Multi-Disciplinary Optimization of Wind Turbines Using Comprehensive Aero-Servo-Elastic Models

We describe procedures for the multi-disciplinary design optimization of wind turbines using high-fidelity comprehensive models. Design parameters are optimized by maximizing/minimizing user-defined performance indexes, subjected to user-specified constraints. The optimization is performed by means of a variety of global-local techniques. Evaluation of cost function and constraints is performed by running simulations with a parametric high-fidelity aero-servo-elastic model. The proposed procedures are implemented in a computer program currently in use by industry for the optimization of a multi-MW horizontal axis wind turbine.