Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Controller Adaptive Pitch Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Control systems for vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are less developed compared to horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWTs, lacking flexibility in operation modes to adapt to external factors like topography, environmental conditions, and time-specific requirements, which limits their performance and installation in varied environments.
Innovation Solution
A controller for VAWTs that selects between multiple control modes based on parameters such as time, environmental conditions, and sensor inputs, allowing for continuous active control of blade pitch to optimize performance without physical modifications, including the ability to reverse rotor direction to extend turbine life and adapt noise levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single control mode is used for VAWT operation, then the control system is simple, but the turbine cannot adapt to varying environmental conditions and operational requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically selects between multiple control modes (first control mode and second control mode) based on real-time operating conditions such as rotational speed, fluid velocity, and tip speed ratio. This dynamic adaptation allows the turbine to optimize performance across varying environmental conditions without requiring a completely reconfigurable control system, thus balancing adaptability with manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multiple control modes that differ in their control parameters and strategies. The controller selects between a first control mode and a second control mode based on operating conditions, where each mode has optimized parameters for specific scenarios (e.g., start-up vs. normal operation). This parameter variation enables adaptability to different environmental conditions while maintaining a structured control framework.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control modes are implemented, then the turbine can adapt to different environmental conditions, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses clearly defined parameter thresholds (rotational speed, fluid velocity, tip speed ratio) to select between control modes. Each control mode is optimized for specific parameter ranges, creating a systematic approach to operational flexibility. The controller compares current operating parameters against predefined criteria to determine the appropriate mode, providing structured flexibility without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors operating parameters (rotational speed, fluid velocity, tip speed ratio) and uses this feedback to select the appropriate control mode. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures the turbine operates in the optimal control mode based on real-time conditions, providing adaptability while maintaining controlled complexity through systematic decision-making.
3Productivity
If blade pitch is controlled to optimize power generation, then energy output increases, but noise levels may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system adjusts blade pitch parameters differently depending on the selected control mode. In modes optimized for power generation, blade pitch is adjusted to maximize energy capture. In modes where noise reduction is prioritized, the blade pitch parameters are modified to reduce aerodynamic noise while maintaining acceptable power generation. This parameter adaptation allows the system to balance productivity with noise control based on operational requirements.
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 the flexibility and performance of VAWTs by optimizing power generation, reducing noise, and extending turbine life through adaptive control modes that account for varying environmental conditions and operational requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a controller for a turbine, the turbine comprising a rotor comprising a plurality of aerofoil blades arranged for rotation around an axis of the rotor
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller for a turbine, the turbine comprising a rotor comprising a plurality of aerofoil or hydrofoil blades arranged for rotation around an axis of the rotor; wherein the controller is configured, for at least one control mode, to control the pitch of each blade in dependence on at least one of azimuthal position of that blade, fluid speed, fluid velocity, blade speed, blade velocity and tip speed ratio, the controller is configured to select a control mode from at least two stored control modes in dependence on at least one parameter other than fluid speed or blade speed, or in dependence on user input, and for at least some azimuthal positions and at least one wind speed and/or tip speed ratio, the variation in pitch as a function of azimuthal position is different for a first control mode than for a second control mode.