A multi-drive aerodynamic load simulator for floating wind turbine model tests: Development, test and application

Abstract

Accurate simulation of the aerodynamic loads is strictly required in the integrated model test of Floating Wind Turbines (FWTs). In this paper, a Multi-drive Aerodynamic Loading Simulator (MALS) is designed and manufactured dedicatedly for FWT model tests, with high-performance individually-controlled UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) propellers serving as the force actuators. Extensive performance evaluation tests are carried out, showing that the developed MALS can generate desired aerodynamic thrusts with satisfying accuracy for both steady and unsteady cases. The maximum change rate of the MALS-generated thrust is about 30 N/s, and over 95% of the fluctuation energy of rotor thrust in the dominant frequency band can be accurately reproduced, covering the requirements of practical wind turbines. Afterwards, a hybrid model test system is constructed based on the proposed MALS, helping to study the dynamic characteristics of FWT systems. In addition, an FWT testing system incorporating a tuned mass damper is constructed. The MALS performs well as a highly controllable actuator, contributing to the FWT tests associated with advanced controllers.