Adaptive Trailing Edge Flap Placement

Abstract

The chapter proposes a smart rotor configuration for the NREL 5 MW turbine with Adaptive Trailing Edge Flaps (ATEF) on each of the blades. Flaps with the aerodynamic proprieties presented in the previous chapter are included in the HAWC2 model of the wind turbine, and aeroelastic simulations are performed to determine the blade root flapwise bending moment response to step deflections of flaps located at different positions along the blade span. The response characteristics guide the choice on placement and extension of the flap actuators, thus defining the smart rotor configuration that will be used in all the following active load alleviation analysis. A brief comparison of the blade root load variation achieved by the proposed actuator configuration, and the bending moment variations observed on the turbine rotor during normal operation concludes the chapter.