Wind Turbine Nacelle Orientation Using GNSS Locus Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual methods for determining the orientation of a wind turbine nacelle are prone to human error, and existing technologies require complex calibration processes to accurately determine the nacelle's orientation relative to true North.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) sensor to yaw the nacelle between series of orientations, obtaining locus data, and determining the orientation based on stored data and new position measurements, with optional correction using accelerometers for vibration direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual methods are used to determine nacelle orientation, then the process is simple to perform, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to human error

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of orientation determinationVSAvoidaccuracy of orientation measurement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical orientation determination with an automated electronic system using GNSS sensors and control units. The control unit automatically calculates orientation by processing GNSS position data, eliminating human error while maintaining operational simplicity through automated procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically determining the locus of the GNSS sensor and calculating orientation without requiring manual intervention. The control unit independently processes the calibration positions and new positions to determine nacelle orientation, making the system self-sufficient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If existing positioning systems are used to determine yaw angle, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases due to complex calibration processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of nacelle orientationVSAvoidcomplexity of calibration process

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary calibration by determining the locus of the GNSS sensor through a series of calibration positions before actual orientation measurement. This preliminary action establishes the reference frame and sensor characteristics, simplifying subsequent measurements while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit continuously monitors GNSS positions and compares them against the stored locus data to determine current nacelle orientation. The system uses feedback from the GNSS sensor readings to automatically calculate and update orientation information, reducing the need for manual calibration interventions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If multiple calibration positions are measured to determine locus data, then the measurement precision improves, but the loss of time increases during the calibration process

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of orientation determinationVSAvoidcalibration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system determines the locus using a limited number of calibration positions (at least two, preferably three) rather than requiring exhaustive measurement. This partial action approach provides sufficient precision for orientation determination while minimizing calibration time and resource expenditure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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 provides accurate and reliable determination of the nacelle's orientation with high precision, reducing human error and simplifying the calibration process, allowing for efficient operation and performance analysis of wind turbines.

Implementation Method 1

the nacelle carries a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) sensor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGlobal Navigation Satellite System (GNSS):

Implementation Method 2

using an accelerometer to determine a direction of vibration of the wind turbine

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentEP4077919B1Method of determining orientation of a nacelle

Publication Date: 2024.11.06 VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS AS

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AI summary

A method of determining an orientation of a nacelle of a wind turbine, wherein the nacelle carries a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) sensor, the method comprising: yawing the nacelle between a series of orientations; obtaining locus data based on a series of calibration positions measured by the GNSS sensor, wherein each calibration position is measured by the GNSS sensor when the nacelle is in a respective orientation of the series of orientations; storing the locus data; after storing the locus data, measuring a new position with the GNSS sensor; and determining the orientation of the nacelle on the basis of the stored locus data and the new position.