Wind Turbine Pitch System for Extreme-Wind Load Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine control systems struggle to effectively manage high loads during extreme wind conditions characterized by a combination of changing wind speed and direction, leading to inefficient power output and potential component damage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that monitor the rate of change of wind direction and speed to adjust pitch system controls, setting thresholds for load management and power output, using sensors and control signals to mitigate high loads and maintain efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the wind turbine control system reacts to very small changes in wind conditions, then the responsiveness is improved, but the wear of actuators increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts its responsiveness by using different thresholds for different operating conditions. During extreme wind conditions, the system uses higher thresholds to filter out small variations, while during normal operation it can respond more sensitively to maintain optimal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of control sensitivity by introducing rate-of-change detection and threshold-based filtering. This allows the control system to adapt its response characteristics based on the current wind conditions, reducing actuator wear during turbulent conditions while maintaining responsiveness during stable operation.
2Strength
If the wind turbine control system reacts slowly to wind changes, then the actuator wear is reduced, but the electrical power production decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary detection of extreme wind conditions using rate-of-change analysis before significant load increases occur. This allows the system to take preventive action by adjusting pitch angles in advance, protecting the turbine from extreme loads while maintaining optimal power production during the transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from multiple sensors (wind speed, wind direction, rotor speed, load sensors) to continuously monitor operating conditions and adjust control actions accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that the system responds appropriately to actual conditions, maximizing power production while minimizing unnecessary actuator movements.
3Productivity
If the wind turbine operates according to the predefined power curve, then the electrical power output is maximized, but the loads become unacceptably high during extreme wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system detects extreme wind conditions in advance using rate-of-change analysis of wind speed and direction. When such conditions are detected, the system proactively adjusts the pitch angles to reduce aerodynamic thrust before the predefined power curve would cause excessive loads, thereby protecting components while maintaining acceptable power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by counteracting the increasing loads through pitch angle adjustments before the loads reach dangerous levels. This preventive measure allows the turbine to survive extreme wind events without structural damage while minimizing the impact on power production.
4Productivity
If the pitch angles are adjusted frequently to maintain power output, then the electrical power production is maximized, but the actuator wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts pitch angles based on the detected wind conditions and rate of change. During extreme wind events, the system makes larger, less frequent adjustments to maintain power output, while during normal operation it makes smaller, more precise adjustments. This dynamic approach balances power production with actuator wear reduction.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method comprises receiving a wind direction signal and one or more signals indicative of an instantaneous wind speed at the wind turbine and determining a rate of change of the wind direction at the wind turbine and an indication of a rate of change of wind speed at the wind turbine. The method further comprises determining a control signal for a pitch system of the wind turbine at least partially based on the determined rate of change of the wind direction and the determined indication of the rate of change of wind speed. The present disclosure further relates to control systems for wind turbines which are configured to implement such methods. The present disclosure further relates to methods of operating wind turbines.