Wind Turbine Blade Load Sensor Calibration via Generator Motor Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calibrating blade load sensors in wind turbines are time-consuming and costly, especially for offshore turbines, as they often require manual intervention or lengthy data collection during idle operations, which can be influenced by wind conditions.
Innovation Solution
Operating the main generator as a motor using a power electronic converter to set blades in predetermined conditions, allowing for direct measurement and calibration of load sensors independently of wind conditions, using both theoretical and experimental reference loads for accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration is performed by mechanically acting on the wind turbine to set the blade in a particular position, then the load sensors can be recalibrated regularly, but the calibration process takes a long time and is especially expensive for offshore wind turbines because operators need to go where the wind turbine is located
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine performs its own calibration automatically using its existing components (main generator, power electronic converter, and control unit) without requiring external manual intervention. The system uses self-generated test loads by operating the main generator as a motor to apply controlled forces to the blade, eliminating the need for operators to travel to offshore locations for manual calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration actions with an automated electrical control system. Instead of mechanically positioning the blade using manual methods, the control unit operates the power electronic converter to electrically control the main generator, which then applies precise test loads to the blade through electrical-mechanical conversion, automating the entire calibration process.
2Ease of operation
If automatic calibration is performed by recording several minutes of data during idle operation, then the calibration can be performed while the turbine is running, but it can take a long time depending on the wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the main generator from its normal power generation mode to a motor mode for calibration purposes. By operating the main generator as a motor with controlled electrical input, the system generates precise test loads on the blade independent of wind conditions, enabling rapid calibration without waiting for specific wind conditions or extended idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The power electronic converter acts as an intermediary between the control unit and the main generator, enabling precise control of electrical power to the generator during calibration. This intermediary device allows the system to apply controlled test loads to the blade by converting electrical energy to mechanical force, facilitating accurate and rapid calibration without direct manual intervention.
3Measurement precision
If the main generator is operated as a motor to set the blade in predetermined conditions, then calibration can be performed independently of wind conditions, but additional control systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The main generator is designed to serve multiple functions: its primary function of generating electricity during normal operation and its secondary function of being operated as a motor for calibration purposes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate calibration equipment, as the same main generator component is used for both power generation and calibration testing, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the added control requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power electronic converter serves as an intermediary that enables the main generator to operate in reverse (as a motor) for calibration purposes. This intermediary device provides the necessary electrical control to convert the generator into a motor, allowing precise application of test loads without requiring additional mechanical calibration equipment or complex external systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method significantly reduces calibration time by enabling precise and efficient calibration of blade load sensors in both static and dynamic conditions, improving accuracy and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
acting on the power electronic converter to operate the main generator as motor to set the blade in at least one predetermined condition
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3c
AI summary
Method of calibrating one or more load sensors of a blade of a wind turbine, said wind turbine comprising a main generator, a power electronic converter connected with the main generator, and a rotor operationally connected with the main generator and carrying the blade. The method comprises acting on the power electronic converter to operate the main generator as motor to set the blade in at least one predetermined condition. The method further comprises measuring loads in the predetermined condition using the load sensors of the blade and calibrating the blade load sensors taking into account the measured loads.