Method of retrofitting a wind turbine with an energy generating unit
US12429032B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 24, 2022 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 24, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P70/50
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of retrofitting a wind turbine having a tower and a first energy generating unit with a second energy generation unit is disclosed. The wind turbine has been operated for a first period of time at a first tower life rate and has a first tower life expectancy design value. The method includes determining the tower life of the wind turbine tower used during the first period of time; determining the remaining tower life of the wind turbine tower; replacing the first energy generating unit with the second energy generating unit; and operating the retrofitted wind turbine at a second tower life rate less than the first tower life rate so as to extend the life expectancy value of the tower beyond the first tower life expectancy design value.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.