B4.4 - High-resolution speckle sensor for contactless torque measurement in wind energy systems

Abstract

In order to extend the operating life of drivetrain components of a wind energy system improved data sets of load cycles could greatly enhance the design process. For this purpose, the effects of transient torque reversals which are dependent on the operating conditions as well as the wind characteristics have to be considered. The sensors currently used in condition monitoring systems, however, are mostly inadequate and often limited in access. The proposed optical speckle sensor can measure directly on any shaft material and works contactless, which allows post-installation on existing machines. A concept for an in-situ capable sensor with a resolution of 0.5 % the nominal torque of a generator shaft will be presented and the influence of the compound lens in combination with the image registration algorithm on the resulting measurement uncertainty will be discussed.