The key control problems associated with variable speed wind turbines are maximization of extracted energy when operating below the rated wind speed, and power and speed regulation when operating above the rated wind speed. In this paper, we develop a non-linear systems framework to address these problems. The framework is used to visualize and analyze the equilibria of the wind turbine as its operating regimes and controllers change. For both below rated and above rated wind speeds, we adopt nonlinear control-lers, analyze the stability property of the resulting equilibria, and establish the criterion for switching between control regimes. Further, the regions of attraction of the resulting equilibria are determined, and the existence of a common region of attraction, which allows stable switching between operating regimes, is shown. The control input maintains continuity at the point of switching. We next provide a method for blade pitch modulation to control rotor speed at high wind speeds. Through Lyapunov stability analysis, we prove stability of the equilibria in the presence of the two independently functioning torque- and pitch-control feedback loops. Simulation results are presented and the con-troller is compared with existing works from the literature. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4028775]

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One of the key control problems associated with variable speed wind turbine systems is maximization of energy extraction when operating below the rated wind speed and power regulation when operating above the rated wind speed. In this paper, we approach these problems from a nonlinear systems perspective. For below rated wind speeds we adopt existing work appearing in the literature and provide further insight into the characteristics of the resulting equilibrium points of the closed-loop system. For above rated wind speeds, we propose a nonlinear controller and analyze the stability property of the resulting equilibria. We also propose a method for switching between the two operating regimes that ensures continuity of control input at the transition point. The control laws are verified using a wind turbine model with a standard turbulent wind speed profile that spans both operating regimes.

Auto-rotation or autogyro is a well-known phenomenon where a rotor in a wind field generates significant lift while the wind induces considerable aerodynamic torque on the rotor. The principle has been studied extensively for applications in aviation. However, with recent works indicating immense, persistent, and pervasive, available wind energy at high altitudes, the principle of autogyro could potentially be exploited for energy harvesting. In this paper, we carry out a preliminary investigation on the viability of using autogyros for energy extraction. We mainly focus on one of the earliest documented works on modeling of autogyro and extend its use to explore energy harvesting. The model is based on blade element theory. We provide simulation results of the concept. Although the results are encouraging, there are various practical aspects that need to be investigated to build confidence on this approach of energy harvesting. This work aims to build a framework upon which more comprehensive research can be conducted.