Project start: 2009
Abstract
The scope of the proposed project is the development of an advanced wind turbine control system and its implementation on a real wind turbine. The goals of such a control system are optimal wind energy utilization as well as reduction of wind turbine structural vibrations and loads. Achievement of those goals is necessary to take the wind energy utilization to the next stage needed for tackling progressive climate changes.
Although advanced wind turbine control algorithms have been extensively researched on the theoretical level, very few implementations of such algorithms have been seen so far. The reason for this is the high computational demands of such algorithms that make them very problematic for implementation in industrial controller platforms.
The proposed project is structured to assure a systematic approach to advanced control algorithms implementation. This approach starts by analyzing the influence of real industrial controller limitations on the control algorithms in terms of system stability and performance. For this purpose, the industrial controller platform simulator will be developed within the project. Results gained by such analysis will be used to tailor control algorithms to allow their implementation on an industrial controller platform.
The performance of proposed algorithms will be tested using a hardware-in-the-loop structure where the control algorithm will be running on an actual industrial controller while the process (wind turbine) will be simulated on a computer using professional simulation tools. After such a laboratory testing wind turbine control systems will be implemented on the real wind turbines and put into operation on-site. This will allow for its testing and fine-tuning in a wide variety of operating conditions.
The proposed project will result in an advanced wind turbine control system as a commercial product. Ownership of such high-tech products will assure Končar’s position in the competing international market thus improving the position of the Croatian industry in the rapidly growing field of renewable energy technology. Moreover, methods, simulators and laboratory setup that will be developed through the project will allow for continuous development and improvement of wind turbine control system assuring Končar and Croatia long term competitiveness in this field.
The project will also serve as an excellent instrument for bringing academic knowledge into the industrial environment thus increasing the basic knowledge of Končar’s experts. Outcomes of the proposed project in the form of commercial products, laboratory testing facilities and increased technical knowledge of its experts will create an opportunity for Končar to participate in fruitful future collaboration with academic institutions at the national and international levels.