Structural optimisation of wind turbine gearbox deployed in non-conventional energy generation

Abstract

The use of windmill has revolutionized renewable energy generation for people in communities, residing in remote areas that are not connected to the power grid. The gearbox, comprising planetary gear assembly, in the wind turbine, is a critical component in the structure and hence due care is to be taken in determining the design safety factor. This paper explores different optimisation techniques for analysing computer aided simulation data for obtaining the highest Safety Factor based on failure analysis, using experimental data of multiple design variables. Several design optimisation methodologies are used, namely, Taguchi Robust Design, Response Surface Methodology and Soft Computing Techniques etc. amongst others. It has been observed that optimality values differ, sometimes significantly, with the optimisation approach. An accurate comparison would provide the information regarding suitability of using a particular optimisation technique.