Segmented Wind Turbine Blade Add-ons for Sensor-less Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine blade control systems face challenges in predicting and managing aerodynamic properties due to the harsh environment for sensors, which complicates load simulation, control strategy design, and approval processes, necessitating a sensor-less solution.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for controlling wind turbine blade aerodynamics using segmented add-on members actuated by trim actuators, operating in a digital on/off manner without feedback sensors, allowing for fast transitions between open and closed positions based on a trim activation signal to achieve known aerodynamic responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are used to monitor add-on member positions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and reliability deteriorate due to harsh blade environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the blade environment by placing sensors in the hub instead of the blade. The hub provides a stable, protected environment for sensors while still enabling monitoring of add-on member positions through mechanical linkages or optical systems that extend from the hub to the blade.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism between the add-on member and the sensor system. This intermediary could be a mechanical linkage, optical reflector, or magnetic coupling that transfers position information from the harsh blade environment to the protected sensor location in the hub, eliminating direct sensor exposure to blade conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If segmented add-on members are controlled with multiple positions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the add-on member into multiple segments that can be independently controlled. Each segment can be positioned separately to create different aerodynamic configurations, enabling fine-tuned adaptability without requiring a single complex continuous-position system. The segmentation allows binary control (extended/retracted) for each segment, simplifying actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by controlling only the necessary number of segments to achieve desired aerodynamic effects. Rather than requiring all segments to be simultaneously controllable with full precision, the system uses selective activation of subsets of segments, reducing control complexity while maintaining adaptability for various operating conditions.
3Productivity
If fast transitions between open and closed positions are implemented, then productivity is improved, but loss of information about intermediate positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the add-on member into multiple independently controllable sections. During transition, segments can be actuated in a controlled sequence rather than simultaneously, allowing the system to maintain known position states for each segment while achieving fast overall transition. This segmented approach prevents loss of position information that would occur with a monolithic fast-transition system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic or sequential actuation of segments during transition. Rather than a single simultaneous movement, segments are activated in periodic sequences, allowing the control system to track position states throughout the transition process while achieving rapid overall response. This periodic action maintains information awareness during the transition sequence.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a wind turbine and to a method and a device for controlling aerodynamic properties of a blade of the wind turbine, the blade including a predetermined number of add-on members which are actuated by a corresponding trim actuator to alter the aerodynamic properties of the blade, wherein each trim actuator is configured to hold the add-on member in a predetermined first position and a predetermined second position. The control device is configured to determine a first number of add-on members which are to be held at the predetermined first position, and to determine a second number of add-on members which are to be held at the predetermined second position.