Models and simulation

Abstract

During the design phase of wind turbine (WT) systems, simulation models are used in order to design and optimise the WT system behaviour and its components. Since (offshore) WTs are complex systems that interact with various environmental conditions and other technical systems, it is a considerable challenge to develop simulation models in such a way that all relevant influences are reproduced properly.Overall, the content of this chapter comprises approaches for modelling and simulation of WT systems, including hands-on experience in their applications and suitability. Due to the huge diversity of types and fidelity levels of simulation models, as introduced in section 2.1, the subsequent elaborations are limited in scope and mainly focus on aerodynamic and mechanical models of WT systems and their components. Since the mechanical behaviour of a WT is not only driven by the structure itself but also strongly affected by environmental influences and resulting loads on the system, the modelling of environmental conditions is addressed first (section 2.2). The subsequent description of WT system and component modelling starts from a medium-fidelity level in the general and fully coupled modelling of WTs (section 2.3), including aero-, hydro- and structural dynamics, and pointing out the modelling of structural components while just touching upon the modelling of other components. The final focus, then, lies on drivetrain models (section 2.4), comprising details on modelling approaches and best practices. A short summary and conclusions are provided at the very end (section 2.5).