Wind Turbine Nacelle Yaw Control Using Torque Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
The efficiency of wind power generation is compromised due to inaccurate wind direction measurement caused by turbulent wind conditions after passing through the blades, leading to suboptimal nacelle positioning.
Innovation Solution
A controller system utilizing torque information sensors and a processing circuit to adjust nacelle rotation based on torque measurements, combined with speed and misalignment angle calculations, to optimize wind alignment with the blades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an anemoscope is used to measure wind direction for nacelle positioning, then the nacelle can be oriented toward the wind direction, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates because the anemoscope is located downwind of the blades and measures turbulent redirected wind
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces torque information sensors as an intermediary measurement method. Instead of directly measuring wind direction with an anemoscope affected by blade turbulence, the system measures the torque generated on the nacelle by the wind acting on the blades. This torque measurement indirectly reflects the wind direction and intensity without being contaminated by the turbulent wake behind the blades, thus resolving the measurement accuracy problem while maintaining ease of operation.
2Productivity
If the nacelle rotational position is continuously adjusted based on wind direction measurements, then the power generation efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases due to continuous motor control and sensor integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where torque information sensors continuously monitor the torque on the nacelle, and the controller adjusts the motor-driven nacelle position accordingly. The torque measurements provide real-time feedback about wind conditions and blade alignment effectiveness, enabling continuous optimization of power generation efficiency while managing system complexity through a structured control loop that integrates sensors, processing circuitry, and actuation mechanisms.
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
Enhances wind power generation efficiency by accurately aligning the nacelle with the wind direction, improving energy capture and reducing turbulence effects.
Implementation Method 1
the information about the torque may be strain in a bolt for connecting the nacelle to the gear mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for controlling a wind power generation device including a tower and a nacelle includes: a processing circuit configured to control a motor for rotating the nacelle relative to the tower; and a torque information sensor for sensing information about a torque acting from the nacelle to a gear mechanism, the gear mechanism connecting the tower and the nacelle so as to be capable of relative rotation. The processing circuit drives the motor based on a sensing value of the torque information sensor.