Adjustable-pitch and variable-speed control of wind turbines using nonlinear algorithm

Variable-speed, horizontal axis wind turbines use adjustable-pitch and converter control to meet specified objectives for three regions of operation. This paper focuses on controller design for the constant power production regime. We develop a control scheme for wind turbine using nonlinear control theory. Based on mechanical dynamics, a nonlinear control algorithm is derived to on-line adjustable-pitch. A simple, rigid, nonlinear turbine model is used to systematically perform trade-off studies between two performance metrics. Minimization of both the deviation of the rotor speed from the desired speed and the motion of the actuator is desired. The effectiveness of the algorithm is verified via computer simulation with varying operating conditions. The project is sponsored by 863-multi-megawatt wind turbines control system.