.In fact, this machinery cannot apply to turbine tower the radial load of uniformity, and may in use occur local bending.

For example, in an embodiment of DE19647515, the foot of this machinery bundles by many ropes and tower, and rope stretches out around tower from fixture and is tightened up by the hydraulic piston being arranged on foot.When piston start, the load being applied on tower by foot and rope is not the radial load of uniformity, there will be load change, result, and circularity is lost and is occurred that part bends.

In addition, when using DE19647515 mechanical, the deadweight of lifting appliance and the external load (as tower section) even being carried by this machinery will produce contilever load, and this contilever load is passed to tower by this foot.Contilever load will cause local counteractive radial load in tower, also cause circularity to be lost and local bending.

In addition, even if tower can bear such contilever load, but the large weight requirement of this machinery applies powerful clamping force to tower, and result, may occur that the integral body of tower structure is damaged.

Summary of the invention

One of object of the embodiment of the present invention is avoid or alleviate at least one defect in above-mentioned defect.

According to an aspect of the present invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, this fixture comprises: at least one clamping element, is suitable for clamping tubular piece; The elongated shape force-applying piece that at least one is pliable and tough, is suitable for the clamping element application of force to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece; Wherein, clamping element and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture.

The radial clamping power that applies basic uniformity contributes to produce the circumferential stress of basic uniformity in tubular piece.This has overcome the problem relevant with other machinery to existing fixture by being avoided or at least reducing along the load change of tubular piece girth, and the possibility of local bending appears in Avoids or reduces thus.People will recognize, the radial clamping power that tubular piece is applied to basic uniformity refers to that along tubular piece girth, to the tubular piece surface application of force, the sensing of this power is along the radius of tubular piece, and this power is basic uniformity along tubular piece girth.Radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture, this is because when fixture bears external load, there is no or substantially do not cause the increase and decrease of clamping force.In addition, the structure of fixture is such, and force-applying piece and other power partition are opened, and especially opens with the external load partition being applied on fixture.

People also will recognize, tubular piece refers to hollow unit or hollow-core construction at this, and it is generally the elongate member of thin-walled, as wind turbine tower.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, this fixture comprises: at least one clamping element, is suitable for clamping tubular piece; A plurality of pliable and tough elongated shape force-applying pieces, be suitable for being tightened up so that at least one clamping element application of force, to force clamping element, clamp tubular piece, clamping element and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture; Wherein, described a plurality of force-applying piece is suitable in a direction of the main shaft along tubular piece spaced apart, one of them force-applying piece is suitable for being tightened up applying a circumferential pulling force that points to this tubular piece, and applying circumferentially of this pulling force applies circumferential contrary with the pulling force of another force-applying piece in described a plurality of force-applying pieces.

Pliable and tough elongated shape force-applying piece contributes to apply the radial load of basic uniformity, and then in tubular piece, produces the circumferential stress of uniformity.But, may in force-applying piece, there is tension variations along the length of force-applying piece, this is to be caused by the friction between force-applying piece and tubular piece surface.In fact, the inventor has been found that pulling force in force-applying piece may be maximum on the position that approaches most pulling force application point (force-applying piece is tightened up by mechanisms such as capstan winches conventionally), along force-applying piece length, reduces leaving in the direction of the point of application.When the application of force by with another force-applying piece circumferentially upwards applies pulling force contrary tubular piece week and strains at least one of them force-applying piece, the tension variations in force-applying piece causes, fixture is applied to the variation of the radial load (and then caused circumferential stress) in tubular piece and can avoids or at least reduce.

Force-applying piece can have first end and the second end, and it is coupled, fastening or fixing that one end is wherein suitable for the braced structures of relative fixture, and the other end is suitable for connecting for straining the similar means of force-applying piece with capstan winch etc.By applying pulling force on the contrary end in the force side with another force-applying piece, one of them force-applying piece can be tightened up.So, the first end of one of them force-applying piece can be tightened up, to within first week in tubular piece, upwards produce pulling force, and corresponding second end of another force-applying piece can be tightened up, so as tubular piece, with above-mentioned first circumferentially contrary second week upwards produce pulling force.People will appreciate that, some force-applying pieces can be tightened up in a first direction, and other force-applying piece can be tightened up in second direction.For example, axially adjacent a plurality of force-applying pieces can be tightened up on contrary both direction.Or a pair of (or multipair) axially adjacent force-applying piece can be tightened up on to the contrary direction of perhaps adjacent force-applying piece with another.Or the two ends of a plurality of force-applying pieces may all be suitable for being tightened up.

According to another aspect of the present invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, this fixture comprises: at least one clamping element, is suitable for clamping tubular piece; A plurality of pliable and tough elongated shape force-applying pieces, be suitable for being tightened up so that at least one clamping element application of force of reach, to force clamping element, clamp tubular piece, each force-applying piece is suitable for extending and being suitable in an isolated direction along tubular piece main shaft overlapping along tubular piece girth, clamping element and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture; Wherein, the cross over point of one of them force-applying piece is suitable for along the cross over point of relative another force-applying piece of tubular piece girth spaced apart.

As mentioned above, may in force-applying piece, there is tension variations along force-applying piece length.But, along tubular piece girth, cross over point is spaced from each other, this contributes to reduce the variation of the total radial load in tubular piece, and then reduces caused circumferential stress variation.People will recognize, in the situation that suitably locating force-applying piece around fixture, the cross over point of force-applying piece is spaced apart along tubular piece girth.The cross over point of force-applying piece may be suitable for along tubular piece girth spaced apart equally spacedly.For example, in the situation that fixture comprises two force-applying pieces, cross over point can be spaced apart with 180 degree along tubular piece girth, and in the situation that fixture comprises three force-applying pieces, cross over point can be spaced apart with 120 degree.Fixture can comprise a plurality of force-applying pieces with identical cross over point, and for example a pair of axially adjacent force-applying piece can have identical cross over point, and this cross over point may in week, upwards another cross over point to adjacent force-applying piece be spaced apart relatively.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, fixture comprises four pairs of such force-applying pieces, and the cross over point of force-applying piece is spaced apart with 90 degree along tubular piece girth in pairs.This may contribute to tubular piece to apply the radial load of basic uniformity, and guarantees that fixture has minimum size and weight simultaneously.In an alternative, axially adjacent force-applying piece can have along circumferential separated cross over point.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, fixture comprises: a plurality of clamping elements, are suitable for clamping tubular piece; The elongated shape force-applying piece that at least one is pliable and tough, is suitable for described a plurality of clamping element application of forces to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece; Wherein, each clamping element is suitable for being positioned between tubular piece and force-applying piece, and described a plurality of clamping elements and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture.

By clamping element being positioned between tubular piece and force-applying piece, each clamping element can be biased part and exert pressure according to identical degree.This may contribute to produce the radial load of uniformity in tubular piece, and don't can cause clamping element tubular piece to be applied to the point load that can cause local bending, no matter is when fixture is positioned in tubular piece, or fixture is while in use bearing external load.

Force-applying piece can be suitable for extending along tubular piece girth, thereby extends around rear (tubular piece relatively) surface of clamping element, surrounds thus this tubular piece.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, fixture comprises: at least one clamping element, is suitable for clamping tubular piece; The elongated shape force-applying piece that at least one is pliable and tough, be suitable for the clamping element application of force to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece, clamping element and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture; Braced structures, its relative clamping element so connects, and in use, is applied to locational external load braced structures, that laterally leave tubular piece main shaft and causes clamping element in tubular piece, to produce reaction force substantially vertically.

By making in such a way the relative clamping element of braced structures connect, be applied to locational external load (contilever load) braced structures, that laterally leave tubular piece main shaft and cannot in clamping element or around clamping element, produce moment.This has been avoided or has at least reduced in tubular piece, producing counteractive radial point load because of external load.

In addition, braced structures does not have resistance to be applied to the radial clamping power in tubular piece.This is for example completely different with the machinery described in DE19647515, and in DE19647515, foot must bear with piston the top load of passing to wind turbine tower, and this requires the foot must be greatly also thereby quite heavy, and this brings relevant defect.

In the structure of machinery described in the fixture of prior art and picture DE19647515, contilever load is applied in tubular piece, and contilever load is radially subject to the reaction of tower, and this causes occurring load change along tubular piece girth, finally causes local bending.Fixture can comprise many clamping elements.Provide a braced structures connecting with a plurality of clamping elements in this manner effectively to make clamping element interrelated, the radial reaction force of avoiding thus or at least reducing to produce in tubular piece, this radial reaction force is to produce when externally load is applied on position fixture, that laterally leave tubular piece main shaft.Especially, when contilever load is applied in braced structures (only at one end stressed), such radial reaction force is able to Avoids or reduces.This is because the sensing of the power applying when clamping element is complete or while being arranged essentially parallel to the main shaft of tubular piece, external load carries by the axial reaction force causing in tubular piece.This contributes to keep the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, and then in tubular piece, keeps the circumferential stress of basic uniformity.

Braced structures can be by mechanisms such as pin connector, spherojoints relative to clamping element to rotate or the mode of pivotable connects, this may contribute to transmit the load on clamping element in a direction that is parallel to tubular piece main shaft, but this can substantially stop and to clamping element, transmits radial load because of external load.

That braced structures can comprise is related with clamping element, for clamping element is applied to detent force so that the support member of relative tubular piece location clamping element, wherein in use, by support member, being applied to detent force on clamping element forces clamping element to be disengaged before clamping tubular piece at force-applying piece.Support member can be with the framework of braced structures to rotate or the mode of pivotable connects, to help the location of clamping element.Support member can be fixed according to the mode that cannot rotate relative to framework, and to allow framework carrying external load, thereby support member is can be before fixture is used to carry external load locked or limit.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, fixture comprises: at least one clamping element, is suitable for clamping tubular piece; The elongated shape force-applying piece that at least one is pliable and tough, be suitable for the clamping element application of force to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece, clamping element and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture; Wherein, this force-applying piece is suitable for extending and overlapping in the isolated direction of the main shaft along this tubular piece around tubular piece girth, and this force-applying piece is suitable for being basically parallel to side on cross over point, tubular piece tangent line at one and extends upward and leave this cross over point.

Force-applying piece is suitable for being tightened up to the clamping element application of force.The part of force-applying piece from overlapping light to extend leave tubular piece, this contributes to fixture especially for the different tubular piece of diameter, even for straightening footpath tubular piece, this is because force-applying piece can be around the tubular piece within the scope of different-diameter.Force-applying piece is arranged to leave cross over point in a direction that is basically parallel to the tubular piece tangent line on this cross over point, and this contributes to this force-applying piece partly to apply the pulling force that its sensing is basically parallel to this tangent line.This surface or at least reduced to produce any moment in tubular piece, its reason is: the power of 1) leaving in the force-applying piece part of tubular piece in extension is basically parallel to tubular piece tangent line, but refer in the opposite direction, thereby the pulling force phase reciprocity law in these parts; 2) force-applying piece is so located around tubular piece and force-applying piece part substantially,, when force-applying piece is tightened up, does not have or almost in tubular piece, does not produce moment around.

Force-applying piece can extend upward and leave cross over point in contrary first direction and second party, and each above-mentioned direction is basically parallel to tubular piece tangent line.First direction and second direction can be spent to 10 degree and be preferably in 0 degree to 5 degree in 0 of tangent line, and should respective explanations term " substantially parallel ".

Clamping element can be positioned between tubular piece and force-applying piece, the cross over point of force-applying piece can be radially and the tubular piece external surface interval distance of 5 millimeters to 50 millimeters for example, be chosen as the distance of 10 millimeters to 20 millimeters, this distance is determined by the factors that comprises clamping element thickness.

Force-applying piece can extend to members such as rope sheave, pulleys from overlapping lighting, and extends therefrom to capstan winch etc. for straining the mechanism of force-applying piece.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, fixture comprises: at least one clamping element, is suitable for clamping tubular piece; With the related support member of clamping element, for clamping element is applied to detent force so that relative tubular piece location clamping element; The elongated shape force-applying piece that at least one is pliable and tough, be suitable for the clamping element application of force to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece, clamping element and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity thus, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture; Wherein, in use, by support member, be applied to detent force on clamping element and force clamping element to be disengaged before clamping tubular piece at force-applying piece.

Therefore, clamping element can relative tubular piece be located in the situation that clamping element is applied to detent force, and detent force was disengaged before tubular piece is applied to clamping force.This makes clamping element laminating tubular piece surface, prevent or the tubular piece that reduces to be brought by clamping element misalignment tubular piece on the variation of load.Thus one, this Avoids or reduces clamping element can in tubular piece, cause the possibility of the load change that easily causes local bending.

Fixture can comprise at least one pair of clamping element, they are suitable for locating and being linked to each other at work according to the mode of crossing over tubular piece diameter, thereby in use, being applied to locational external load fixture, that laterally leave tubular piece main shaft causes clamping element in tubular piece, to produce reaction force substantially vertically.By braced structures, can make clamping element be linked to each other at work, braced structures connects with clamping element and braced structures comprises and the related support member of each clamping element.

Support member can pivotable be connected on clamping element, and preferably, by spherojoint, this prevents transmitting torque between braced structures and clamping element.Or support member can connect by pin connector.Fixture also comprises the first support member and the second support member that is arm shape, each arm connects with clamping element pivotable, the first arm and the second arm are positioned at predetermined radial position for relative tubular piece surface by clamping element, and for be basically parallel to tubular piece surface or with tubular piece surface copline locate the clamping face of clamping element.

It should be noted, the connecting mode of support member and fixture can guarantee when fixture is put into work, in support member, there is no clamping force.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of fixture for tubular piece, fixture comprises: a plurality of flexible clamping elements, are suitable for clamping tubular piece; The elongated shape force-applying piece that at least one is pliable and tough, is suitable for a plurality of clamping element application of forces to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece; Wherein, described a plurality of clamping elements and force-applying piece are suitable for tubular piece to apply the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture, the size of described a plurality of clamping elements can be substantially around the girth of tubular piece.

By clamping element being dimensioned to substantially around tubular piece, the clamping force being applied in tubular piece can be adjusted by clamping element.According to this method, can form a substantially complete ring being formed by clamping element along the girth of tubular piece, contribute to tubular piece to apply uniform clamping force and reduce the possibility that generation can cause the tubular piece load change of local bending.

Tubular piece can be tapered along its length, thereby have the footpath of straightening.The size of clamping element can be chosen to be in the precalculated position along tubular piece length substantially around tubular piece, therefore can be configured to around certain or predetermined tubular piece girth.Tubular piece can be wind turbine tower, the predetermined work position that predetermined girth can be in fixture, and this can be such working depth,, in this working depth, fixture is positioned to carry out subsequently desirable operation.Operation can be maintenance activity or installation exercise, may involve tower and carry external load by fixture, for example when turbine components is removed so that when keeping in repair or reinstalling subsequently.

The size of clamping element may be adjustable and/or clamping element relatively the remainder of fixture releaseably connect, to help dismounting and with the replacing of standby clamping element.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a kind of assembly that comprises two fixtures that are coupled to each other by coupling is provided, coupling contributes to distance between alignment jig, to help assembly to advance along tubular piece length, each fixture comprises the fixture as any one limited in above aspect of the present invention.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of for being arranged on the self-propelled climbing device on tubular column, this climbing device comprises two fixtures that are coupled to each other by coupling, coupling contributes to adjust distance between fixture, to help climbing device to advance along the length of tubular column, each fixture comprises as the fixture as described in any one in above aspect of the present invention.

Tubular column is wind turbine tower preferably.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of method of connecting clamp and tubular piece, the method comprises the following steps: around tubular piece positioning fixture, fixture has at least one clamping element and at least one pliable and tough elongated shape force-applying piece; Tension force-applying piece, to the clamping element application of force, to force clamping element to clamp tubular piece, applies the radial clamping power of basic uniformity thus to tubular piece, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a kind of method of the tubular column that climbs is provided, comprise the following steps: a climbing device is provided, climbing device comprises upper fixture and the lower clamp being coupled to each other by adjustable coupling, and each fixture has at least one clamping element and at least one pliable and tough elongated shape force-applying piece; In the following manner upper fixture is fixed in tubular piece, the corresponding upper force-applying piece of tension is with to the clamping element application of force on each, force clamping element clamp tubular piece and thus tubular piece applied the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, this radial clamping power be applied to the external load onrelevant on fixture; In such a way lower clamp is fixed in tubular piece, the corresponding lower force-applying piece of tension, with to each time clamping element application of force, forces this clamping element to clamp tubular piece and thus this tubular piece is applied the radial clamping power of basic uniformity; Make fixture depart from tubular piece; Utilize adjustable coupling to increase distance between upper fixture and lower clamp, so that upper fixture advances along the length of tubular piece; Upper fixture is retightened in this tubular piece; Make lower clamp depart from tubular piece; Utilize adjustable coupling to shorten distance between upper fixture and lower clamp, so that lower clamp advances along the length of tubular piece; Lower clamp is retightened in tubular piece.

Define in the dependent claims further feature of the present invention.But people will appreciate that conventionally, the feature of at least one aspect in the above aspect of the present invention can exist in independent mode or in the mode of combination.

According to another aspect of the present invention, provide on a kind of external surface that one or more rubbing surfaces is clamped to tubular-shaped structures but do not damage the structure of tubular-shaped structures or the method on surface, its way is, utilization, according to the device of first aspect present invention, applies the radial load of basic uniformity to the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide on a kind of external surface that rubbing surface is clamped to thin-wall tubular structure but do not damage the method for structure or coating, its way is, so apply controlled radial load, the impact of the bending characteristic of tubular-shaped structures is equal to the radial load that whole girth is applied to basic uniformity, the maximum axial load of trying one's best can be applied to fixing fixture thus, and don't tubular-shaped structures bending can be caused because of the comprehensive function of axial load and radial load.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide a kind of one or more rubbing surfaces are clamped to the device on tubular-shaped structures, this device comprises around the framework of tower structure assembling and for move mechanism and the mechanism to described one or more rubbing surface application of forces of described one or more rubbing surfaces relative to framework.

This device preferably applies the radial load of basic uniformity to the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures.

This device preferably can adapt to along the perimeter change of tubular-shaped structures length and tapering variation.

Described one or more rubbing surface is preferably friction pad.

Described one or more rubbing surface preferably consists of metal material or synthetic materials.

Described one or more friction pad preferably has at least one surface consisting of natural friction material or elastic body friction material, and this surface is exposed to tubular-shaped structures.

Described one or more friction pad is preferably flexible and identical with the shape of tubular-shaped structures.

For move the mechanism of described one or more rubbing surfaces relative to framework, generally comprise one or more load arms.

Load arm movement in a first direction causes rubbing surface to touch tubular-shaped structures surface.The movement of load arm in contrary second direction causes rubbing surface to leave tubular-shaped structures surface.

Each or a plurality of load arm are preferably because hydraulic cylinder effect is moved.

Each rubbing surface preferably connects with a load arm.

Each friction pad has center ridge, and load arm connects with center ridge.

In one embodiment, for the mechanism that described one or more rubbing surfaces are applied to radial load, comprise one or more rib.Every rib is generally pliable and tough elongate member shape, and load can be applied on rib.

Rib can consist of as fibrecord, wire rope, webbing, chain or steel band suitable material.

Described one or more rib is preferably around the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures.

Conventionally, described one or more rib is around the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures, thereby friction surface is positioned between tubular-shaped structures surface and one or more rib.

The center ridge of each rubbing surface preferably has hole, and described one or more rib can pass this hole.

Each load arm preferably has at least one capstan winch, and capstan winch can be used to described one or more rib of tension.In the situation that tightening rib with capstan winch, radial load is applied on rubbing surface, thereby rubbing surface is crushed on tubular-shaped structures.

No matter how diameter and the cone angle of tubular-shaped structures change, preferably can between described one or more rubbing surfaces and tubular-shaped structures, keep close contact, its way is the lever system of being located by mechanical actuator by, and friction pad is deflection under the impact of the radial load being applied by described one or more rib thereupon.

In another embodiment, for the mechanism that described one or more rubbing surfaces are applied to radial load, comprise along circumferential row's linear actuators.

Preferably one arrange 12 or more linear actuators.

Optionally, linear actuators synergy, applies even load by the connecting rod being fixed on the framework of assembling around tubular-shaped structures to the one or more rubbing surfaces that distribute around tubular-shaped structures girth.

Or, linear actuators synergy, by direct radial displacement, to applying identical load around the equally distributed friction pad of tubular-shaped structures girth, this load is subject to around the reaction of the framework of tubular-shaped structures assembling.

In another embodiment, the mechanism that one or more rubbing surfaces is applied to radial load comprises capsule.

Capsule is preferably around tubular-shaped structures.

Capsule can be the tubulose of closed at both ends.

Can also be provided for changing the mechanism of the length of tubular capsule.Change mechanism's spool preferably of the length of tubular capsule.

The inside of capsule is pressurized by fluid.

An optional measure is, capsule consists of such material, the poisson's ratio of this material is high enough to make expanded radially can produce enough annular shortenings (for example means 1), thereby can adapt to the change of tubular-shaped structures girth by changing the geometry of capsule, and need not change the material usage for the capsule around tubular-shaped structures.

The external diameter of capsule preferably limits by framework, and this framework is assembled around tubular-shaped structures.

In yet another embodiment, for the mechanism that described one or more rubbing surfaces are applied to radial load, comprise one or more wedges, wedging action is in arm, connecting rod or piston, and arm, connecting rod or piston are disposed to make described one or more rubbing surface radially to shift to tubular-shaped structures surface.

Each rubbing surface also can connect with a keeper.This keeper is generally arm shape, and it is connected on that end center ridge, contrary with force-applying piece.Keeper preferably moves under the effect of hydraulic cylinder.

Angle between vertical guide and rubbing surface preferably can change by the movement of registration arm.

An optional measure is that lifting tool and manipulation tool can be installed on this device.

Optionally, can on this device, install and sit people's device.

Optionally, first device of the present invention can connect with the second device of the present invention by the linear actuators that is parallel to tubular-shaped structures axis, thereby first device and the second device can be separated from each other out or be furthered in the axial direction.

The motion of first device and the second device and clamp can harmony so mutually, thereby the linear movement that produces this assembly along the axis of this tubular-shaped structures.

First device and the second device can be used to be parallel to tubular-shaped structures axis and carry article.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide on a kind of external surface that one or more rubbing surfaces is clamped to tubular-shaped structures but do not damage the structure of tubular-shaped structures or the method on surface, its way is to utilize the device of second aspect the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures to be applied to the radial load of basic uniformity.

Conventionally, tubular-shaped structures is thin-walled.

Tubular-shaped structures can be wind turbine tower.

By the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures being applied to the radial load of basic uniformity, can advantageously larger axial load be applied on friction pad, and don't can make tubular-shaped structures bend because of the comprehensive function of axial load and radial load.

According to a further aspect of the invention, provide the method for a kind of raising for the axial carrying capacity of the friction clamp of wind turbine tower, its way is, improves the bend resistance ability of tower and there is no obviously to change the intrinsic frequency of tower.

The bend resistance ability of wind turbine tower is preferably by improving with interior reinforcing ring.

Interior reinforcing ring preferably consists of steel or plastics synthetic materials.

As optional feature, reinforcing ring can keep location by friction.Or reinforcing ring keeps location by adhesive or by welding.

Accompanying drawing explanation

Now, with reference to the following drawings only illustrative embodiments of the invention are described, wherein:

Fig. 1 is according to the phantom drawing of the fixture of the embodiment of the present invention, and as shown in the figure, fixture has been attached in the tubular piece that is wind turbine tower form;

Fig. 2 is the enlarged drawing of clamping element and one section of braced structures, a part for the fixture of its pie graph 1;

Fig. 3 is the enlarged drawing of clamping element and force-applying piece, a part for the fixture of force-applying piece pie graph 1;

Fig. 4 is the further enlarged drawing of clamping element shown in Fig. 3 and force-applying piece, for diagram consideration, summarizes and shows some parts;

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates the fixture of Fig. 1, and as shown in the figure, this fixture bears external load in use;

Fig. 6 represents to comprise the assembly of fixture shown in two Fig. 1 that are coupled to each other, and this assembly is the state in climbing along the length that is the tubular piece of wind turbine tower form as shown in the figure.

The specific embodiment

As described below, to compare with for the existing fixture of tubular piece and compare with the existing machinery of same thin-wall tubular piece especially wind turbine tower connection, apparatus and method of the present invention are brought remarkable advantage.

Referring to Fig. 1, a kind of fixture/clamping device 1 for tubular piece is shown, in the embodiment shown, tubular piece is the form of the wind turbine tower 3 of thin-walled taper.Fixture 1 comprises that at least one is suitable for clamping clamping element or the friction pad 9 of tower 3, more specifically shows clamping element or friction pad in the enlarged drawing of Fig. 2.Fixture 1 also comprises that at least one is rib elongated shape force-applying pieces 16 shapes, pliable and tough, more specifically shows this rib in the view of Fig. 3.Rib 16 is suitable for friction pad 9 application of forces, and to force friction pad 9 to clamp tower 3, thereby 16 pairs of tubular piece of friction pad 9 and rib apply the clamping force of basic uniformity.Friction pad 9 limits fixture 1 thus, and fixture cannot be moved by relative tower 3 in the direction along tower length, and result, can make tower 3 bear external load by fixture 1.

The circumferential stress that contributes to produce basic uniformity by the radial clamping power that 1 pair of tower 3 of fixture applies basic uniformity in tower.Owing to avoiding or having reduced along the load change of tubular piece girth at least as far as possible, so this has overcome the problem relevant with existing fixture and other machinery, eliminate thus or reduced to cause point load local bending, that change.

People also will recognize, method described herein has greatly been improved fixture performance, and this is because friction pad is applied to large as far as possible radial pressure by applying the radial load of uniformity, thereby the circularity of thin-wall tubular structure is maintained.These load are far above the ability of independent bearing pads at present used.

Specifically, fixture/clamping device 1 comprises braced structures 22, and this braced structures has lower ring 2, a plurality of column, pole or corner post 4 substantially rectangular, that assemble around 3 ends of tower and substantially rectangular upper ring beam 5.Upper ring beam 5 is generally fixed on column 4 at each place, angle, produces thus around space framework 6 tower 3, rigidity.The upper end of each column 4 connects with the load arm 7 of the first support member or rigidity, and as shown in Figure 2, the hydraulic cylinder 8 that this load arm is connected between column 4 and load arm 7 drives.

In preferred embodiment as shown in the figure, fixture 1 comprises four friction pads 9, and they arrange along tower for 3 weeks equally spacedly.Friction pad 9 all consists of compliance natural materials or elastic body friction material, for example neoprene or polyurethane, that friction pad is bonded in rigidity but flexible, metal sheet that can bearing load or synthetic materials plate be as on steel plate, and friction pad therein the heart there is the rigid central ridge 10 of setting.The upper end of each center ridge 10 is attached to the lower end of each load arm 7 by pin connector or spherojoint 24 pivotables.Compare preferred spheres joint with pin connector, this is because spherojoint contributes to transmit the load on clamping element in the direction that is parallel to tubular piece main shaft, but substantially stop, radial load is passed to clamping element because of external load.

Load arm 7 again pivotable is connected on column 4, and this connecting mode allows relative tower 3 pivotables of arm.By this arrangement, load arm 7 is connected with friction pad 9, detent force is applied on friction pad 9 helping, and thus one, the motion of load arm 7 makes each friction pad 9 approach and/or touch the surface of tower 3.Adaptation cone angle is also adjusted, or vertically locate in the surface of these permission friction pad 9 contact towers 3, if appropriate.

Braced structures 22 also comprises the second support member or the registration arm 11 being associated with each friction pad 9, and each registration arm 11 is connected on each column 4 by pivotable by connecting rod 13 and trunnion 26.In the lower end of center ridge 10 (at center ridge 10, connected with same load arm 7 that contrary end of link), registration arm 11 is also connected on friction pad 9 pivotly.The second hydraulic cylinder 12 is connected between column 4 and trunnion 26, thereby plays the effect of drive link 13.Therefore,, by making connecting rod cylinder 12 flexible, the angle between column 4 and friction pad 9 can be changed, to adapt to different tower cone angles.Can fully utilize load arm 7 and registration arm 11 and adjust the position of the relative tower 3 of friction pad 9, can adjust thus the variation that fixture 1 adapts to girth/diameter and the cone angle of tower 3.Therefore, this contributes to fixture 1 for having the tower of different-diameter, or even along the tower of its length convergent.

As shown in Figure 3, fixture comprises many ribs, comprises in the embodiment shown eight ribs 16, and every two ribs 16 are corresponding to a load arm 7 of fixture 1.Every rib 16 is tightened up by capstan winch 15 separately, and two such capstan winches 15 are installed on each load arm 7.This configuration structure allows the perimeter change of rib 16 compensation towers 3.Every rib 16 starts to extend from the anchor point load arm 7 or capstan winch 15, is passed in the passage 14 in the center ridge 10 of each friction pad 9, and returns to the capstan winch 15 on same load arm 7.So the starting point of two ribs 16 and terminal are all positioned on each load arm 7.

Every rib 16 around tower 3 weeks and along the length of tower 3 at cross over point 38 place's juxtapositions.As shown in the view of the further amplification of Fig. 4 is concrete, each friction pad 9 is between the surface and rib 16 of tower 3, and rib is overlapping or intersect in the center ridge 10 of the friction pad 9 connecting with each load arm 7, result, in the situation that rib is walked around the whole girth of tower 3, rib 16 contact towers 3 or friction pad 9.Rib is generally made by high-performance fiber rope, wire rope, webbing, chain or the steel band of low frictional properties.Be provided with pulley 17, for making rib 16 circumferentially move towards to go to anchor point and capstan winch 15 from it.

When capstan winch 15 tension rib 16,16 pairs of friction pad 9 application of forces of rib, force friction pad to clamp tower 3.Once fixture 1 firmly connects with tower 3, friction pad 9 just plays the effect that restriction fixture relative tower 3 axially moves, and produces as mentioned above a contact force, and this contact force provides enough frictions for effective axial load to be lifted.

In fact, rib 16 is arranged around the external surface of friction pad 9, thereby when rib is tightened up, rib pulls to tower 3 by friction pad, and friction pad 9 and the common radial clamping power that tower 3 is applied to basic uniformity of rib 16.This causes the load/stress of that reality can be accomplished, approximate real circumferential distribution in tower 3.

The clamping force that acts on tower 3 is disengaged when capstan winch 15 is emitted rib, removes thus or reduce rib 16 to be applied to the power on friction pad 9.Then, make cylinder 8,12 action so that load arm 7 and registration arm 11 and and then friction pad 9 leave tower 3.This motion drive is continued the rib 16 of emitting as required, result, and rib 16 can be pulled and leave tower surface.

The size of friction pad 9 be chosen to be can be near tower top or tower top the almost whole girth of contact tower 3, and in the position near at the bottom of tower, friction pad is separated from each other because tower diameter increases, as shown in Figure 1.

Below, the benefit that the method for work of further description fixture of the present invention and structure and fixture work bring.

As mentioned above, friction pad 9 is positioned between tower 3 and rib 16, and this makes each friction pad 9 be exerted pressure by rib 16 with identical degree.This contributes to produce the radial load of uniformity on tower 3, and can not cause 9 pairs of towers 3 of friction pad to apply, can not cause the local point load bending, no matter be when fixture 1 is arranged in tubular piece, or when fixture 1 in use bears external load.

As noticed from Fig. 1 to Fig. 4, fixture 1 comprises two pairs of friction pads 9, and every pair of friction pad is crossed over the diameter of tubular piece, thereby each friction pad 9 is spaced apart with an angle of 90 degrees.When each friction pad 9 pivotables are connected on load arm 7 and when load arm 7 pivotables are connected on corner post 4, friction pad 9 by braced structures 22 with the contact that interacts of axial matching method.The radial reaction force that this is avoided or has at least reduced to produce in tower 3 when external load A is applied in (contilever load) on some fixture 1, that laterally leave tubular piece main shaft 32, as shown in the schematic diagram of Fig. 5 of the fixture in using as represented.When using the equipment lifting load-carryings such as lifting appliance that are connected with fixture 1 as one section of tower 3, such load A can be applied on fixture 1, for example, in the construction of tower 3 or the process of maintenance.

This is because external load A produces axial force F 1 and F2 in friction pad 9, causes reaction force thus in tower 3, and the sensing of this reaction force is parallel to the main shaft 32 of tower 3.So friction pad 9 applied forces are pointed to the direction that is parallel to tower main shaft 32 completely or substantially.This axial pairing contributes to keep the radial clamping power of basic uniformity, keeps thus the circumferential stress of basic uniformity in tower.

And as mentioned above, clamp rib 16 and be tightened up with to friction pad 9 application of forces, produce thus the radial clamping power of uniformity.As shown in Figure 4, the part 34,36 of every rib starts to extend upward in the side that is basically parallel to tangent line T tower 3, on this cross over point from the cross over point 38 of tower 3.By this arrangement, when operation capstan winch 15 is strained rib 16, rib 16 is applied to the pulling force that its sensing is basically parallel to this tangent line.

This is avoided or has at least reduced in tower, producing any moment, and reason is: a) in the power of stretching from rib 16 parts 34,36 of tower 3, be parallel to tangent line T, but both point on the contrary, thereby the pulling force phase reciprocity law in part 34,36; B) rib 16 can accomplish around tower 3, do not have or almost do not have moment to produce when rib 16 is tightened up around the locate mode of tower 3 and part 34,36 substantially.For the ease of accomplishing this point, unfertile land is made friction pad 9 as far as possible, so that the surface of cross over point 38 as far as possible close towers 3.For this reason, the thickness of friction pad 9 can, between 5 millimeters to 50 millimeters, be generally 10 millimeters to 20 millimeters.And all try one's best near the back side of friction pad 9, to can make rib part 34,36 locate to be basically parallel to the mode of tower tangent line T in the location of a plurality of lower sheaves 40.

But, although make rib part 34,36 leave cross over point 38 in the direction that is basically parallel to tower tangent line T, meet hope, but should be realized that, these ribs part can be positioned in 0 to 10 degree scope of tangent line for example, and has still played the effect that produces the radial load of basic uniformity on tower 3.

In addition, people will recognize, may in rib 16, occur tension variations along rib length, and this is to be caused by the friction between rib 16 and the surface of tower 3.In fact, inventor has been found that the pulling force in rib 16 may be the highest in the position of the most close pulling force application point (capstan winch 15), and reduces leaving in the direction of the point of application along the length of rib 16.

Thereby some ribs 16 are tightened up when other rib being applied to contrary two the circumferential pulling force that point to tower 3.So the variation (cause thus circumferential stress change) that, is applied to the radial load on tower 3 by fixture 1 can be avoided or at least be reduced because of the tension variations in rib 16.

In order to accomplish this point, rib 16 is tightened up by applying pulling force in opposite end.So wherein the first end of a rib 16 is tightened up, at the pulling force that upwards produces for first week of tower 3, corresponding second end of another root rib 16 is tightened up thus, thus tower 3, with first circumferentially contrary second week upwards produce pulling force.For example, the every pair rib 16 associated with respective arms 7 can upwards be tightened up first week of tower, and axially the paired rib 16 of adjacent (tower axis 32 relatively) is upwards being tightened up on the contrary in week.As a result, compensated the load change of each rib 16.In another embodiment, axially adjacent rib 16 can upwards be tightened up in contrary two week.Thereby that associated with each arm 7 can be tightened up rib 16 on contrary both direction.

In addition, the cross over point 38 of many ribs 16 is opened along tower weekly interval, to reduce to act on the variation of total radial load of tower 3, reduces thus caused circumferential stress and changes.In an illustrated embodiment, relatively adjacent that cross over point to rib 16 of the cross over point 38 of the paired rib 16 associated with each load arm 7 is spaced apart.Specifically, the cross over point 38 of rib 16 was opened with the spacing equi-spaced apart of an angle of 90 degrees along tower week in pairs.The radial load (due to balance any variation in a plurality of adjacent rib 16 scopes) that this contributes to tower to apply basic uniformity guarantees that fixture 1 has minimum dimension and weight simultaneously.In a flexible program, axially the cross over point of adjacent rib 16 can be opened along tower 3 weekly intervals according to similar mode.

In addition, as mentioned above, in the situation that friction pad 9 is applied to detent force, the relative tower of friction pad 93 location.This detent force was disengaged before tower is applied to clamping force, and this clamping force makes the surface of friction pad 9 laminating towers 3 and prevents or reduce the tower load change along tower week, and its way is to prevent that friction pad 9 from not aiming at the surface of tower 3.This Avoids or reduces friction pad 9 produce and may cause tower 3 local bending, inhomogeneous consistent point loads.

And, the size of friction pad 9 be selected as can be roughly around the predetermined circumference of tower.This girth may be the girth on desirable fixture 1 operating position, and this operating position can be positioned at fixture 1 in this working depth as requested in such working depth, to carry out subsequently desirable operation.Operation can be maintenance activity or installation exercise, and may relate to and make tower 3 bear external load by fixture 1, for example, when the building block of turbine is removed to keep in repair or is again loaded onto subsequently.

Therefore, people will recognize, the clamping force being applied on this position of tower 3 is adjusted by friction pad 9.So, around tower, within 3 weeks, forming a substantially complete ring being formed by friction pad 9, this contributes to tower to apply the clamping force of a uniformity and reduce the possibility that generation can cause tower 3 load change of local bending.

In addition, once in operating position and fixture also do not bear any external load, the braced structures 22 of fixture 1 is just effectively locked, its way is, once rib 16 has forced friction pad 9 to clamp tower 3, just with cylinder 8 lock arms 7.As a result, make fixture 1 can bear contilever load, and any ingredient that can not cause framework 6 as above ring beam 5 touch tower 3.But, the connection of the pivotable between load arm 7 and friction pad 9 has guaranteed just or has been mainly that axial load is delivered to friction pad 9.

This also has the relative tower of the framework of making 63 and forms leg-of-mutton effect, as the clearest in Fig. 5 shown in, help in friction pad 9, to produce axial force F 1, F2 also produces axial reaction force thus in tower 3.

Referring now to Fig. 6,, the assembly that is self-propelled climbing device 28 forms coordinates with tower 3 as shown in the figure, and Fig. 6 shows climbing device and advances along the length of tower 3.Climbing device 28 comprises two fixtures 18,19, and the structure of these two fixtures is similar to the fixture 1 shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 with working method.Fixture 18 and 19 is combined mutually by adjustable coupling 20, and this coupling comprises a plurality of linear actuatorss that help to adjust distance between these two fixtures 18 and 19, for climbing device is advanced along tower 3.Flexible box piece, feed screw nut, capstan winch and wire rope or other appropriate device that actuator 20 can be hydraulic actuator, operated by rack pinion drive unit.

More particularly, climbing device 28 is around tower 3 location, general near at the bottom of tower 30.Climbing device 28 is operated, and advances and climbs in the following manner along the length of tower 3.First, upper fixture 18 is by operation and connect with tower 3 in the manner described above thus.Actuator 20 is first in withdrawing form or withdrawing state, result, and between fixture 18 and 19, distance is relatively short.Then, lower clamp 19 is connected according to same way with tower 3, and make fixture 18 depart from towers 3, actuator 20 is stretched out and increase distance between fixture 18 and 19, make thus fixture 18 along the tower 3 length segment distance that advances.

Then, fixture 18 is connected again with tower 3, lower clamp 19 is departed from, actuator 20 is withdrawn and dwindle distance between fixture 18 and 19.This causes lower clamp 19 along the tower 3 length one section of corresponding distance of advancing.Then, lower clamp 19 is connected again with tower 3, so climbing device 28 is along the tower certain distance that upwards climbed.

Repeatedly carry out this process, until climbing device 28 arrives predetermined working depth, on the both allocations along tower 3 length.So, fixture 18 and 19 is all clamped on tower and locked, by each fixture 18 and the 19 pairs of towers, apply the work clamping force of increase.This work clamping force is greater than applied force when climbing device 28 climbs tower 3.The clamping force increasing is to produce by applying larger pulling force with 15 pairs of ribs 16 of capstan winch.The reason of doing is like this that, when climbing device 28 climbs along tower 3, this climbing device only need to apply a clamping force that is enough to make climbing device 28 and tower tight joint, to carry climbing device weight.But, when an external load from climbing device 28 is born in hope, need higher clamping force to guarantee there is enough large frictional force between friction pad 9 and the surface of tower 3, to keep the location of climbing device 28.The size of clamping force depends on the weight of fixture 1/ climbing device 28 and the load that will carry, and it is set to 5 times of possible airlift conventionally, supposes that the friction factor between friction pad 9 and the surface of tower 3 is approximately 0.2.So climbing device 28 can be used in the building course and maintenance activity of tower, for carrying additional tower section or other turbine components.For the ease of accomplishing this point, in the braced structures of a fixture 18,19 or these two fixtures, the devices such as suitable platform, lifting appliance are installed therein.

Briefly say, device described here allows rubbing surface or friction pad to be clamped to thin-wall tubular structure as on wind turbine tower, and does not cause this malformation or damage.This is to accomplish by applying controlled radial load, thereby the impact of the bending characteristic of tubular-shaped structures is equivalent to the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures to apply the situation of the radial load of basic uniformity.

In Fig. 1 to Fig. 5, described and how rubbing surface 9 has been applied axial load and can apply to the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures a mode of the radial clamping power of basic uniformity.

In an alternative embodiment, Yan Tazhou is provided with annular balloon, and friction pad is placed between the external surface of Nang Heta.By the fluid in capsule, apply radial load as air pressurized, to produce the radial load of uniformity on week and on friction pad at whole tower, so friction pad can be stressed in the axial direction.

Capsule can configure according to the tubulose of closed at both ends, and this Guan Congyi fixed point starts around tower and returns to this fixed point, and on this fixed point, pipe is winding on spool to allow along with tower shortens tower girth to top convergent.The pressurization of capsule is from fixed end, and spool is fixed in end opposite.

In the second alternative embodiment, capsule is by having the high poisson's ratio (ratio of the strain on added loading direction and strain perpendicular on this loading direction, the ratio of transverse contraction strain in other words and longitudinal stretching strain in tensile force direction) material, thereby it is subject to compression swelling to cause ring girth obviously to dwindle, avoided rolling spool need to be set, and be above-mentionedly subject to compression swelling to apply radial load to friction pad, described friction pad subsequently may be stressed in the axial direction.

In the 3rd alternative embodiment, on ring beam or framework, arrange that a row is provided the lever system of power by linear actuators or revolving actuator, thereby lever applies radial load to friction pad that subsequently may axially loaded.

In the situation that climbing device 28 will bear sizable external load, may the causing in tower 3 than the larger deflection of institute's energy safe bearing load for generation of enough required pulling force of clamping force of rib 16.In other words, the load that can apply may be subject to the restriction of the full ability bending of opposing of tower 3, and now tower is in being derived from the radial load of clamping element 9/ rib 16 and potential being derived under climbing device deadweight or the suspention compressive load of load-carrying or the comprehensive function of shear-type load thereon.This ability of tower 3 can by tower, fixture installs reinforcing ring on the position of radial pressure and improves applying.Described reinforcing ring can consist of quite light T shape bar, and T shape bar is so wound into annular, is combined to form an equivalent beam with adjacent tower shell.T shape bar can and be preferably fixed and be put in place by the bonding by adhesive by welding.This will form a part for the building course of tower 3.On thicker part divides, vertically lath will be installed according to the mode of being opened by equally-spaced around part tower 3, that do not covered by friction pad 9.This will guarantee that the radial load being applied by rib 16 is delivered to interior ring reinforcement and passes to tower shell from interior ring reinforcement.

So these instruments can be on land or be used to the maintenance of wind turbine on oceans.

The intrinsic advantage of fixture 1 of the present invention and self-propelled climbing device 28 is, its can clamp have different-diameter, its cone angle can be from parallel 5 degree or the higher tower of changing to.Especially, this self-propelled climbing device can be suitable for tolerance the situation of girth and tapering variation along the length of tubular-shaped structures.In embodiment as shown in the figure, capstan winch 15 can be used to tension around the rib 16 of tubular-shaped structures, thereby rib length can change, and makes thus rib keep suitable radial load to act on tubular-shaped structures, even if the diameter of tubular-shaped structures or girth change.In adopting the embodiment of capsule, spool can be set, it allows the girth of capsule to increase and decrease to adapt to its girth.Or capsule can be made by the material with high poisson's ratio, just do not needed spool thus.

This device also can be clamped ultra-thin tower when rib applies the load of basic uniformity to the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures, and don't can cause bending.Method and apparatus described here can make large as far as possible load be applied on fixing fixture, and don't can cause because of the comprehensive function of axial load and radial load tubular-shaped structures bending.Therefore, the present invention is specially adapted to wind turbine tower.

Do not exceeding in the situation that the spirit and scope of the invention of this proposition, can add other modification and improvement.

Claims (28)

1. one kind is clamped to the device on tubular-shaped structures by one or more rubbing surfaces, this device comprises that this device is suitable for the whole girth of tubular-shaped structures to apply the radial load of basic uniformity around the framework of tower structure assembling, for move mechanism and the mechanism to described one or more rubbing surface application of forces of described one or more rubbing surfaces relative to framework.

2. device according to claim 1, is characterized in that, described one or more rubbing surfaces are friction pad.

3. device according to claim 2, is characterized in that, described one or more friction pads consist of metal material or synthetic materials.

4. device according to claim 2, is characterized in that, described one or more friction pads have at least one surface consisting of natural friction material or elastic body friction material, and this surface is exposed to tubular-shaped structures.

5. according to the device described in any one in claim 2 to 4, it is characterized in that, described one or more friction pads are flexible and coincide with the shape of tubular-shaped structures.

6. according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 4, it is characterized in that, for move the described mechanism of described one or more rubbing surfaces relative to framework, comprise one or more load arms.

7. device according to claim 6, it is characterized in that, the movement in a first direction of this load arm causes and makes rubbing surface touch the surface of tubular-shaped structures, and the movement of this load arm in contrary second direction causes above-mentioned rubbing surface to leave the surface of tubular-shaped structures.

8. device according to claim 6, is characterized in that, each in described one or more load arms moves by the effect of hydraulic cylinder.

9. according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 4, it is characterized in that, for described one or more rubbing surfaces being applied to the described mechanism of radial load, comprise one or more rib.

10. device according to claim 9, is characterized in that, every rib is pliable and tough elongate member shape, and load can be applied on rib.

11. devices according to claim 9, is characterized in that, rib is made by wire rope.

12. devices according to claim 9, is characterized in that, described one or more rib is around the whole girth of described tubular-shaped structures, thereby this rubbing surface is positioned between the surface and described one or more rib of tubular-shaped structures.

13. devices according to claim 9, is characterized in that, described one or more rubbing surfaces are supported in the center ridge with hole, and described one or more rib can pass this hole.

14. devices according to claim 9, is characterized in that, for described one or more rubbing surfaces being applied to the described mechanism of radial load, comprise at least one capstan winch, and this capstan winch can be used to described one or more rib of tension.

15. according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 4, it is characterized in that, for described one or more rubbing surfaces being applied to the described mechanism of radial load, comprises one or more linear actuatorss.

16. devices according to claim 15, is characterized in that, are provided with a plurality of linear actuatorss, and their synergy apply even load with the connecting rod by being fixed on framework to the described one or more rubbing surfaces that distribute around tubular-shaped structures girth.

17. devices according to claim 16, is characterized in that, are provided with a plurality of linear actuatorss, their synergy, to described one or more rubbing surfaces are applied to even load by direct radial displacement, this load is subject to the reaction of framework.

18. devices according to claim 15, is characterized in that, described linear actuators comprises capsule.

19. devices according to claim 18, is characterized in that, described capsule is around described tubular-shaped structures.

20. according to the device described in claim 18 or 19, it is characterized in that, described capsule comprises the pipe of termination sealing.

21. devices according to claim 20, is characterized in that, are provided with for changing the mechanism of the length of described capsule pipe.

22. devices according to claim 21, is characterized in that, for changing the described mechanism of the length of described capsule pipe, are spools.

23. devices according to claim 18, is characterized in that, the external diameter of described capsule is determined by framework, and this framework is assembled around tubular-shaped structures.

24. according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 4, it is characterized in that, for described one or more rubbing surfaces being applied to the described mechanism of radial load, comprise one or more wedges, this wedging action is in arm, connecting rod or piston, and this arm, connecting rod or piston are disposed to make described one or more rubbing surface radially to shift to tubular-shaped structures surface.

25. according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 4, it is characterized in that, at least one in described one or more rubbing surfaces connects with registration arm, and the angle between vertical guide and rubbing surface changes by the movement of registration arm.

26. devices according to claim 25, is characterized in that, this registration arm moves under the effect of hydraulic cylinder that is attached to described device.

27. 1 kinds of climbing devices, comprise first device and the second device, described first device is according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 26, described the second device is according to the device described in any one in claim 1 to 26, described first device connects with described the second device by the linear actuators that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of tubular-shaped structures, thereby this first device and the second device can be separated from each other out or be furthered in the axial direction.

Method on 28. 1 kinds of external surfaces that one or more rubbing surfaces are clamped to tubular-shaped structures, the method comprise around tower structure assembling frame, relative to this framework move described one or more rubbing surface and to described one or more rubbing surface application of forces so that this rubbing surface is clamped on this tubular-shaped structures.