18521256. METHODS OF JOINING BLADE COMPONENTS OF WIND TURBINE ROTOR BLADES USING POSITIONING ELEMENTS simplified abstract (GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY)

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METHODS OF JOINING BLADE COMPONENTS OF WIND TURBINE ROTOR BLADES USING POSITIONING ELEMENTS

Organization Name

GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

Inventor(s)

Ryan Eric Vogel of Greer SC (US)

James Robert Tobin of Simpsonville SC (US)

Lauren Laurer Watts of Lyman SC (US)

Collin McKee Sheppard of Greenville SC (US)

METHODS OF JOINING BLADE COMPONENTS OF WIND TURBINE ROTOR BLADES USING POSITIONING ELEMENTS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18521256 titled 'METHODS OF JOINING BLADE COMPONENTS OF WIND TURBINE ROTOR BLADES USING POSITIONING ELEMENTS

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a method of joining first and second blade components of a rotor blade of a wind turbine by aligning and securing corresponding positioning elements at the interface of the components to maintain a desired spacing between them.

  • Corresponding positioning elements are provided at the interface of the first and second blade components.
  • The first positioning element of the first blade component is aligned and secured with the second positioning element of the second blade component to temporarily secure the components together.
  • The desired spacing between the first and second blade components is maintained by the positioning elements.
  • The first and second blade components are permanently secured together while maintaining the desired spacing between them.

Potential Applications

This technology can be applied in the manufacturing and assembly of rotor blades for wind turbines.

Problems Solved

This method solves the problem of ensuring proper alignment and spacing between blade components during assembly, which is crucial for the performance and efficiency of the wind turbine.

Benefits

The method provides a reliable and efficient way to join rotor blade components, leading to improved overall performance and longevity of the wind turbine.

Potential Commercial Applications

The technology can be utilized by wind turbine manufacturers and companies involved in renewable energy production.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be traditional methods of joining rotor blade components, which may not provide the same level of precision and consistency as the method described in the patent application.

Unanswered Questions

How does this method compare to existing techniques for joining rotor blade components in terms of cost-effectiveness?

The article does not provide information on the cost-effectiveness of this method compared to existing techniques.

What are the environmental implications of using this technology in wind turbine production?

The article does not address the environmental impact of implementing this technology in wind turbine manufacturing processes.


Original Abstract Submitted

A method of joining first and second blade components of a rotor blade of a wind turbine includes providing corresponding first and second positioning elements at an interface of the first and second blade components. The method also includes aligning and securing the first positioning element of the first blade component with the second positioning element of the second blade component so as to temporarily secure the first and second blade components together. Further, the corresponding first and second positioning elements maintain a desired spacing between the first and second blade components. Moreover, the method includes permanently securing the first and second blade components together such that the desired spacing is maintained between the first and second blade components.