A bracket assembly for securing a tower section to a deck includes a lower support bracket, columns, and a pair of upper upper support brackets, which all have vertical plates with circular apertures. Each circular aperture spans at least two tower flange bolt holes. Attachment yokes are inserted into the circular apertures, and each have at least two bolt apertures, which match the bolt holes size and spacing. The yokes are rotated to align the holes for insertion of bolts. Specific yokes are provided to fit various tower sizes. The brackets can be stacked, and the yoke arrangement substantially reduces bolt torque requirements.
A system and method are used for transporting a plurality of tower sections of a wind turbine on beds of transport devices, such as flat railcars. Supports affix at support locations on beds to accommodate at least one of the tower sections on each of the transport devices. The supports can include bed supports, such as tabs, extending from the beds, and can include cradle supports with slots that engage on the tabs. A circumferential dimension of a cradle is adjusted on each of the supports against which the tower section rests. Each of the tower sections is then supported with at least two of the supports by loading the tower sections on the transport devices. An end of each of the tower sections is then affixed to a flange on at least one of the supports on each of the transport devices.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
E04H 12/00 - TowersMasts or polesChimney stacksWater-towersMethods of erecting such structures
E04H 12/34 - Arrangements for erecting or lowering towers, masts, poles, chimney stacks, or the like
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
An articulated support fixture for a wind turbine blade includes a base frame with first and second bearing slide areas and first and second bearing blocks disposed to slide thereabout, each bearing block including a laterally oriented bearing. A fixture mount with a laterally oriented axle engages the laterally oriented bearings enabling the fixture mount to articulate about the lateral axle. The first and second bearing slide areas are configured to enable the first and second bearing blocks, together with the fixture mount, to slide along a generally longitudinal path, and to enable rotation of the fixture mount about a vertical axis as the first and second bearing blocks cooperatively slide upon the first and second bearing slide areas. A wind turbine blade interface is attached to the fixture mount, to enable engagement with, and support of, the wind turbine blade.
A system and method are used for transporting a plurality of tower sections of a wind turbine on beds of transport devices, such as flat railcars. Supports affix at support locations on beds to accommodate at least one of the tower sections on each of the transport devices. The supports can include bed supports, such as tabs, extending from the beds, and can include cradle supports with slots that engage on the tabs. A circumferential dimension of a cradle is adjusted on each of the supports against which the tower section rests. Each of the tower sections is then supported with at least two of the supports by loading the tower sections on the transport devices. An end of each of the tower sections is then affixed to a flange on at least one of the supports on each of the transport devices.
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
5.
TRANSIT BRACKET ASSEMBLY FOR WIND TURBINE TOWER SECTIONS
A bracket assembly for securing a tower section to a deck includes a lower support bracket, columns, and a pair of upper upper support brackets, which all have vertical plates with circular apertures. Each circular aperture spans at least two tower flange bolt holes. Attachment yokes are inserted into the circular apertures, and each have at least two bolt apertures, which match the bolt holes size and spacing. The yokes are rotated to align the holes for insertion of bolts. Specific yokes are provided to fit various tower sizes. The brackets can be stacked, and the yoke arrangement substantially reduces bolt torque requirements.
A bracket assembly for securing a tower section to a deck includes a lower support bracket, columns, and a pair of upper upper support brackets, which all have vertical plates with circular apertures. Each circular aperture spans at least two tower flange bolt holes. Attachment yokes are inserted into the circular apertures, and each have at least two bolt apertures, which match the bolt holes size and spacing. The yokes are rotated to align the holes for insertion of bolts. Specific yokes are provided to fit various tower sizes. The brackets can be stacked, and the yoke arrangement substantially reduces bolt torque requirements.
A railcar consist of flatcars for transporting continuous rail sections configured for top loading and end unloading of the rail sections. The consist includes a tie-down flatcar and plural support flatcars. The tie-down flatcar includes a rail securement rack with plural removable rail clamping shelves that facilitate top loading and clamping of the rail sections in place. Each of the plural support flatcars have a roller rack fixed to it. The roller racks include plural roller shelves with rollers to support the rail sections. The roller shelves are pivotally mounted to the roller racks between a loading position that provides clearance for placement of the rail sections from above the consist, and a transport position that supports the rail sections.
A fixture system for rail transport of wind turbine blades upon a consist of flatcars using a root-support fixture, a blade-support fixture, and first and second guide post that intermittently engage the tip-end portion of the wind turbine blade to limit lateral movement thereof, such that movement of the consist around a curved railway section urges the wind turbine blade against the first or second guide posts, which urges the wind turbine blade to urge the blade-support fixture to move laterally, thereby laterally reorienting the blade upon the consist.
A bracket assembly for securing a tower section to a deck includes a lower support bracket, columns, and a pair of upper upper support brackets, which all have vertical plates with circular apertures. Each circular aperture spans at least two tower flange bolt holes. Attachment yokes are inserted into the circular apertures, and each have at least two bolt apertures, which match the bolt holes size and spacing. The yokes are rotated to align the holes for insertion of bolts. Specific yokes are provided to fit various tower sizes. The brackets can be stacked, and the yoke arrangement substantially reduces bolt torque requirements.
A rail fixture system for wind turbine blades on a consist three flatcars, includes a root-support fixture that enables lateral movement, a mid-support fixture with a pair of lateral guides on opposing sides of the to limit the blade's lateral movement, and blade-pusher posts adjacent a curved portion of the blade, coupled to gravity weights, that intermittently engage sides of the blade and apply gravity forces in response to relative lateral movement thereof around rail curves, and which bends the blade, applies a fulcrum force against the lateral guides, and translates the root end of the blade in an opposing lateral direction.
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
B61D 3/08 - Flat wagons including posts or standards
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B60P 7/12 - Securing to vehicle floor or sides the load being tree-trunks, beams, drums, tubes, or the like
11.
Modular systems and methods for transporting tower assembly of wind turbine
A system and method are used for transporting a plurality of tower sections of a wind turbine on beds of transport devices, such as flat railcars. Supports affix at support locations on beds to accommodate at least one of the tower sections on each of the transport devices. The supports can include bed supports, such as tabs, extending from the beds, and can include cradle supports with slots that engage on the tabs. A circumferential dimension of a cradle is adjusted on each of the supports against which the tower section rests. Each of the tower sections is then supported with at least two of the supports by loading the tower sections on the transport devices. An end of each of the tower sections is then affixed to a flange on at least one of the supports on each of the transport devices.
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
E04H 12/00 - TowersMasts or polesChimney stacksWater-towersMethods of erecting such structures
E04H 12/34 - Arrangements for erecting or lowering towers, masts, poles, chimney stacks, or the like
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
12.
UNIVERSAL ROOT END SUPPORT FIXTURE FOR WIND TURBINE BLADES
A support fixture for a wind turbine blades transported by rail. A main frame pivots about a first vertical axis and a first lateral axis, and has a frame arm extending from it. The main frame supports the wind turbine blade on a blade cradle. A root end stand is pivotally supported from the frame arm about a second vertical axis. A mounting flange adapter, coupled to the wind turbine blade, pivots about a second lateral axis and a longitudinal axis, and is supported by the root end stand. Fixture has universal adaptability by virtue of the plural axes of pivot.
A support fixture for a wind turbine blades transported by rail. A main frame pivots about a first vertical axis and a first lateral axis, and has a frame arm extending from it. The main frame supports the wind turbine blade on a blade cradle. A root end stand is pivotally supported from the frame arm about a second vertical axis. A mounting flange adapter, coupled to the wind turbine blade, pivots about a second lateral axis and a longitudinal axis, and is supported by the root end stand. Fixture has universal adaptability by virtue of the plural axes of pivot.
A support fixture for a wind turbine blades transported by rail. A main frame pivots about a first vertical axis and a first lateral axis, and has a frame arm extending from it. The main frame supports the wind turbine blade on a blade cradle. A root end stand is pivotally supported from the frame arm about a second vertical axis. A mounting flange adapter, coupled to the wind turbine blade, pivots about a second lateral axis and a longitudinal axis, and is supported by the root end stand. Fixture has universal adaptability by virtue of the plural axes of pivot.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Transportation consulting services in the field of overall logistics planning and project management; and transportation logistics consultation services in the field of transportation mode selection, route planning and route execution, through completion Technology consultation in the field of logistics engineering
A support fixture for a wind turbine blade that enables rotation of the blade about its longitudinal axis, and which includes a conformal insert. A selectively deployable stacking frame portion is provided. The support fixture is interchangeably useful for rail, ocean, barge, and truck transportation modes, as well as for static storage.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
A support fixture for a wind turbine blade that enables rotation of the blade about its longitudinal axis, and which includes a conformal insert. A selectively deployable stacking frame portion is provided. The support fixture is interchangeably useful for rail, ocean, barge, and truck transportation modes, as well as for static storage.
A47B 81/00 - Cabinets, racks or shelf units specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B24B 19/14 - Single purpose machines or devices for particular grinding operations not covered by any other main group for grinding turbine blades, propeller blades or the like
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Outsourcing services in the nature of arranging procurement of goods for others; business assistance in the nature of transportation vendor outsourcing services, namely, third party vendor selection, hiring, and management Transportation logistics services, namely, overall planning and scheduling of shipments for users of transportation services; transportation logistics consultation in the field of transportation mode selection, route planning and route execution Integrated engineering services; engineering in the field of logistical equipment
A railcar consist of flatcars for transporting continuous rail sections configured for top loading and end unloading of the rail sections. The consist includes a tie-down flatcar and plural support flatcars. The tie-down flatcar includes a rail securement rack with plural removable rail clamping shelves that facilitate top loading and clamping of the rail sections in place. Each of the plural support flatcars have a roller rack fixed to it. The roller racks include plural roller shelves with rollers to support the rail sections. The roller shelves are are pivotally mounted to the roller racks between a loading position that provides clearance for placement of the rail sections from above the consist, and a transport position that supports the rail sections.
A railcar consist of flatcars for transporting continuous rail sections configured for top loading and end unloading of the rail sections. The consist includes a tie-down flatcar and plural support flatcars. The tie-down flatcar includes a rail securement rack with plural removable rail clamping shelves that facilitate top loading and clamping of the rail sections in place. Each of the plural support flatcars have a roller rack fixed to it. The roller racks include plural roller shelves with rollers to support the rail sections. The roller shelves are are pivotally mounted to the roller racks between a loading position that provides clearance for placement of the rail sections from above the consist, and a transport position that supports the rail sections.
A railcar consist of flatcars for transporting continuous rail sections configured for top loading and end unloading of the rail sections. The consist includes a tie-down flatcar and plural support flatcars. The tie-down flatcar includes a rail securement rack with plural removable rail clamping shelves that facilitate top loading and clamping of the rail sections in place. Each of the plural support flatcars have a roller rack fixed to it. The roller racks include plural roller shelves with rollers to support the rail sections. The roller shelves are pivotally mounted to the roller racks between a loading position that provides clearance for placement of the rail sections from above the consist, and a transport position that supports the rail sections.
Project management services for others in the fields of logistics engineering, procurement, logistics, and transportation services, namely, logistics management; business services, namely, selecting, engaging, and managing third party vendors on behalf of others; business management consultancy in the field of transport and delivery, namely, transportation mode selection, route planning and execution
A support fixture for a wind turbine blade that enables rotation of the blade about its longitudinal axis, and which includes a conformal insert. A selectively deployable stacking frame portion is provided. The support fixture is interchangeably useful for rail, ocean, barge, and truck transportation modes, as well as for static storage.
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
A47B 81/00 - Cabinets, racks or shelf units specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
A lashing pawl for engaging a hole in member to retainably engage a lashing line thereto, and thereby facilitate lashing the member to a fixture or vehicle, wherein the member has a distal face and a proximal face spaced apart by a depth of the hole, and wherein the lashing pawl includes a pin hole formed therethrough for engaging the lashing line, and an engagement face that engages the distal face of the member to retain the lashing pawl in place.
Fixtures for supporting wind turbine blades that have a root end flange, which may be interconnected with twistlock fasteners and stacked for use in plural modes of transportation, including ocean transportation. A root fixture includes a bearing that rotatably engages a mounting flange adapter that is coupled to the blade's root flange. A bearing pivot is coupled to the bearing to allow the blade to pivot during loading, unloading and transport. A tip stand assembly is provided to engage the blade along a tip end support region.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B60P 7/12 - Securing to vehicle floor or sides the load being tree-trunks, beams, drums, tubes, or the like
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
B65D 61/00 - External frames or supports adapted to be assembled around, or applied to, articles
B65D 81/00 - Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
Fixtures for supporting wind turbine blades that have a root end flange, which may be interconnected with twistlock fasteners and stacked for use in plural modes of transportation, including ocean transportation. A root fixture includes a bearing that rotatably engages a mounting flange adapter that is coupled to the blade's root flange. A bearing pivot is coupled to the bearing to allow the blade to pivot during loading, unloading and transport. A tip stand assembly is provided to engage the blade along a tip end support region.
F03D 80/00 - Details, components or accessories not provided for in groups
F03D 13/00 - Assembly, mounting or commissioning of wind motorsArrangements specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
B60P 3/00 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
B60P 7/00 - Securing or covering of load on vehicles
B60P 7/12 - Securing to vehicle floor or sides the load being tree-trunks, beams, drums, tubes, or the like
Fixtures for supporting wind turbine blades that have a root end flange, which may be interconnected with twistlock fasteners and stacked for use in plural modes of transportation, including ocean transportation. A root fixture includes a bearing that rotatably engages a mounting flange adapter that is coupled to the blade's root flange. A bearing pivot is coupled to the bearing to allow the blade to pivot during loading, unloading and transport. A tip stand assembly is provided to engage the blade along a tip end support region.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments of industrial products and manufactured goods, large over-dimension and over-weight equipment, construction equipment and materials, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipment routing options comprising single and multimode transportation routes, including truck, rail, and ocean modes, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments via intermodal transloading between rail, truck, and ocean transport, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments through international border crossings, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments via containerized multi-modal transport methods, all for users of transportation services Transportation consulting services related to providing shipment of industrial products, manufactured goods, and large over-dimension and over-weight equipment
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments of industrial products and manufactured goods, large over-dimension and over-weight equipment, construction equipment and materials, all for users of transportation services; transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipment routing options comprising single and multimode transportation routes, including truck, rail, and ocean modes, all for users of transportation services; transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments via intermodal transloading between rail, truck, and ocean transport, all for users of transportation services; transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments through international border crossings, all for users of transportation services; transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments via containerized multi-modal transport methods, all for users of transportation services Transportation consulting services related to providing shipment of industrial products, manufactured goods, and large over-dimension and over-weight equipment
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments of industrial products and manufactured goods, large over-dimension and over-weight equipment, construction equipment and materials, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipment routing options comprising single and multimode transportation routes, including truck, rail, and ocean modes, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments via intermodal transloading between rail, truck, and ocean transport, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments through international border crossings, all for users of transportation services; Transportation logistics management, namely, planning and scheduling shipments via containerized multi-modal transport methods, all for users of transportation services Transportation consulting services related to providing shipment of industrial products, manufactured goods, and large over-dimension and over-weight equipment
A lashing pin for engaging a hole in member to facilitate lashing the member to a fixture or vehicle. The lashing pin combines a cam pin sleeve assembly having a flange and sleeve with an eccentric hole formed therethrough with a cam pin assembly having a cam pin passing through the eccentric hole and connecting a cam disk with an eccentrically mounted cam. Rotation of the cam disk with respect to the flange aligns and misaligned the cam with respect to the cam sleeve, thereby enabling insertion through the hole at first position, and retention of the cam against removal at a second position.
F16B 13/04 - Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front
F16B 13/10 - Dowels or other devices fastened in walls or the like by inserting them in holes made therein for that purpose with parts gripping in the hole or behind the reverse side of the wall after inserting from the front with separate gripping parts moved into their final position in relation to the body of the device by a separate operation
A foldable handhold assembly for attachment to a railroad flatcar includes a handhold that has a pair of side rails connected with a horizontal grab bar. A pair of brackets, which each have a mounting surface conforming to the shape of the flatcar sill. The brackets each have a hinge that rotatably couples to the proximate end of one of the side rail, which enables the handhold to rotate about the hinges between a deployed position where the grab bar extends above the flatcar deck and a stowed position where the handhold extends below the flatcar deck. One of the brackets also has latch aligned to selectively retain the handhold at the deployed position.
A foldable handhold assembly for attachment to a railroad flatcar includes a handhold that has a pair of side rails connected with a horizontal grab bar. A pair of brackets, which each have a mounting surface conforming to the shape of the flatcar sill. The brackets each have a hinge that rotatably couples to the proximate end of one of the side rail, which enables the handhold to rotate about the hinges between a deployed position where the grab bar extends above the flatcar deck and a stowed position where the handhold extends below the flatcar deck. One of the brackets also has latch aligned to selectively retain the handhold at the deployed position.
A wind turbine blade rail fixture set employing a pair of support assemblies, each having a bolster, radius arm, and pivot disposed on a pair of railcars to minimize lateral overhang as the train traverses railroad curves, and having a slidable carriage disposed on one radius arm to accommodate changes in length between the bolsters.
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
37.
Modular systems and methods for transporting tower assembly of wind turbine
A system and method are used for transporting a plurality of tower sections of a wind turbine on beds of transport devices, such as flat railcars. Supports affix at support locations on beds to accommodate at least one of the tower sections on each of the transport devices. The supports can include bed supports, such as tabs, extending from the beds, and can include cradle supports with slots that engage on the tabs. A circumferential dimension of a cradle is adjusted on each of the supports against which the tower section rests. Each of the tower sections is then supported with at least two of the supports by loading the tower sections on the transport devices. An end of each of the tower sections is then affixed to a flange on at least one of the supports on each of the transport devices.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
F03D 13/40 - Arrangements or methods specially adapted for transporting wind motor components
E04H 12/00 - TowersMasts or polesChimney stacksWater-towersMethods of erecting such structures
E04H 12/34 - Arrangements for erecting or lowering towers, masts, poles, chimney stacks, or the like
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
38.
Saddle system for use in the rail transport of large towers
A saddle and foot stop mounting system for large tower sections transported by rail. A locating assembly, including a key rail assembly and a foot stop assembly are used in conjunction with movable saddles. The foot stop assembly includes a locating key for engaging one of plural key fixtures along the key rail, which defines plural mounting locations for the foot stop. Used in conjunction with the movable saddles, this system accommodates a wide range of tower section sizes and weights.
A system and method are used for transporting a plurality of tower sections of a wind turbine on beds of transport devices, such as flat railcars. Supports affix at support locations on beds to accommodate at least one of the tower sections on each of the transport devices. The supports can include bed supports, such as tabs, extending from the beds, and can include cradle supports with slots that engage on the tabs. A circumferential dimension of a cradle is adjusted on each of the supports against which the tower section rests. Each of the tower sections is then supported with at least two of the supports by loading the tower sections on the transport devices. An end of each of the tower sections is then affixed to a flange on at least one of the supports on each of the transport devices.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
F03D 1/00 - Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B65G 67/12 - Loading elongated articles, e.g. rails, logs
40.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRANSPORTING WIND TURBINE BLADES
A system for transporting wind turbine blades includes a root support structure for supporting a wind turbine blade root and a tip section support structure for supporting a wind turbine blade tip. Each of the root and tip support structures includes upper and lower frames, first and second side frames, a set of upper corner fittings disposed at upper corners of the support structure, and a set of lower fittings disposed at lower corners of the support structure. The sets of corner fittings allow the root and tip support structures to be coupled to vertically or horizontally adjacent root and tip support structures to form an array of support structures for transporting multiple wind turbine blades. The sets of corner fittings also allow for attachment to handling equipment, as well as to reinforcing structures for reinforcing an array of tip support structures.
A system for transporting wind turbine blades includes a root support structure for supporting a wind turbine blade root and a tip section support structure for supporting a wind turbine blade tip. Each of the root and tip support structures includes upper and lower frames, first and second side frames, a set of upper corner fittings disposed at upper corners of the support structure, and a set of lower fittings disposed at lower corners of the support structure. The sets of corner fittings allow the root and tip support structures to be coupled to vertically or horizontally adjacent root and tip support structures to form an array of support structures for transporting multiple wind turbine blades. The sets of corner fittings also allow for attachment to handling equipment, as well as to reinforcing structures for reinforcing an array of tip support structures.
Airfoil transportation using two railcars. A radius arm connects a deck pivot and a bolster pivot, where the deck pivot is coupled to the first railcar to enable arcuate transverse movement of the bolster pivot. A pair of deck stops on either side of the radius arm limit lateral movement of the first bolster pivot. A bolster supports the airfoil and is coupled to the radius arm by the bolster pivot. A wheel assembly under the radius arm carries the weight of the airfoil as it moves laterally. A bolster lock, lock release, and latch operate to hold the bolster in a fixed angular relationship with the radius until the lock release enables rotation at the deck stops positions. The latch holds the radius arm against the deck stop until the bolster returns to the fixed angular position, where the latch releases the radius arm to further translate laterally.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B60P 7/12 - Securing to vehicle floor or sides the load being tree-trunks, beams, drums, tubes, or the like
A system and method for transporting a first and second airfoil using a center railcar coupled to two additional railcars. A pair of root brackets support the root ends of the two airfoils on the two additional cars, aligning the two airfoils over the center car. A lower sling stand on the center railcar has a pair of vertical side members extending upwardly to hang a lower sling that support the first airfoil. An upper sling stand has a base that is supported by the lower sling stand, and also has a pair of upper side members that support an upper sling. The second airfoil is supported by the upper sling. The upper sling stand is fixedly supported on the lower sling stand so as to support the second airfoil above the first airfoil in overlapping fashion.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
F03D 1/00 - Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor
B61D 45/00 - Means or devices for securing or supporting the cargo, including protection against shocks
45.
Systems and methods for transporting wind turbine blades
A system for transporting a wind turbine blade includes a first support subsystem disposed on a first movable platform, which allows a first point on the wind turbine blade to pivot in response to the first movable platform traversing a curve. A second support subsystem is disposed on a second movable platform spaced, which allows a second point of the wind turbine blade to move laterally in response to the pivoting of the first point on the wind turbine blade on the first movable platform.
F03D 1/00 - Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
46.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRANSPORTING WIND TURBINE BLADES
A system for transporting a wind turbine blade includes a first support subsystem disposed on a first movable platform, which allows a first point on the wind turbine blade to pivot in response to the first movable platform traversing a curve. A second support subsystem is disposed on a second movable platform spaced, which allows a second point of the wind turbine blade to move laterally in response to the pivoting of the first point on the wind turbine blade on the first movable platform.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
A system for transporting wind turbine blades includes a first support structure for supporting a cylindrical root section of a first wind turbine blade and a second support structure aligned with and spaced from the first support structure for supporting a tip section of the first wind turbine blade. A third support structure is included for supporting a tip section of a second wind turbine blade. A fourth support structure is spaced from and aligned with the third support structure for supporting a cylindrical root section of the second wind turbine blade. The first and second wind turbine blades extend with an edge-vertical orientation in opposing directions such that a tip of the first wind turbine blade is disposed horizontally adjacent the cylindrical root section of the second wind turbine blade and a tip of the second wind turbine blade is disposed horizontally adjacent the cylindrical root section of the first wind turbine blade.
A system for transporting wind turbine blades includes a first support structure for supporting a cylindrical root section of a first wind turbine blade and a second support structure aligned with and spaced from the first support structure for supporting a tip section of the first wind turbine blade. A third support structure is included for supporting a tip section of a second wind turbine blade. A fourth support structure is spaced from and aligned with the third support structure for supporting a cylindrical root section of the second wind turbine blade. The first and second wind turbine blades extend with an edge-vertical orientation in opposing directions such that a tip of the first wind turbine blade is disposed horizontally adjacent the cylindrical root section of the second wind turbine blade and a tip of the second wind turbine blade is disposed horizontally adjacent the cylindrical root section of the first wind turbine blade.
A system for transporting an airfoil over a railroad utilizing a first railcar coupled to a second railcar. The system includes a root bracket that supports a root end of the airfoil on the first railcar, and is oriented to align a tip end of the airfoil toward the second railcar. A blade support is fixed to the second railcar and is disposed to support the airfoil along its midsection. A weight is hung from a tension member on the second railcar such that the force of gravity induces tension forces along the tension member. An urging member is disposed on the second railcar and oriented to engage the airfoil between the blade support and the tip end of the airfoil. The urging member is coupled to the tension member such that the tension forces are transferred to the urging member to induce lateral forces against the airfoil.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
A system for transporting an airfoil over a railroad utilizing a first railcar coupled to a second railcar. The system includes a root bracket that supports a root end of the airfoil on the first railcar, and is oriented to align a tip end of the airfoil toward the second railcar. A blade support is fixed to the second railcar and is disposed to support the airfoil along its midsection. A weight is hung from a tension member on the second railcar such that the force of gravity induces tension forces along the tension member. An urging member is disposed on the second railcar and oriented to engage the airfoil between the blade support and the tip end of the airfoil. The urging member is coupled to the tension member such that the tension forces are transferred to the urging member to induce lateral forces against the airfoil.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
52.
Large tower railroad transportation system and method
A system for transporting a tower on deck of a railcar includes a locating assembly, with a key assembly fixed to the deck and disengageably coupled to a foot-stop assembly fixed to the tower adjacent to a first end, for locating the tower above the deck, and a saddle assembly and a saddle spacer disposed between the saddle assembly and the tower, where the saddles spacer conforms to the shaped of the elongated portion of the tower, and supports the tower above the deck.
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
53.
Large tower railroad transportation system and method
A system for transporting tower with a first end, a second end, and an elongated portion, using a railcar with a deck for carrying a load. The system includes a first support means for disposition between the railcar and the tower at a first location, and that is adapted to support the tower above the deck. The system also includes a first saddle assembly with a base for resting upon the deck of the railcar, and a saddle that conforms to the shape of a large tower. The saddle assembly is adapted to support the tower above the deck. The system also includes a plastic spacer assembly, for disposition between the saddle of the first saddle assembly and a second location along the elongated portion of the tower, and that has a saddle rest that conforms to the shaped of the saddle, and that has a spacer saddle that conforms to the shape of the elongated portion of the tower at the second location.
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
54.
Flange assembly railroad transportation system and method
A system for transporting a load of plural flange assemblies using a railcar that has open top over a load-area. The system includes a structural frame configured for positioning at least partially about the load area of the railcar. The structural frame includes a first and second incline that are opposingly oriented to define a load trough, which is accessible for insertion of at least a portion of the load thereinto from above the open top of the railcar. A railcar engagement member is disposed to fixedly couple the structural frame to the railcar. Incline dunnage is positioned on the first and second incline so as to engage and support the load, and so as to prevent direct contact between the load and the railcar. A first movable stop is coupled to the structural frame, and has an adjustment for selectively positioning it to engage and maintain the load against tipping forces.
A system for transporting tower with a first end, a second end, and an elongated portion, using a railcar with a deck for carrying a load. The system includes a first support means for disposition between the railcar and the tower at a first location, and that is adapted to support the tower above the deck. The system also includes a first saddle assembly with a base for resting upon the deck of the railcar, and a saddle that conforms to the shape of a large tower. The saddle assembly is adapted to support the tower above the deck. The system also includes a spacer assembly, for disposition between the saddle of the first saddle assembly and a second location along the elongated portion of the tower, and that has a saddle rest that conforms to the shaped of the saddle, and that has a spacer saddle that conforms to the shape of the elongated portion of the tower at the second location.
B61D 3/16 - Wagons or vans adapted for carrying special loads
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
56.
Wind turbine blade transportation system and method
A system for transporting an airfoil having a root end, a tip end, and a midsection over a railroad, utilizing a first railcar coupled to a second rail car. The system includes a bracket fixed to the root end of the airfoil and also connected to the first railcar, where the bracket is oriented to align the tip end of the airfoil toward the second rail car. A sling stand is connected to the second railcar, and a sling is hung from the sling stand and aligned to engage and support the midsection of the airfoil, and thereby accommodates misalignment during transport over the railroad. A pair of rollers are disposed on either side of the airfoil to limit lateral movement thereof.
B60P 3/022 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for transporting prefabricated buildings or modules thereof, e.g. prefabricated garages or the like
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
B60P 3/00 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
57.
Wind turbine blade transportation system and method
A system and method for transporting an airfoil, which has a root end, a tip end, and a midsection, over a railroad utilizing a first railcar coupled to a second railcar. The system includes a bracket fixed to the root end of the airfoil and connected to the first railcar, and, the bracket is oriented to align the tip end of the airfoil toward the second railcar. A sliding support is connected to the first railcar at a position between the bracket and the second railcar. The sliding support is adapted to engage the midsection of the airfoil and support the airfoil while enabling the airfoil to move laterally. A lateral guide structure is connected to the second railcar, and aligned to engage the airfoil to limit its lateral movement.
B60P 3/40 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects for carrying long loads, e.g. with separate wheeled load-supporting elements
