DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to a holding mechanism for FRP objects at definite height and orientation, automatically using linear actuator, and more specifically to an improved method of bonding a shear web to a wind turbine blade shell.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The main structural component of a wind turbine blade is a large spar or spars that run the span (length) of the blade, connecting the (HP) and (LP) skins, creating an internal “I” beam. These spars are typically referred to as shear web(s), given their structural function within the blade. They absorb and transmit shear forces from the loaded skins. Similarly, the critical phase of positioning and bonding the Shear Web(s) to the skin laminate is much more time consuming and usually requires heavy machinery in which to move the shear web(s) from its mould to the skin mould, as well as large complex fixtures in which to locate, hold, and support the shear web(s) while the bonding material sets.

It has always been a challenge for manufacturers of large composite parts like wind turbine blades, to hold “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic) with equal clamping force. Various types of manual clamps have been tried, like C clamps, Toggle clamps or Simple bolting techniques.

WO2009109619 A2 discloses a method and a tool for assembling a spar and aerofoil section of a blade of a wind turbine. Said tool comprises an alignment tool facilitating alignment of multiple supporting posts. In this invention the supporting posts may be height adjustable and may facilitate positioning of spars of different size, as the cross-sectional area may be different for spars of different length. Especially, as the angle of tapering of the spar may not necessarily be the same for spars of different size.

US 5547629A teaches about a method for manufacturing a one-piece molded composite airfoil that are manufactured from molded carbon filament materials, with internal support structures integrally formed in a single closed mold operation. A mold having a cavity defining the outer shape of the airfoil is opened and precut, pre-preg fiber material and core material is placed in the mold halves to cure outer skins and the internal reinforcement structure together as an integral unit. In said method more than two resilient mandrels are placed in contact with the precut sheets of pre-preg fiber to press the sheets and core into contact with the mold upon subsequent closure thereof. After the airfoil is removed from the cavity, the resilient mandrels are removed by pulling them from an open end of the airfoil.

US6805548 B1 relates to a machine for blow-molding thermoplastic products comprising two mobile supports hinged in relation to each other and controlled by a mechanism between an open and a closed position. This mechanism can be used for clamping any FRP material having shape of a half tube like semi-cylindrical half-molds.

According to WO 2010076605 A1, two mold half-shells mounted on support structures are pivoted in relation to one another until peripheries of the mold half-shells are positioned one above the other, and a rotor-blade half-shell is positioned in each of the two mold half-shells. Between the rotor-blade half-shells, an adhesive-bonding compound is applied to the periphery of the lower rotor-blade half-shell. The two mold half-shells are engaged one inside the other by means of a driven hook, the hook executing a combined rotary and translatory movement, wherein the two movements are coupled directly to one another.

DE 202010014682 U1 talks about a mold assembly for the manufacture of rotor blades for wind turbines having a first mold part and movably received second mold part. Particularly, one pivoting direction for the second mold part by means of the pivot from a position adjacent to the first mold part in one congruent position can be brought over the first mold part, wherein the pivoting means comprises at least one support member which is movably received about a first pivot bearing and is provided with a second pivot bearing for a tilting movement of the second mold part to the second pivot bearing.

However, such methods are laborious, do not provide equal clamping force, and rely on careful workers for proper application and removal. Further available prior-art are used for different purposes and do not particularly talks about holding mechanism for shear webs in rotor blade of wind turbines capable of least damage to FRP object, firm holding, definite position of the same in vertical plane as well remote automation to eliminate human intervention. Therefore, the objective of the invention is to propose a new and simple holding mechanism for “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP in an automatic controlled manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an automatic holding of “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP to be realized without any manual intervention. More over present invention solves the problem such as higher amount of labour as well operational time for installing, ensures that sufficient safe and secure environment is achieved, and prevents any possibility that the workers will forget to remove the holding devices once the bonding process of a shear web into a wind turbine blade shell is completed.

The principal object of the present invention is to provide a novel apparatus for holding of “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP material by automated control system.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an automated holding mechanism consisting of hook arms, height adjustable stopper plate, hook arm guide pins, hinge pin, liner actuator, and vertical position adjustable stopper plates for an “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having hook arms which are connected with hinge pin and located into hook plate bracket.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having hook roller which are connected at the end of the hook arms for firmly hold ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped objects.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having a hinge pin is fasten with actuator rod and hook arms and assemble into hook plate bracket. Moreover, hinge pin enables mechanical linkage movements to hook arms.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having hook arm guide pins directs the motion to hook arms for open and close position of the hook and located in the guide ways.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having stopper plate gives definite position to the object in vertical plane.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having linear actuator turns the hook arms into open and close position through the hinge pin.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a simplified holding mechanism without any risk to “I” or “T” shaped FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic) object.

One of the objects of the invention is to provide holding mechanism for an “I” or “T” shaped FRP object to be in accurate position in vertical plane. Particularly, to hold the said object at definite height.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having detachably attached vertical position support arms which gives firmly support to the objects having more length.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having vertical position adjustable stopper plates which are located on the vertical position support arms. Moreover, vertical position adjustable stopper plates automatically adjust as per the shape of the object and hold the object firmly.

The other object of the present invention is to provide holding mechanism with latching effect in a controlled and automated manner. Particularly, by means of controlling movements of a linear actuator remotely and so as the hook arms to hold the object safely.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having an automation module to store the pre-set values according to thickness of multiple ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web(s) of the wind turbine blade during close position operation of the hook apparatus by means of measuring and analysing the said values.

These and other objects, advantages and features result from the following description of a preferred embodiment of an atomised holding mechanism for “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP of the invention disclosed by way of non-limitative example in the figures of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1a: illustrate perspective view of open position of the apparatus.
Figure 1b: illustrate close position of the apparatus.
Figure 2: illustrate plan view, elevation view and side view of an Apparatus.
Figure 3: discloses exploded view of the apparatus.
Figure 4: discloses the apparatus with detachably attached vertical support arms.
Figure 5: discloses exploded view of the apparatus with detachably attached vertical support arms.
Figure 6: discloses plan view, elevation view and side view of the apparatus with detachably attached vertical support arms.
Figure 7: discloses as an example of apparatus in working.
Figure 8: discloses an automated system of linear actuator.
Figure 9: discloses an automated system of electrical actuator.
Figure 10: discloses an example of hook operates ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web having a more length.
Figure 11: discloses an example of hook operates ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web having comparatively less length.
Figure 12: illustrate an example of hook having vertical support arms with vertical stopper plate which is firmly hold the ‘I’ shaped shear web.
Figure 13: illustrate details of hook arms.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The Figures and the following description relate to embodiments by way of illustration only. It should be noted that from the following discussion, alternative embodiments of the structures and methods disclosed herein will be readily recognized as viable alternatives that may be employed without departing from the principles of what is claimed. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of 'including', 'comprising', 'having', 'containing', 'involving', and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

Present invention proposes a new control mechanism advantages over the available methods for holding of “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP like zero damage to the object made from FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic), firm holding of the object through hook arms, definite positioning of the said object in vertical plane through stopper plate, holding of the object at definite height through stopper plate and atomization through actuator by operating it remotely and involves no manual intervention.

The principal embodiment of the invention is to provide a holding mechanism 100 comprising: liner actuator 1, hook arms 3, height adjustable stopper plate 6, hook arm guide pins 5, hinge pin 4, vertical position adjustable stopper plates 12 and vertical position support arms 11 for an “I” or “T” shaped shear web(s) made from FRP. “FRP” or “Fibre-reinforced plastic” or “fiber-reinforced polymer” or “fiber-reinforced plastic” is defined as a composite material made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres. The fibres are usually glass (in fibreglass), carbon (in carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer), aramid, or basalt. Rarely, other fibres such as paper, wood, or asbestos have been used.

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide hook arms with hook roller connected to each other with hinge pin into hook plate bracket. Hook arm lifts ‘I’ or ‘T’ shape shear webs made from FRP. Hook roller is made up from soften material for protecting ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear webs. Hook arms with hook roller fasten with hinge pin and assembled whole mechanism into hook plate bracket.

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a hinge pin which enables mechanical linkage movements to hook arms. Hinge pin is fastened with liner actuator rod for vertical movement of hinge pin.

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide hook plate guide pins which directs the motion of hook arms for open and close position of the hook arms and located in the guide ways. Guide ways are provided to set limit of guides hook arms.

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide stopper plate gives definite position to the object in vertical plane. Stopper plate may automatically adjust as per the size and shape of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped web shear(s).

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide linear actuator which turns the hook arms into open and close position through the hinge pin. Linear actuator may pneumatic, electric or hydraulic.

The other embodiment of the present invention is to provide a simplified holding mechanism without any risk to “I” or “T” shaped FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic) object.

The other embodiment of the invention is to provide holding mechanism for an “I” or “T” shaped FRP object to be in accurate position in vertical plane. Particularly, to hold the said object at definite height.

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide detachably attached vertical position support arms gives firm support to the objects having definite length.

One of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide vertical position adjustable stopper plates automatically adjusts as per the shape of the object and hold the object firmly. The advantage of vertical position adjustable stopper is it can automatically adjust as per the shape of the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs. Vertical position adjustable stopper plates also adjust as per design of blade of wind turbine. Vertical position adjustable stopper has one degree of freedom said it can move only horizontal axis of said X axis of stopper.

The word ‘Degree of Freedom’ refers as the number of values involved in the calculation that have the freedom to vary. In general, degree of freedom is the value for Travers motion within X axis, Y axis and Z axis; rotational motion within X axis, Y axis and Z axis of mechanical linkage or any type of components.

The other embodiment of the invention is to provide holding mechanism with latching effect in a controlled and automated manner. Particularly, by means of controlling movements of a linear actuator remotely and so as the hook arms to hold the object safely.

One of the embodiments of the invention is to provide a simplified holding mechanism without any risk to “I” or “T” shaped FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic) object by means of controlling open and close movement of hook arms 3. As shown in Figure 1a, linear actuator 1 will push or pull the hinge pin 4 to turn the hook arms 3 into open and close condition ensuring zero damage as well firm holding of the said object. Figure 1 depicts view of a holding mechanism in an open condition according to present invention. Shear web(s) being the main structural component of a wind turbine blade and is a large spar or spars that run the span of the blade, connecting the higher plane (HP) and lower plane (LP) skins, creating an internal “I” beam. Lower Plane (LP) side has the loss of pressure associated with lift that pulls the blade forward, while the Higher Plane (HP) side retains positive pressure and aids in generating the vortices that generate lift.

One of the embodiments of the invention is to provide holding mechanism for an “I” or “T” shaped FRP object to be in accurate position in vertical plane by means of holding the said object at definite height through stopper plates 6 as shown in Figure 7.

One of the embodiments of the invention is to provide holding mechanism for automated and precise lifting of an “I” or “T” shaped FRP object as explained in Figure 8. For Example, linear actuator 1 pushes hinge pin 4 to open hook arms 3 or pulls hinge pin 4 to close hook arms 3 through hook plate guide pins 5 ensuring no damage said FRP object while holding operation. During holding phase, height adjustable stopper plate 6 gives definite position to the object in vertical plane and vertical position adjustable stopper plates 12 is used to hold the object at definite height. Further due to weight of the object it will be held safely in hook arms 3 without movement of linear actuator 1.

One of the embodiments of the invention is to provide holding mechanism with latching effect in a controlled and automated manner by means of controlling movements of a linear actuator 1 remotely as explained in Figure 8. For example, a pneumatic linear actuator can be used and operated remotely through control circuit 14, electrical controlled air valve 15, compressed air supply 16 and wireless remote control 17.

Another embodiment of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having an automation module to store the pre-set values according to thickness or width of multiple ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web(s) of the wind turbine blade during close position operation of the hook apparatus. The automation module defines close position of the automated holding mechanism for shear web(s) as hook rollers do not create excess force on the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web(s) and preventing damage of said shear web(s) which are made up of FRP material.

Moreover, the method of analysing and measuring thickness or width of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web(s) can be done by any conventional method. For an example automation module sensor is located on the holding apparatus to measure the thickness of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web during its first trial of operation. The automation module measures and analyses the dimensions of the that particular ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web and stores that data into programme memory; during second trial of operation of that particular holding apparatus on to said ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web; the hook arms are stopped at particular points only according to dimensions stored in memory programme and measured previously. Multiple number of holding apparatus 100 are used along the length of the wind turbine blade. Each of holding apparatus 100 can be pre-set by selecting an appropriate thickness of an ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web(s). Further the location of each holding apparatus 100 is selected such that the latching apparatus can surely hold the LP and HP of the wind turbine blade without damaging the shear web(s) made up of FRP.

Figure 1a illustrate a novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web(s). Hook plate bracket 2 consisting of operating mechanism wherein linear actuator 1 is connected upper side of hook plate bracket 2 by any conventional method of fastening. The linear actuator 1 consisting of actuator rod 13 which is connected with hinge pin 4 by passing through hole located on the actuator rod 13. Hook arms 3a & 3b are connected with hinge pin 4 by pivoting mechanism. Hook arm guide pins 5 guide hook arms 3a & 3b during operation and create limit through guide ways 9 for said hook arms 3a & 3b. Hook roller 7 are connected at the end of the hook arms 3a & 3b through roller pin 8 allows smooth rotational movements. Rotational movement of hook roller 7 allows safe and reliable holding operation. Further height adjustable stopper plate 6 is connected at the bottom side of hook bracket 2. Height adjustable stopper plate 6 has 4 degree of freedom said it can rotate 3600 on its vertical axis and linearly move on its vertical axis. The present invention does not limit its scope by 4 degree of freedom it may 6 degree of freedom. Figure 1a discloses an open position of a novel apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs.

Figure 1b illustrate third dimensional aspect with clarity of mechanical arrangement of the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ types shear webs. Moreover, Figure1b teaches close position of the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ types shear webs. During operation of holding ‘I’ or ‘T’ types shear webs; the apparatus 100 remains in close position. Hook rollers 7 provide quick, safe and reliable holding operation used in wind turbine rotor blade. Hook Rollers 7 are made from any soften material includes polymers, foams, gels, colloids, granular materials, nylon, etc. lower portion of height adjustable stopper plate 6 also made up from any soften material includes polymers, foams, gels, colloids, granular materials, etc.

Moreover, guide way for hook arms 9 and guide way for hinge pin 10 are constructed on the hook bracket 2. Guideways provides a smooth motion along predetermined path. Linear motion guideways provide a smooth and linear motion of hook arms due to increasing in accuracy.

Figure 2 illustrate plan view, elevation view and side view of the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs. The linear actuator 1 consisting of actuator rod 13 which is connected with hinge pin 4 by passing through hole located on the actuator rod 13. Hook arms 3a & 3b are connected with hinge pin 4 by pivoting mechanism.

Figure 3 illustrate exploded view of the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs. Here clearly defines the present invention; Hook plate bracket 2 consisting of operating mechanism wherein linear actuator 1 is attached upper side of hook plate bracket 2 by any conventional method of fastening. The linear actuator 1 consisting of actuator rod 13 which is connected with hinge pin 4 by passing through hole provided on the actuator rod 13. Hook arms 3a & 3b are connected with hinge pin 4 by pivoting mechanism. Hook arm guide pins 5 guide hook arms 3a & 3b during operation and create limit through guide ways 9 for said hook arms 3a & 3b. Hook roller 7 are connected at the end of the hook arms 3a & 3b through roller pin 8 allows smooth rotational movements. Rotational movement of hook roller 7 allows safe and reliable holding operation. Further height adjustable stopper plate 6 is connected at the bottom side of hook bracket 2. Height adjustable stopper plate 6 is fasten with hook plate bracket 2 and able to adjust automatically as per shape of the shear web(s). Height adjustable stopper plate 6 has 4 degree of freedom said it can rotate 3600 within its axis and linearly move on its vertical axis. Height adjustable stopper plate 6 having 4 degree of freedom such as said stopper plate 6 has rotational moment within its 3 axis that are X axis, Y axis and Z axis which means number of degrees of freedom is 3. Moreover, Height adjustable stopper plate 6 has travers motion within its Y axis that is vertical axis which means number of degrees of freedom is 1. So, the total number of degree of freedom of height adjustable stopper plate 6 is 4. The present invention does not limit its scope by 4 degree of freedom it may 6 degree of freedom that is height adjustable stopper plate 6 may rotates its X axis, Y axis and Z axis; also height adjustable stopper plate 6 may travers its X axis means horizontal, Y axis means vertical and Z axis means perpendicular so the number of degree of freedom is 6.

Figure 4 discloses the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs with detachably attached vertical position support arms. Hook plate bracket 2 consisting of operating mechanism wherein linear actuator 1 is attached upper side of hook plate bracket 2 by any conventional method of fastening. Hook arms 3a & 3b are connected with hinge pin 4 by pivoting mechanism. Vertical position support arms 11 are attached to the hook arms 3a & 3b as per requirement. Vertical support arms 11 gives firmly support to the objects having definite length. Wind turbine rotor blade has different height throughout section. Chord length is gradually decrees from root of blade to tip of blade whereas size of shear webs also decrees. When height of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs is more than vertical support arms 11 attached with hook arms 3a & 3b for firmly support to the shear webs. Vertical position adjustable stopper plates 12 adjust as per the shape of the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs. Vertical position adjustable stopper plates 12 may manually adjustable or it can automated by nut-bolt mechanism or rack and pinion mechanism.

Figure 5 discloses exploded view of the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs with detachably attached vertical position support arms. Hook plate bracket 2 consisting of operating mechanism wherein linear actuator 1 is attached upper side of hook plate bracket 2 by any conventional method of fastening. Hook arms 3a & 3b are connected with hinge pin 4 by pivoting mechanism. Vertical position support arms 11 are attached to the hook arms 3a & 3b as per requirement. Vertical support arms 11 give firm support to the objects having definite length. When height of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs is more than vertical support arms 11 attached with hook arms 3a & 3b for firm support to the shear webs. Vertical position adjustable stopper plates 12 adjust as per the shape of the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs. Vertical position support arms 11 are connected with hook arms 3a & 3b by means of any fastening mechanism, any push locking mechanism, any conventional mechanism or high accuracy electro magnet system can be used.

Figure 6 discloses plan view, elevation view and side view of the novel holding apparatus 100 for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs with detachably attached vertical position support arms wherein Vertical position support arms 11 are attached to the hook arms 3a & 3b as per requirement. Vertical support arms 11 gives firmly support to the objects having definite length. When height of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs is more than vertical support arms 11 attached with hook arms 3a & 3b for firmly support to the shear webs. Vertical position adjustable stopper plates 12 adjust as per the shape of the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs.

Figure 7 illustrate an example of the novel holding mechanism without and with detachably attached vertical position support arms for ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear webs. The hook arms 3 hold object A as shown in figure 7. The vertical position support arms 11 and vertical position adjustable stopper plate 12 hold the objects by means of zero damage of the object.

Figure 8 illustrate operating circuit for the pneumatic linear actuator 1. Linear actuator operated by wireless remote 17 gives command to the control unit 14. Compressed air tank 16 supply air by issuing command from control unit through electric control valve 15. Inlet for extend actuator rod 19 and inlet for collapsed actuator rod 18 are attached with pneumatic linear actuator 1.

Wireless remote 17 gives command to the control unit 14. By receiving command of extend or collapsed, control unit 14 activate electric control valve as per command.
a. Command of Extend:
i. Compressed air tank 16 stores pressurised air;
ii. During command of extend, electric valve 15 flow pressurised air from 16 to 19 direction;
iii. Due to pressurised air rod 13 of pneumatic linear actuator 1 move towards out side said extend.
b. Command of collapsed:
i. During command of collapsed, electric valve 15 flow pressurised air from 16 to 18 direction;
ii. Due to pressurised air rod 13 of pneumatic linear actuator 1 move towards inside said collapsed.

Figure 9 operating circuit for the electric linear actuator 1 with rack and pinion mechanism. The electric linear actuator is a piece of equipment that turns rotational motion into linear motion, through any type of mechanism such as rack and pinion mechanism, electro-magnet mechanism, etc. electric linear actuator consisting of rack and pinion mechanism which is controlled the action of extended and collapsed. Control unit 14 receives command from wireless remote control 17 and activate DC motor in a particular direction of extend or collapsed.

The present invention is not limited in using type of linear actuator to pneumatic actuators but can use other types also such as electric actuators, hydraulic actuators, etc. which can operate with any conventional mechanism.

‘The actuation mechanism’ word refers as an external source that controls movements of the linear actuator such as pneumatic controller, electrical controller, hydraulic control or any conventional method to control linear actuators.

The present invention consisting a method of operating an apparatus 100 wherein linear actuator 1 is operated with pneumatic controller or electrical controller. Linear actuator 1 consisting of actuator rod 13 having linear motion vertically, this actuator rod 13 comprises hole (not shown figure) at the end portion of the same. The hinge pin 4 is connected with hook arms 3a & 3b and fasten in the hole provided at the end of the actuator rod 13. During vertical downward motion of actuator rod 13, the hinge pin 4 which is connected in the hole of the actuator rod 13 and hook arms are also connected by pivoting mechanism with actuator rod 13 with help of hinge pin 4. Downward motion of the actuator rod 13 enables hook arms 3 into open position same way upward motion of the actuator rod 13 enables hook arms 3 into close position. Close position enables the apparatus to hang ‘I’ and ‘T’ shear web(s).

Figure 10 discloses an example of hook operates ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web having a more length. In aerofoil shaped wing structure have more skin support structure which provide strength to the wings. An automated holding mechanism 100 has been hold firmly to the long length of ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear webs 101. Same way Figure 11 illustrate an example of hook operates ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web 102 having less length with compare to long length ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web 101.

Figure 12 illustrate an example of hook 100 having vertical support arms 11 with vertical stopper plate 12 which is firmly hold the ‘T’ or ‘I’ shaped shear web 103. Height adjustable stopper plate 6 automatically rotate and adjust as per shape of shear web as shown in figure 12. An automated holding mechanism 100 with vertical supporting arms 11 having vertical stopper plate 12 which are automatically adjust to firmly hold the objects said ‘T’ shaped shear webs 104.

Figure 13 discloses top ends 3’a and 3” a [not shown in figure] connected with actuator rod 13. Moreover, holding arms 3’c and 3”c [not shown in figure] holds ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web(s). an angle 3’d between top ends 3’a and 3” a [not shown in figure] and mid arms 3’b and 3” b [not shown in figure] is between 00 to 1800.

Major advantage of the present invention is to provide quick, safe and reliable holding operation used in wind turbine rotor blade manufacturing units. Present invention provides a very simple holding mechanism to eliminate manual operation or complex and costly automations. Simple mechanism to replace conventional method with marginal increase in cost and reduced human fatigue and safe operation for men and machine is the novel feature of present invention.

The invention has been described with reference to the illustrated preferred embodiments. The invention is not unduly limited by this disclosure of the preferred embodiment described, instead it is intended that the invention be defined as their equivalents.
,CLAIMS:CLAIMS:

We Claim:

[CLAIM 1] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) comprises:
a) linear actuator 1 connected with hook plate bracket 2;
b) actuator rod 13 of the linear actuator 3 is connected with one end of hook arms 3a and 3b and another end of the hook arms 3a and 3b are holding arm;
c) linear actuator 1 controls opening and closing position of hook arms 3a and 3b by means of control mechanism located at remote place;
d) height adjustable stopper plate 6 is connected with one end of the hook plate bracket 2 by means of transvers mechanism provides linear motion to the said height adjustable stopper plate;
e) hook arms 3a and 3b consisting of:
i. top ends 3’a and 3” a connected with actuator rod 13;
ii. holding arms 3’c and 3”c holds shear web(s);
iii. an angle 3’d between top ends 3’a and 3” a and mid arms 3’b and 3” b is between 00 to 1800;
f) wherein automation module stores the pre-set values during close position and opening position operation of the said holding apparatus by means of measuring and analysis the said value.

[CLAIM 2] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 1 wherein hook arms are connected with hinge pin and located into hook plate bracket.

[CLAIM 3] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 1 wherein hook roller are connected at the end of the hook arms for firmly hold ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped objects.

[CLAIM 4] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 1 wherein hinge pin is fasten with actuator rod and hook arms and assemble into hook plate bracket.

[CLAIM 5] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 1 wherein hook plate guide pins directs the motion to hook arms for open and close position of the holding apparatus.

[CLAIM 6] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 1 wherein linear actuator turns the hook arms into open and close position through the hinge pin.

[CLAIM 7] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) comprises
a method:
a) linear movement of linear actuator 1 is controlled by the actuation mechanism;
b) linear actuator rod 13 moves downward and turns hook arms 3 into open position of the apparatus 100 during issuing command of extend;
c) open position of the apparatus 100 allows to hold ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web(s);
d) linear actuator 13 moves upward and turns hook arms 3 into close position of the apparatus 100 during issuing command of collapsed;
e) Close position of the apparatus 100 firmly suspended the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web(s).

[CLAIM 8] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 7 wherein actuation mechanism consisting of pneumatic controller, electrical controller, hydraulic control or any conventional method to control linear actuators.

[CLAIM 9] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 7 wherein command of extend turns the actuator into open position.

[CLAIM 10] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 7 wherein command of collapsed turns the actuator into close position.

[CLAIM 11] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed in claim 1 wherein automation module to store the pre-set values according to thickness or width of multiple ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web(s) of the wind turbine blade during close position operation of the hook apparatus by means of measuring and analysis the said values.

[CLAIM 12] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 11 wherein the automation module measures and analyses the dimensions of the that particular ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web and stores that data into programme memory.

[CLAIM 13] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 11 wherein the hook arms are stopped at particular points only according to dimensions stored in memory programme and measured previously.

[CLAIM 14] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 11 wherein multiple number of holding apparatus 100 are attached along the length of the wind turbine blade and each of holding apparatus 100 are be pre-set by selecting an appropriate thickness of an ‘I’ or ‘T’ shaped shear web(s).

[CLAIM 15] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in claim 11 wherein hook rollers do not create excess force on the ‘I’ or ‘T’ shear web(s) and preventing damage of said shear web(s) which are made up of FRP material.

[CLAIM 16] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in previous claim wherein a simplified holding mechanism holds “I” or “T” shaped FRP (Fibre-reinforced plastic) object without any risk.

[CLAIM 17] An automated holding apparatus for shear web(s) as claimed
in previous claim wherein holding mechanism with latching effect in a controlled and automated manner, Particularly, by means of controlling movements of a linear actuator remotely and so as the hook arms to hold the object safely.