Blade Pitch Alignment Monitoring via Sensor Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring and maintaining relative blade pitch angle alignment in rotary devices, such as wind turbines, are inadequate, leading to inefficiencies and imbalances that affect performance and power output.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the collection and calibration of data from blade sensors, application of a calibration correction factor, and classification of relative blade pitch angle alignment, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustment to optimize aerodynamic efficiency and balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If blade pitch alignment is monitored using conventional methods, then basic alignment information is obtained, but measurement precision and reliability are insufficient leading to performance inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical alignment monitoring methods with sensor-based detection systems. Accelerometers and gyroscopes are installed on rotor blades to electronically measure pitch angles and misalignments, providing continuous real-time data that significantly improves measurement precision compared to traditional mechanical gauges or visual inspection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring blade pitch angles through sensors and using this information to adjust blade positioning. The measured misalignment data is fed back to control systems that can actively correct pitch angle deviations, ensuring optimal alignment is maintained throughout operation, thereby preventing performance losses.
2Productivity
If blade pitch alignment is not continuously monitored, then device complexity is reduced, but aerodynamic efficiency and power output are compromised due to undetected misalignments
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is designed with multi-functionality to justify its complexity. The same sensor platform (accelerometers and gyroscopes) serves multiple purposes: measuring blade pitch angles, detecting rotor speed, identifying vibration patterns, and providing diagnostic information about blade conditions. This universal approach maximizes the value derived from the added system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation by automatically detecting and reporting pitch misalignments without requiring manual inspection. The sensors continuously self-monitor blade positions and automatically generate alignment data, reducing the need for operator intervention and maintenance while ensuring continuous optimal performance.
3Measurement precision
If calibration correction factors are applied to sensor data, then measurement accuracy is improved, but processing time and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Calibration correction factors are determined and stored in advance during system installation or initial operation. These pre-calculated correction values account for sensor mounting variations and individual blade characteristics. During normal operation, the system simply applies these stored correction factors to raw sensor readings, avoiding the need for complex real-time calibration calculations and minimizing processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method of monitoring relative blade pitch angle alignment of a set of at least two rotor blades in a rotary device. The rotary device may be a wind turbine generator. Also disclosed are operational schemes based on the observed relative blade pitch angle alignments.