Wind Turbine Aerodynamic Map Adjustment for Dynamic Wind Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wind turbine control systems rely on static aerodynamic performance maps that do not account for dynamic wind conditions such as wind shear, turbulence intensity, and blade aerodynamic shape variations, leading to suboptimal performance and potential component damage.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for controlling wind turbines by using adjustment factors applied to static aerodynamic performance maps based on real-time measurements of wind parameters and rotor blade conditions, allowing for dynamic adjustments to optimize performance under varying wind conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If static aerodynamic performance maps are used for wind turbine control, then the control system is simple and easy to implement, but the performance is suboptimal and components may be damaged due to not accounting for dynamic wind conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system implementationVSAvoidcomponent safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static aerodynamic performance maps to dynamic adjustment factors that vary with wind conditions. The control system now uses real-time wind parameters (wind speed, turbulence intensity, wind shear) to dynamically adjust the aerodynamic performance map, allowing the system to adapt to changing environmental conditions while maintaining component safety

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the aerodynamic performance map based on measured wind conditions. The system changes key parameters including wind speed, turbulence intensity, and wind shear to generate appropriate adjustment factors, thereby optimizing turbine performance and protecting components under varying operational conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If static aerodynamic performance maps are used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to varying wind conditions is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system structureVSAvoidresponse to wind conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by continuously measuring wind parameters (wind speed, turbulence intensity, wind shear) and using these measurements to adjust the aerodynamic performance map in real-time. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the control system to adapt to varying wind conditions without requiring a completely complex redesign of the control architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent achieves universality by creating a multi-functional adjustment factor that accounts for multiple wind conditions simultaneously. The single adjustment factor incorporates effects from wind speed, turbulence intensity, and wind shear, allowing the control system to handle various wind scenarios with a unified approach rather than requiring separate control mechanisms for each condition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3619425B1Adjustment factor for aerodynamic performance map
Publication Date: 2025.04.23 GENERAL ELECTRIC RENOVABLES ESPANA SL
  • EP3619425B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3619425B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3619425B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to a method for controlling a wind turbine using an adjusted aerodynamic performance map. In one embodiment, the method includes monitoring at least one of an actual wind parameter or operating data of the wind turbine using one or more sensors. Further, the method includes determining an adjustment factor for the aerodynamic performance map based, at least in part, on either or both of the measured actual wind parameter or the wind turbine operating data. Moreover, the method includes applying the adjustment factor to a first aerodynamic performance map to obtain an adjusted aerodynamic performance map. Thus, the method also includes controlling the wind turbine based on the adjusted aerodynamic performance map.