Abstract:
A rotor blade for a wind turbine includes an internal support structure including a plurality of fixed, spaced support members extending in a chord-wise and span-wise direction and defining a generally aerodynamic contour of the rotor blade. A plurality of the support members have an outer surface with a longitudinally extending slot defined therein. A plurality of fabric strips are attached over the internal support structure in a tensioned state and define an aerodynamic outer skin. The fabric strips extend over and are attached to the support members with a longitudinally extending insert member that presses the fabric strips into the slot and lockingly engages within the slot.
Abstract:
Frame assemblies, molds, and methods for forming rotor blades are provided. A frame assembly for a rotor blade mold includes a plurality of frames, at least one of the plurality of frames movable relative to the others of the plurality of frames, and a bed supported by the plurality of frames. Movement of the at least one of the plurality of frames causes a modification of the bed along a width-wise axis. A mold for forming a rotor blade includes a frame assembly and a mold material disposed in the bed of the frame assembly.