2020-Experimental modelling of a floating wind turbine using a 'software-in-the-loop' approach-Centrale Nantes-WEAMEC project "SOFTWIND"

PhD abstract

Actual calculation tools for the multi-physical numerical modeling (wind, waves, current, etc.) of a floating wind turbine need validation through experimental campaigns. The objective of this work is the development and validation of an experimental apparatus dedicated to floating wind turbines wave tank testing, focusing on the representation of wind turbine forces. A hybrid approach combining physical and numerical modeling is developed, called “software-in-the-loop” (SIL).

The development of the different subsystems of an SIL system includes

•     the selection and development of the numerical model
•     the design of the force reproduction system (actuators)
•     the definition of the real-time environment for the integration of the numerical model, the control of actuators, and the data acquisition.

To characterize and identify the performances of the SIL system, dedicated methodologies are developed. Specific test benches are built, and wave tank tests of a floating wind turbine are carried out. These wave tank tests are then compared to coupled aero-hydro-servo-structure simulations to investigate the hypotheses of the hydrodynamic force model.

This work was carried out within the framework of the WEAMEC project SOFTWIND and with funding from the Pays de la Loire Region.