Control of a Wind Energy Conversion Systems by a Novel Data-Driven Model-Free Adaptive Algorithm

This paper explores the possibility of applying non model-based controllers to wind energy conversion systems (WECS), and proposes the application of a novel data-driven control algorithm based on Model-Free Adaptive Control. The proposed technique makes use of an equivalent dynamic linearization model obtained adopting a dynamic linearization technique based on pseudo-partial derivatives. A stability proof of convergence of the closed loop system is provided, proving the asymptotical vanishing of the tracking error. The proposed approach has been applied to the problem of efficiency maximization of a 5MW wind turbine operating in the region of medium wind speed using the recognized high-fidelity simulation tool FAST by NREL. The obtained realistic validation data seem to support the theoretical development and confirms the potential interest on data driven controllers for WECS, in view of their flexibility, effectiveness, low cost and possible interoperability with smart production lines.