Multirotor Wind Turbine Control for Yaw-Moment Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multirotor wind turbines experience uneven loads due to differences in wind conditions and operational states of energy generating units, which can lead to excessive yaw moments and potential damage to components if not accounted for during design.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling multirotor wind turbines by generating coordinated control commands for energy generating units to maintain the yaw moment of the yaw arrangement below a predefined threshold, ensuring synchronized operation and balanced loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If energy generating units are operated independently to maximize individual power production, then productivity is improved, but uneven loads and yaw moments increase causing potential damage to components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple energy generating units under a coordinated control system that considers the combined effect on yaw moments. Instead of independent operation, the control commands for different units are generated together to achieve both high power production and balanced loads, resolving the contradiction between productivity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts operational parameters (such as rotor speeds, pitch angles, or power output) of energy generating units based on real-time conditions. By changing these parameters coordinate dly across multiple units, the system maintains high productivity while preventing excessive yaw moments that would compromise component safety.
2Strength
If additional material is added to withstand expected uneven loads, then strength is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing coordinated control that proactively balances loads before excessive yaw moments can develop. This preventive approach eliminates the need for over-engineering components with additional material, allowing the wind turbine to be manufactured with optimized, cost-effective materials while still withstanding operational loads.
3Reliability
If coordinated operation is implemented to balance loads, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system that performs multiple functions: it monitors individual unit performance, calculates combined yaw moments, generates coordinated control commands, and ensures both power production and load balance. This multi-functional approach achieves reliable load balancing without requiring separate complex systems for each function, thereby managing device complexity effectively.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a multirotor wind turbine comprising two or more energy generating units is disclosed. At least one load carrying structure is connected to a foundation or to a tower via a yaw arrangement, and the load carrying structure carries the at least two energy generating units. A requirement to a change in operation of at least a first of the energy generating units is detected. Control commands for the first energy generating unit and for at least a second energy generating unit, mounted on the same load carrying structure, are generated. The control commands cause the required change in operation, and the control commands cause coordinated operation of at least the first energy generating unit and the second energy generating unit. The control commands are generated under the constraint that a yaw moment of the yaw arrangement is maintained below a predefined threshold level.