Stowed As Bridge Between Trucks Or Across Cars Or On Drop-center (schnabel Type) Car Patents (Class 410/45)
  • Patent number: 11241762
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for establishing a sectional or modular wind turbine blade. The method comprises the steps of transporting at least two blade sections of said wind turbine blade and a mobile factory for joining blade sections to a location at or in proximity of a wind turbine site, positioning said blade sections with two blade section ends facing each other and supported on a platform in said mobile factory, moving said platform in relation to the ground at the location for levelling said platform, aligning said blade section ends in relation to each other, and establishing said sectional or modular wind turbine blade by joining blade sections in an area of connection at said blade section ends. The invention also relates to a system for establishing a sectional or modular wind turbine blade and a mobile factory for joining sections of a wind turbine blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: LM WIND POWER US TECHNOLOGY APS
    Inventor: Roelof Willem Schuring
  • Patent number: 11027753
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a railroad grid, a set of railcars, and a set of stations. The railroad grid comprises a set of tracks. The set of tracks can have a spacing between outer rail center lines of at least 50 feet. At least one of the set of railcars can be constructed to receive a set of tractor and trailer pairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Inventor: Wellington Corbin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10995735
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: BNSF Logistics, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew J. Sullivan, James H. Jones, III, Billy R. Goodwin
  • Patent number: 10961983
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a blade transport vehicle which includes a base, a blade fixing frame disposed on the base, a first moving device disposed at an upper end of the base to move the blade fixing frame in a longitudinal direction of the base, and a second moving device disposed at an upper end of the first moving device to move the blade fixing frame in a width direction of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Doosan Heavy Industries Construction Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Sung Rae Lee, Ki Hak Lee
  • Patent number: 10857663
    Abstract: A wind turbine blade suspension and rotation device capable of raising and lowering the blade includes a blade housing configured to receive a blade and having at least one guide on an exterior surface; a base; a first telescopic frame disposed on a first side of the base; a second telescopic frame disposed on a second side of the base; at least one adjustable strap, the adjustable strap disposed between the adjustable frames; wherein the at least one strap extends through the guide on the exterior surface of the housing to suspend the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: TPI Composites, Inc.
    Inventors: Mehmet Üyünük, Furkan Ünal
  • Patent number: 9950814
    Abstract: Intermodal vehicles may be loaded with items and an aerial vehicle, and directed to travel to areas where demand for the items is known or anticipated. The intermodal vehicles may be coupled to locomotives, container ships, road tractors or other vehicles, and equipped with systems for loading one or more items onto the aerial vehicle, and for launching or retrieving the aerial vehicle while the intermodal vehicles are in motion. The areas where the demand is known or anticipated may be identified on any basis, including but not limited to past histories of purchases or deliveries to such areas, or events that are scheduled to occur in such areas. Additionally, intermodal vehicles may be loaded with replacement parts and/or inspection equipment, and configured to conduct repairs, servicing operations or inspections on aerial vehicles within the intermodal vehicles, while the intermodal vehicles are in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Nicholas Bjone
  • Patent number: 9718564
    Abstract: Intermodal vehicles may be loaded with items and an aerial vehicle, and directed to travel to areas where demand for the items is known or anticipated. The intermodal vehicles may be coupled to locomotives, container ships, road tractors or other vehicles, and equipped with systems for loading one or more items onto the aerial vehicle, and for launching or retrieving the aerial vehicle while the intermodal vehicles are in motion. The areas where the demand is known or anticipated may be identified on any basis, including but not limited to past histories of purchases or deliveries to such areas, or events that are scheduled to occur in such areas. Additionally, intermodal vehicles may be loaded with replacement parts and/or inspection equipment, and configured to conduct repairs, servicing operations or inspections on aerial vehicles within the intermodal vehicles, while the intermodal vehicles are in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Nicholas Bjone
  • Patent number: 9567969
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: BHSF Logistics, LLC
    Inventor: Sigurd Ernir Sigurdsson
  • Patent number: 9522626
    Abstract: A blade tip clamp arrangement configured to support a wind turbine rotor blade, including at least a tip clamp assembly configured to hold the rotor blade along an airfoil portion of the rotor blade, and a pivot connection interface configured to pivotably connect the tip clamp assembly to a wheeled transport means, is provided. A rotor blade transport and storage arrangement configured for the storage and transport of a wind turbine rotor blade, and a method of handling a wind turbine rotor blade during transport and storage is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Steen Mattrup Hansen, Aage Mastrup, Kenneth Helligsoe Svinth
  • Patent number: 9254775
    Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for controlling transport of a heavy load by which a transport vehicle smoothly transports a heavy load such as a rotor blade of a wind power generator, which has a high weight and a large length, without collisions or interferences by controlling movement of the heavy load according to a facility around a road or a peripheral environmental condition in a process of transporting the heavy load on the road with the transport vehicle, a transport vehicle, and a method of controlling transport of a heavy load. The apparatus includes: an adjusting unit configured to control rotation or movements of the heavy load so that collision or interference of the heavy load with a facility around a road or a peripheral environmental condition is prevented in a process of transporting the heavy load after the heavy load is fixedly mounted to the adjusting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: DOOSAN HEAVY INDUSTRIES & CONSTRUCTION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ki Hak Lee
  • Patent number: 9221379
    Abstract: A method of transporting a wind turbine blade with a curved central longitudinal axis includes loading the wind turbine blade onto a transportation device including first and second support bearings. The wind turbine blade is loaded in a first orientation in which the curved central longitudinal axis is located in a generally vertical plane. When the transportation device is preparing to turn, the wind turbine blade is rotated to a second orientation before or during turning such that the curved central longitudinal axis is located in a generally horizontal plane and bends around the turn. As a result, the curved wind turbine blade and transportation device can traverse tighter curves and turns during travel to an assembly site or quayside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/S
    Inventor: Stephen Randall
  • Patent number: 9199570
    Abstract: A system for supporting a blade for a wind turbine, in particular a wind turbine blade having a curved portion is described. The system includes a first support arrangement with (a) a root support element adapted to support a root portion of the blade such that the root portion is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the blade, and (b) a root elevation element adapted to adjust a vertical position of the root support element. Further, a transport vehicle for transporting a blade for a wind turbine is provided. The transport vehicle includes (a) a front platform, (b) a rear platform, and (c) a system as described above, wherein the first support arrangement is mounted at the front platform and the second support arrangement is mounted at the rear platform. Furthermore, a method of transporting a wind turbine blade having a curved portion is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Tom Pedersen, Jens Thomsen
  • Patent number: 9120417
    Abstract: A method of transporting a wind turbine blade with a curved central longitudinal axis includes loading the wind turbine blade onto a transportation device including first and second support bearings. The wind turbine blade is loaded in a first orientation in which the curved central longitudinal axis is located in a generally vertical plane. When the transportation device is preparing to turn, the wind turbine blade is rotated to a second orientation before or during turning such that the curved central longitudinal axis is located in a generally horizontal plane and bends around the turn. As a result, the curved wind turbine blade and transportation device can traverse tighter curves and turns during travel to an assembly site or quayside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/S
    Inventor: Stephen Randall
  • Patent number: 8998546
    Abstract: A fixture for attachment of an end of a member, such as a wind turbine tower section, blade or hub for a wind turbine characteristically has an end flange. To enable clamping while being able to compensate for different hole patterns in the flanges, by the invention, the fixture provides for retaining of ends of members with flanges, regardless of flange diameter and hole patterns, and which is also quickly and easily installed. Additionally, it is possible to firmly clamp the flange end to upstanding frame parts of the fixture with fastening elements, thereby providing a stable connection between a console of the fixture and the upstanding frame parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Liftra ApS
    Inventor: Per E Fenger
  • Patent number: 8960722
    Abstract: A trailer for transporting an agricultural harvesting head includes a pair of saddles for supporting the head. The saddles are adjustably mounted on the trailer frame and are simultaneously moved together by an actuator operated by a remote control. The saddles are connected by telescoping rod sections so that the spacing between the saddles is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Harvest International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Sivinski, Garry D. Friesen, Byron J. Friesen
  • Patent number: 8956100
    Abstract: Solutions for minimizing the impact of servicing a turbo machine are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for conveying a turbo machine component can include: a motive system for moving the apparatus along a surface; a platform system operably connected to the motive system, the platform system for supporting the component of the turbo machine, the platform system can include: a first portion fixed to the motive system; and a second portion moveably coupled to the first portion, the second portion for modifying a position of the turbo machine component; and a control system operably connected to the platform system, the control system for controlling at least one of a rate of movement or a direction of the second portion of the platform system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Michael Alan Davi, Paul Robert Fernandez, John William Herbold, Andrew Thomas Hynous, Sean O'Meara
  • Patent number: 8931985
    Abstract: A system and method for modularization of a Schnabel car is disclosed herein. Specifically disclosed is a modular Schnabel car comprising two Schnabel sections, each connectable to and capable of supporting a load. The Schnabel sections can comprise a Schnabel arm comprising an arm base and arm end, in which the end is connectable to the load. Furthermore, the Schnabel sections can comprise a load spreader having a spreader apex and a plurality of spreader bases and a first quick connect system that connects the arm base to a spreader apex. The load spreader can comprise a span bolster. The first quick connect system can comprise a first connector connected to the arm base and a second connector attached to a spreader apex. The first connector can be mateable with the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Mammoet USA South, Inc.
    Inventor: Piet Nooren
  • Patent number: 8920083
    Abstract: The presented embodiments provide a system (10) for transporting a load (12) via multiple conveyance types. The system (10) includes a supporting member (22, 23) configured for attachment to the load (12), including a vehicle interface portion (40, 42), a first supporting member interface portion for attachment to the first vehicle of a first conveyance type, and a second supporting member interface portion for attachment to the second vehicle of a second conveyance type. The vehicle interface portion and the first and second supporting member interface portions are cooperatively configured such that when the load (12) is attached to the supporting member (22, 23) it can be moved between the first and second vehicles by a vertical lift and place move selectively parting and joining the vehicle interface portion with the first and second supporting member interface portions without the necessity of joining or separating a fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Eric M. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20140369779
    Abstract: A method of transporting a wind turbine blade with a curved central longitudinal axis includes loading the wind turbine blade onto a transportation device including first and second support bearings. The wind turbine blade is loaded in a first orientation in which the curved central longitudinal axis is located in a generally vertical plane. When the transportation device is preparing to turn, the wind turbine blade is rotated to a second orientation before or during turning such that the curved central longitudinal axis is located in a generally horizontal plane and bends around the turn. As a result, the curved wind turbine blade and transportation device can traverse tighter curves and turns during travel to an assembly site or quayside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/S
    Inventor: Stephen Randall
  • Publication number: 20140286723
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
  • Patent number: 8834082
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Transportation Technology Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
  • Publication number: 20140169904
    Abstract: An improved Schnabel car is described herein. Specifically disclosed is an improved Schnabel car comprising two Schnabel sections connectable to and capable of supporting a load. The Schnabel sections can comprise said Schnabel a Schnabel arm comprising an arm base and an arm end connectable to a load. The improved Schnabel car can also additionally comprise a load spreader having a spreader apex and a plurality of spreader bases, where the spreader apex connects the arm base to the spreader apex. Furthermore, the improved Schnabel car can comprise span bolsters having a bolster apex, each of which can be connected to at least one of the spreader bases, and bolster bases, each of which can be connected to bolster rail cars with bolster rails together comprising more than 36 axles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Piet Nooren
  • Publication number: 20140169903
    Abstract: A system and method for modularization of a Schnabel car is disclosed herein. Specifically disclosed is a modular Schnabel car comprising two Schnabel sections, each connectable to and capable of supporting a load. The Schnabel sections can comprise a Schnabel arm comprising an arm base and arm end, in which the end is connectable to the load. Furthermore, the Schnabel sections can comprise a load spreader having a spreader apex and a plurality of spreader bases and a first quick connect system that connects the arm base to a spreader apex. The load spreader can comprise a span bolster. The first quick connect system can comprise a first connector connected to the arm base and a second connector attached to a spreader apex. The first connector can be mateable with the second connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Piet Nooren
  • Patent number: 8753050
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a transport apparatus for transporting a rotor blade of a wind power installation on a transport vehicle comprising a plurality of successively arranged and pivotably interconnected wagon elements. The transport apparatus may include a blade root carrier adapted to attach to a first wagon element for carrying the rotor blade in a region of a rotor blade root thereof on the first wagon element, a central carrier adapted to attach to a second wagon element for carrying the rotor blade in a central region thereof on the second wagon element, and a blade tip damper for making an elastic connection between a third wagon element and the rotor blade in a region of a rotor blade tip thereof for damping oscillations of the rotor blade tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventors: Bernd Cyrus, Frank Lülker
  • Patent number: 8641339
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for transporting a wind turbine blade (10) on at least two railcars over a railway is provided. The apparatus includes a root end support (22) for supporting the root end (12) of the blade, a mid span support (28) for supporting the mid span (14) of the blade, and a tip displacement limiter (24) for restricting a tip end (16) of the blade from extending beyond a lateral transportation limit (30) imposed by the railroad. The tip displacement limiter exerts a force on the blade which is counter to a force exerted on the blade by the mid span support only when the railcars navigate a design basis curve (32) in the railway to cause a bending of the blade in order to avoid exceeding the lateral transportation limit. The apparatus is particularly useful for the transportation of extra-long or curved wind turbine blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Karsten Schibsbye, John T. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20130343827
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for transporting a wind turbine blade (10) on at least two railcars over a railway is provided. The apparatus includes a root end support (22) for supporting the root end (12) of the blade, a mid span support (28) for supporting the mid span (14) of the blade, and a tip displacement limiter (24) for restricting a tip end (16) of the blade from extending beyond a lateral transportation limit (30) imposed by the railroad. The tip displacement limiter exerts a force on the blade which is counter to a force exerted on the blade by the mid span support only when the railcars navigate a design basis curve (32) in the railway to cause a bending of the blade in order to avoid exceeding the lateral transportation limit. The apparatus is particularly useful for the transportation of extra-long or curved wind turbine blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: KARSTEN SCHIBSBYE, JOHN T. SULLIVAN
  • Patent number: 8591155
    Abstract: A green transport system includes a bogie system having forwardly disposed and rearwardly disposed bogies in which the rearwardy disposed bogie includes a front bogie and a rear bogie interconnected to the front bogie by a telescopic beam assembly for selective incremental retractable extension so that the bogies are disposed in a plurality of transport modes for load bearing exceptionally high tonnage heavy-duty tracked equipment, particularly crushers without disassembly of the crusher; the exceptionally high tonnage crusher being transported as a single unit, with resultant fuel and energy conservation and greenhouse gas emission reduction, and the elimination of a pre-crushing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventors: Timothy Lawlor, Brian O'Connell
  • Patent number: 8511921
    Abstract: A system for arranging wind turbine blades includes first and second root cradles and a first tip cradle proximate to the second root cradle, wherein the first tip cradle is angled approximately 30 to 60 degrees with respect to a horizontal line. The system also includes a second tip cradle proximate to the first root cradle, wherein the second tip cradle is angled approximately 30 to 60 degrees with respect to the horizontal line. A method for arranging wind turbine blades includes transferring a first wind turbine blade to a first root cradle and transferring a second wind turbine blade to a second root cradle. The method further includes rotating at least a portion of the first wind turbine blade about at least a portion of the second wind turbine blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Scott Gabell Riddell, Michael Claude Ebner, Rene Michel Beukers, Hendrik Cejus de Roo
  • Patent number: 8382407
    Abstract: A rail system for transporting wind turbine blades includes both pivoting and pivoting-sliding support structures carried by a plurality of railcars. Each support structure includes a platform system having a bolster for supporting the wind turbine blade and a support plate for supporting the bolster. The pivoting and pivoting-sliding support structures allow for selective rotational and longitudinal movement of the blades relative to the railcars as the rail system negotiates straight and curved sections of railway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: BNSF Railway Company
    Inventors: Scott Landrum, Eric Thompson
  • Patent number: 8322965
    Abstract: A trailer combination and trailer components are designed to provide dual functionality in terms of hauling a very high tonnage piece of heavy equipment and the ability to continue to haul more typical pieces of heavy equipment. To accomplish this task, a trailer auxiliary is provided that is adapted to connect to a typical low boy trailer. The trailer auxiliary is equipped with mechanisms to provide a bed assembly that is designed to link to the low boy trailer so that the bed assembly and bed of the trailer auxiliary receive the high tonnage piece of equipment. The trailer auxiliary can be equipped with ramps to interface with the trailer and auxiliary to facilitate the loading of the heavy equipment. The trailer combination also includes a hauling vehicle for each of the low boy trailer and auxiliary, with a spacing bar assembly mounted to one of the vehicles to link the vehicles together when hauling the trailer and the auxiliary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Francis V. Smith
  • Patent number: 8306695
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting a wind turbine blade. The vehicle comprises a blade connection device for connecting a first end of the blade to the vehicle, wherein the blade connection device comprise a tilting device for elevating an opposite end of the blade and wherein a tip end of the blade is orientated in a forward direction of the vehicle. A control system for controlling the tilting device of a vehicle and a method for transporting a wind turbine blade are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/S
    Inventor: Gunnar Kamp Storgaard Pedersen
  • Patent number: 8192117
    Abstract: A rail system for transporting wind turbine blades includes both pivoting and pivoting-sliding support structures carried by a plurality of railcars. Each support structure includes a platform system having a bolster for supporting the wind turbine blade and a support plate for supporting the bolster. The pivoting and pivoting-sliding support structures allow for selective rotational and longitudinal movement of the blades relative to the railcars as the rail system negotiates straight and curved sections of railway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: BNSF Railway Company
    Inventors: Scott Landrum, Eric Thompson
  • Patent number: 8096739
    Abstract: A rail system for transporting wind turbine blades includes both pivoting and pivoting-sliding support structures carried by a plurality of railcars. Each support structure includes a platform system having a bolster for supporting the wind turbine blade and a support plate for supporting the bolster. The pivoting and pivoting-sliding support structures allow for selective rotational and longitudinal movement of the blades relative to the railcars as the rail system negotiates straight and curved sections of railway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: BNSF Railway Company
    Inventors: Scott Landrum, Eric Thompson
  • Patent number: 7985039
    Abstract: The invention is relative to a transport vehicle with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of cargo by the cargo itself. The invention has the problem of making a transport vehicle available that also makes possible the transport on highways of very bulky material, especially such material that exceeds the usual profile height of underpasses and bridges (freeway bridges, etc.). A transport vehicle for a rotor blade of a wind power system with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of the rotor blade by the rotor blade and that respectively comprise a holding device and/or receiving device for the rotor blade which holding device and/or receiving device is/are designed in such a manner that it/they permit(s) a rotation of the rotor blade about its longitudinal axis and that a drive for rotating the rotor blade is provided on the tractor and/or the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Aloys Wobben
  • Patent number: 7967536
    Abstract: A transportation tooling of the type that borders the blade at its root and at an intermediate point. This tooling is used in combination with platforms placed on the transportation elements and the platforms can move transversely and turn or rotate with respect to the devices of transportation without affecting blade integrity. Also a method for blade transportation with the tip of one blade facing the tip of the adjacent blade so as to use the minimum space on the devices of transportation. The rail tooling takes into account the maximum corner radius that the train will encounter while absorbing the bending and torsion stress acting on the blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Gamesa Innovation & Technology, S.L.
    Inventors: Daniel A Broderick, Juan Moya Garcia, Lou M Lofranco
  • Patent number: 7918633
    Abstract: Support which absorbs the torsion to which blades are subjected during transport, comprising a set of pins (17) inserted in the floor (8) of the container (1) and to the sides of a hollow pipe (21), which connect by means of a clevis (18) to different rods (19) secured with fastening pins (20) that facilitate the lengthways and angular rotation of the unit. The first support is located at a distance “d” from the leading edge of the cradle (9), next to the platform (16) formed between the ribs (15) which run through the lower shell (14). The second support is located on the other side of the platform (16) also inserted between the aforementioned ribs (15). Both supports are inclined at an angle ? in relation to the floor (8), each forming articulated quadrilaterals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Gamesa Innovation & Technology, S.L.
    Inventor: Jose Ignacio Llorente Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7854578
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding an aerospace structure, having an edge and a surface, includes a base. Coupled to the base is an edge support adapted to releasably engage the edge of the structure. Also coupled to the base is a stanchion. Moveably coupled to the stanchion is a surface support adapted to support the surface of the structure when the edge of the structure is retained by the edge support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Daniel J. Wright, Gary E. Georgeson, Michael D. Fogarty
  • Patent number: 7744318
    Abstract: The invention is relative to a transport vehicle with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of cargo by the cargo itself. The invention has the problem of making a transport vehicle available that also makes possible the transport on highways of very bulky material, especially such material that exceeds the usual profile height of underpasses and bridges (freeway bridges, etc.). A transport vehicle for a rotor blade of a wind power system with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of the rotor blade by the rotor blade and that respectively comprise a holding device and/or receiving device for the rotor blade which holding device and/or receiving device is/are designed in such a manner that it/they permit(s) a rotation of the rotor blade about its longitudinal axis and that a drive for rotating the rotor blade is provided on the tractor and/or the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Aloys Wobben
  • Patent number: 7713007
    Abstract: A retaining apparatus for securing curved wind turbine rotor blades for at least one of storage and transport is described. The retaining apparatus includes an end frame configured to be connected to a root of a first blade and a connecting frame having a first end and a second end. The first end of the connecting frame is rotatably connected to the end frame. The retaining apparatus also includes a portion configured to be positioned at least partially around a tip of a second blade. The portion is rotatably connected to the second end of the connecting frame. The retaining apparatus also includes a turnbuckle having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the turnbuckle is rotatably connected to the end frame, the second end of the turnbuckle rotatably connected to the second end of the connecting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Dirk-Jan Kootstra
  • Patent number: 7690875
    Abstract: A method of transporting and storing a wind turbine blade includes providing a wind turbine blade including a blade root having a longitudinal central axis and a blade tip. The wind turbine blade curves in an unloaded state in such a manner that the blade presents a substantially concave face and a substantially convex face, and such that the blade tip is spaced apart from the longitudinal central axis of the blade root. The wind turbine blade is prestressed at a distance from the blade root in such a manner that the blade tip is brought closer to the longitudinal central axis of the blade root.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: LM Glasfiber A/S
    Inventor: Peter Grabau
  • Patent number: 7670090
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Transportation Technology Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
  • Publication number: 20090274529
    Abstract: Transportation tooling of the type that borders the blade at its root and at an intermediate point. This tooling is used in combination with platforms placed on the transportation elements and said platforms can move transversely and turn or rotate with respect to the means of transportation without affecting blade integrity. A method for blade transportation with the point of one blade facing the point of the adjacent blade so as to use the minimum space on the means of transportation. The rail tooling takes into account the maximum corner radius that the train will encounter while absorbing the bending and torsion stress acting on the blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Daniel A. Broderick, Juan Moya Garcia, Lou M. Lofranco
  • Patent number: 7607873
    Abstract: A trailer assembly for transporting one or more vertically-oriented panels includes a frame having front and rear sections, a first set of lower crossbeams extending laterally across the front section of the frame, and a second set of lower crossbeams extending laterally across the rear section of the frame. The crossbeams provide vertical support for the panel(s). A hitch extending from the front section of the frame is attachable to a towing vehicle. A set of front vertical members extend upwardly from either the hitch or the frame. A set of front crossbeams extend laterally between the front vertical members and a set of rear crossbeams extend laterally between the rear vertical members. The front and rear crossbeams impede longitudinal movement of the panel(s). A set of wheels axially mounted on struts extend laterally from oppositely facing sides of the rear section of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: 21st Century Structures, LLC
    Inventors: Richard F. Wehrli, Joseph Gallione
  • Patent number: 7591621
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Transportation Technology Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
  • Patent number: 7429156
    Abstract: In a method and a vehicle for the transport of a long windmill wing (2), the windmill wing is suspended at its one end on a hydraulic system (4, 11), which is adjustable in the height and is arranged rotatably on a tractive vehicle (3), and is secured at its opposite end to a non-tractive vehicle (5) which has a rotatable and height-adjustable carrier arrangement. Hereby, the distance between the lowermost edge of the windmill wing and the road surface may be adjusted in a great range, which is advantageous during transport where the windmill wing (2) is to be moved through viaducts or is to negotiate a road bend where a sign may be placed at a corner. Thus, a vehicle is achieved which may be used for the transport of very long windmill wings (2), where the manoeuvrability is optimum under various conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Vamdrup Specialtransport ApS
    Inventor: Jørgen E. Jensen
  • Patent number: 7377733
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding an aerospace structure, having an edge and a surface, includes a base. Coupled to the base is an edge support adapted to releasably engage the edge of the structure. Also coupled to the base is a stanchion. Moveably coupled to the stanchion is a surface support adapted to support the surface of the structure when the edge of the structure is retained by the edge support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Daniel J. Wright, Gary E. Georgeson, Michael D. Fogarty
  • Patent number: 7326013
    Abstract: A support structure for supporting and tilting an oversized cargo to reduce the effective width of the cargo. The structure comprises a bolster frame having a base and a stanchion connected to the base. The stanchion extends upwardly from a lower end connected to the base to an upper end opposite the lower end. A cylindrical roller supported is by the upper end of the stanchion for rotational movement relative to the stanchion about a rotational axis. The cylindrical roller is also supported by the stanchion for pivotal movement relative to the stanchion such that the rotational axis pivots relative to the stanchion. The bolster frame also includes a bearing pad connected to the base. The cylindrical roller and the bearing pad at least partially support the oversized cargo. The support structure may be mounted on a trailer for transporting oversized cargo, such as concrete double-tees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: The Cretex Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: John Scott Heuvel, Douglas E. Colclasure, Robert J. Hassey, Thomas A. Holmes, Ordean F. Johnson, John G. Nanna, Craig R. Wagenbach
  • Patent number: 7303365
    Abstract: The invention is relative to a transport vehicle with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of cargo by the cargo itself. The invention has the problem of making a transport vehicle available that also makes possible the transport on highways of very bulky material, especially such material that exceeds the usual profile height of underpasses and bridges (freeway bridges, etc.). A transport vehicle for a rotor blade of a wind power system with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of the rotor blade by the rotor blade and that respectively comprise a holding device and/or receiving device for the rotor blade which holding device and/or receiving device is/are designed in such a manner that it/they permit(s) a rotation of the rotor blade about its longitudinal axis and that a drive for rotating the rotor blade is provided on the tractor and/or the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Aloys Wobben
  • Patent number: 7204665
    Abstract: A support structure for supporting and tilting an oversized cargo to reduce the effective width of the cargo. The structure comprises a bolster frame having a base and a stanchion connected to the base. The stanchion extends upwardly from a lower end connected to the base to an upper end opposite the lower end. A cylindrical roller supported is by the upper end of the stanchion for rotational movement relative to the stanchion about a rotational axis. The cylindrical roller is also supported by the stanchion for pivotal movement relative to the stanchion such that the rotational axis pivots relative to the stanchion. The bolster frame also includes a bearing pad connected to the base. The cylindrical roller and the bearing pad at least partially support the oversized cargo. The support structure may be mounted on a trailer for transporting oversized cargo, such as concrete double-tees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: The Cretex Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: John Scott Heuvel, Douglas E. Colclasure, Robert J. Hassey, Thomas A. Holmes, Ordean F. Johnson, John G. Nanna, Craig R. Wagenbach
  • Publication number: 20020170821
    Abstract: A cobalt-chromium-boron-platinum sputtering target alloy having multiple phases. The alloy can include Cr, B, Ta, Nb, C, Mo, Ti, V, W, Zr, Zn, Cu, Hf, O, Si or N. The alloy is prepared by mixing Pt powder with a cobalt-chromium-boron master alloy, ball milling the powders and HIP'ing to densify the powder into the alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Sandlin, Bernd Kunkel, Willy Zhang, Phillip Corno