The advantages of using continuously variable transmissions in wind power systems

Abstract

When connected to appropriate electric power generators, wind turbines may be used to produce electric energy. This may become complicated because wind speed tends to change. Traditionally, electric power was produced by electric generators connected to mechanical devices whose movement could be perfectly controlled and adapted to user's needs by special governors. This paper explores the feasibility of incorporating a continuously variable mechanical transmission between a wind turbine and an electric generator. Such a system would allow the turbine to operate at maximum efficiency levels and the generator to produce electric power at a desired frequency without using other devices. A mathematical model has been used to simulate a system formed by a wind turbine connected to an induction generator by means of a continuously variable transmission. The simulation was aimed at assessing whether the system was stable and attempted to adjust the transmission in order to ensure the required power supply.