Stowed As Bridge Between Trucks Or Across Cars Or On Drop-center (schnabel Type) Car Patents (Class 410/45)
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Patent number: 12110863Abstract: The present invention relates to a wind turbine rotor blade spacer, a transportation and storage system for wind turbine rotor blades and a related method that prevent the vertical flexion of each one of the blades assemblies, minimizing the stresses and avoiding the contact between vertically and/or horizontally adjacent blades, and in consequence, blade damage. Also, the overall occupied surface by the system once assembled is minimised.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2021Date of Patent: October 8, 2024Assignee: NORDEX ENERGY SPAIN, S.A.U.Inventors: Unai Arraztoa Magaña, Ander Gastón Lujambio, Miguel Núñez Polo, Enrique Domínguez Domínguez, David Martínez Rodríguez
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Patent number: 11241762Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 21, 2017Date of Patent: February 8, 2022Assignee: LM WIND POWER US TECHNOLOGY APSInventor: Roelof Willem Schuring
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Patent number: 11027753Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 31, 2020Date of Patent: June 8, 2021Inventor: Wellington Corbin, Jr.
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Patent number: 10995735Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 31, 2019Date of Patent: May 4, 2021Assignee: BNSF Logistics, LLCInventors: Andrew J. Sullivan, James H. Jones, III, Billy R. Goodwin
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Patent number: 10961983Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 26, 2017Date of Patent: March 30, 2021Assignee: Doosan Heavy Industries Construction Co., LtdInventors: Sung Rae Lee, Ki Hak Lee
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Patent number: 10857663Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 2, 2019Date of Patent: December 8, 2020Assignee: TPI Composites, Inc.Inventors: Mehmet Üyünük, Furkan Ünal
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Patent number: 9950814Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 24, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Nicholas Bjone
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Patent number: 9718564Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 16, 2017Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Nicholas Bjone
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Patent number: 9567969Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 10, 2015Date of Patent: February 14, 2017Assignee: BHSF Logistics, LLCInventor: Sigurd Ernir Sigurdsson
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Patent number: 9522626Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 19, 2015Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Steen Mattrup Hansen, Aage Mastrup, Kenneth Helligsoe Svinth
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Patent number: 9254775Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 17, 2013Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: DOOSAN HEAVY INDUSTRIES & CONSTRUCTION CO., LTD.Inventor: Ki Hak Lee
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Patent number: 9221379Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 17, 2015Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/SInventor: Stephen Randall
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Patent number: 9199570Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 17, 2013Date of Patent: December 1, 2015Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Tom Pedersen, Jens Thomsen
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Patent number: 9120417Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/SInventor: Stephen Randall
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Patent number: 8998546Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Assignee: Liftra ApSInventor: Per E Fenger
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Patent number: 8960722Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 12, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Harvest International, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey A. Sivinski, Garry D. Friesen, Byron J. Friesen
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Patent number: 8956100Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 3, 2012Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Michael Alan Davi, Paul Robert Fernandez, John William Herbold, Andrew Thomas Hynous, Sean O'Meara
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Patent number: 8931985Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 17, 2012Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Mammoet USA South, Inc.Inventor: Piet Nooren
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Patent number: 8920083Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 6, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Eric M. Peterson
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Publication number: 20140369779Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2012Publication date: December 18, 2014Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/SInventor: Stephen Randall
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Publication number: 20140286723Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2014Publication date: September 25, 2014Applicant: TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES, INC.Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
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Patent number: 8834082Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 10, 2014Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Transportation Technology Services, Inc.Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
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Publication number: 20140169903Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2012Publication date: June 19, 2014Inventor: Piet Nooren
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Publication number: 20140169904Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2012Publication date: June 19, 2014Inventor: Piet Nooren
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Patent number: 8753050Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 8, 2010Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Inventors: Bernd Cyrus, Frank Lülker
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Patent number: 8641339Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 25, 2012Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Karsten Schibsbye, John T. Sullivan
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Publication number: 20130343827Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventors: KARSTEN SCHIBSBYE, JOHN T. SULLIVAN
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Patent number: 8591155Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 30, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventors: Timothy Lawlor, Brian O'Connell
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Patent number: 8511921Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 7, 2009Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Scott Gabell Riddell, Michael Claude Ebner, Rene Michel Beukers, Hendrik Cejus de Roo
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Patent number: 8382407Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 5, 2012Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: BNSF Railway CompanyInventors: Scott Landrum, Eric Thompson
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Patent number: 8322965Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 1, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Inventor: Francis V. Smith
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Patent number: 8306695Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/SInventor: Gunnar Kamp Storgaard Pedersen
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Patent number: 8192117Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 25, 2011Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: BNSF Railway CompanyInventors: Scott Landrum, Eric Thompson
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Patent number: 8096739Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 8, 2009Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: BNSF Railway CompanyInventors: Scott Landrum, Eric Thompson
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Patent number: 7985039Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 12, 2010Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Inventor: Aloys Wobben
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Patent number: 7967536Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 2, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Gamesa Innovation & Technology, S.L.Inventors: Daniel A Broderick, Juan Moya Garcia, Lou M Lofranco
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Patent number: 7918633Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 27, 2008Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Gamesa Innovation & Technology, S.L.Inventor: Jose Ignacio Llorente Gonzalez
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Patent number: 7854578Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 11, 2008Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Daniel J. Wright, Gary E. Georgeson, Michael D. Fogarty
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Patent number: 7744318Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Inventor: Aloys Wobben
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Patent number: 7713007Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Dirk-Jan Kootstra
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Patent number: 7690875Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 9, 2004Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: LM Glasfiber A/SInventor: Peter Grabau
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Patent number: 7670090Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 12, 2008Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Transportation Technology Services, Inc.Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
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Publication number: 20090274529Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2008Publication date: November 5, 2009Inventors: Daniel A. Broderick, Juan Moya Garcia, Lou M. Lofranco
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Patent number: 7607873Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 21, 2006Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: 21st Century Structures, LLCInventors: Richard F. Wehrli, Joseph Gallione
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Patent number: 7591621Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: Transportation Technology Services, Inc.Inventors: Scott C. Landrum, T. Christopher King
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Patent number: 7429156Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 28, 2005Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: Vamdrup Specialtransport ApSInventor: Jørgen E. Jensen
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Patent number: 7377733Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 15, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Daniel J. Wright, Gary E. Georgeson, Michael D. Fogarty
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Patent number: 7326013Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 6, 2007Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: 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
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Patent number: 7303365Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 8, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Aloys Wobben
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Patent number: 7204665Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 2, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: 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