WER-10: Feasibility study of aileron and spoiler control systems for large horizontal axis wind turbines

Abstract

Studies have been conducted to determine the feasibility of using aileron or spoi ler controls as alternates to pitch control for large horizontal axis wind turbines. The NASA MDO-O machine was used as the basis for this study. Results of the study show that either ailerons or spoilers can provide the control necessary to limit turbine power in high wind conditions. An aileron system ;s recommended for the present appl ication, based upon the ability of ailerons to provide self-starting and added power at low wind speed conditions. The preliminary design study includes aileron component sizing and maximum hinge moments . . It is recommended that ailerons be fabricated for testing on the MOO -O turbine . It is also recommended that theoretical modeling methods for wind turbine performance be refined, and that wind tunnel tests be com-ducted to provide better data for airfoil characteristics at extreme angles of attack with aileron- type controls.