Robust Control of Variable Speed Wind Turbines
PI: Prof. Mounir Ben Ghalia
This research's lab focuses on nonlinear robust control of variable speed wind turbines that will lead to a maximized energy capture. Considerable research has focused on the modeling and control of wind turbines. However, most of the research efforts have relied on either simplified mechanical and aerodynamic models of wind turbines or simple electrical generator and power system models without accounting for system model uncertainties. Consequently, the relationship between electric disturbances and mechanical vibrations cannot be realistically studied. This is an important problem since electric utilities are requiring ride-through capabilities of wind turbines during most common power system disturbances.
The teachers will (1) learn how to simulate computer models of variable-speed three-bladed horizontal-axis wind turbines built using MATLAB/SIMULINK and FAST (Fatigue, Aerodynamics, Structures, and Turbulence) simulator, (2) participate in the design of robust nonlinear control schemes, and (3) carry out simulations for a number of profiles of three-dimensional turbulent winds, and (4) analyze simulation data. The project would be appropriate for middle and high-school science, physics, or math teachers, and would strengthen curriculum concepts such as sources and property of energy, electricity, force and motion, energy conversion, and quantitative reasoning.