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

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

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

Abstract: A system for manufacturing a panel includes a support frame, a first caul plate arranged atop the support frame, a second caul plate arranged atop the first caul plate, and a heating assembly having a housing defining an inlet and an outlet. The housing includes one or more heaters. The heater(s) is configured to generate heat and the housing is configured to generate a first pressurized gas film. Thus, one or more layers of material to be consolidated may be placed between the first and second caul plates and drawn through the heating assembly as the heating assembly applies pressure to the one or more layers of material to be consolidated via the first pressurized gas film in combination with applying the heat via the one or more heaters, thereby consolidating the panel.