Yaw Drive Torque Control via Mean Motor Speed Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wind turbine yaw systems face challenges in achieving even load distribution among multiple yaw drive actuators, leading to uneven wear and reduced component lifetime.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced where the motor controller calculates a required motor torque reference based on a mean motor speed reference, creating a virtual master drive that ensures even load distribution among yaw drive actuators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a plurality of yaw drive actuators are used to orient the nacelle, then the productivity and reliability of the yaw system are improved, but uneven load distribution among actuators leads to increased device complexity and reduced component lifetime

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveyaw system reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the actual speed of each yaw drive actuator is measured and fed back to the controller. The controller compares the actual speeds with the requested speed and adjusts the torque distribution accordingly, ensuring even load distribution while maintaining system reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a speed reference signal as an intermediary element that mediates between the turbine controller and the yaw drive actuators. This speed reference acts as a common reference point that coordinates the operation of multiple actuators, simplifying the control architecture while ensuring synchronized and balanced operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If the yaw system responds sensitively to wind direction changes, then the productivity is improved by maintaining optimal orientation, but continuous small yaw movements reduce component lifetime

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower productionVSAvoidcomponent lifetime

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of the yaw system by continuously adjusting the torque reference based on actual speed feedback. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to respond appropriately to wind direction changes while avoiding excessive or unnecessary movements, thereby extending component lifetime

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the control parameter from direct torque control to speed-reference-based torque control. By using speed feedback as an intermediary, the system can smoothly adjust torque levels to match actual operational needs, reducing mechanical stress and extending component life while maintaining productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12264652B2Yaw control using mean motor speed reference as feedback

Publication Date: 2025.04.01 VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS AS

AI summary

Techniques for controlling the yaw of a wind turbine system by controlling a plurality of yaw drive actuators. Based on a requested motor speed reference as an input signal, and a mean motor speed reference as a feedback signal, the method determines a required motor torque reference as an output signal for the plurality of yaw drive actuators. The plurality of yaw drive actuators rotates a nacelle or a structure comprising a plurality of nacelles such that an even load distribution is provided for the plurality of yaw drive actuators.