Wind Turbine Sensor Heating via Optical Fibre
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind turbine sensors are susceptible to lightning strikes and ice accretion, which can disrupt their operation, and existing solutions do not adequately address these issues.
Innovation Solution
A sensor apparatus with a heating system using optical fibers to transmit electromagnetic radiation and prevent ice accretion, combined with a controller that activates the heating system based on temperature and humidity thresholds, and made from non-metallic components to reduce lightning strike risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If sensors are made from metallic components, then manufacturing precision and durability are improved, but susceptibility to lightning strikes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces metallic mechanical/electrical components with optical components. The sensor uses optical fibers to transmit signals and electromagnetic radiation for heating, eliminating conductive metal parts that attract lightning. This substitution maintains sensor functionality while removing the lightning attraction problem inherent in metallic constructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor employs composite construction combining non-metallic materials (optical fibers, polymers, ceramics) to create a structure that maintains mechanical strength and thermal properties without using conductive metals. This composite approach allows the sensor to withstand environmental conditions without attracting lightning strikes.
2Reliability
If heating system is constantly active, then ice accretion prevention is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating system operates periodically rather than continuously, activated only when temperature sensors detect conditions conducive to ice formation (below freezing temperatures). The controller monitors temperature and switches the heating system on/off accordingly, preventing ice accretion while minimizing energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary heating during warmer periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates temperature sensors that provide feedback to the controller about ambient and sensor surface temperatures. Based on this feedback, the controller intelligently activates the heating system only when needed (when temperatures indicate ice formation risk), creating a closed-loop control system that balances ice prevention with power conservation.
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
The solution effectively prevents ice accretion and reduces the risk of lightning strikes, ensuring continuous operation of wind turbine sensors even in cold conditions while conserving power and maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fibre arranged to transmit electromagnetic radiation from a light source to the sensor and irradiate the sensor with the electromagnetic radiation to heat the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Improvements Relating to Wind Turbine Sensors A sensor apparatus for a wind turbine is described. The apparatus comprises a sensor and a heating system. The heating system comprises an optical fibre arranged to transmit electromagnetic radiation from a light source to the sensor. The sensor is irradiated by the electromagnetic radiation thereby heating the sensor and preventing or reducing ice accretion.