Multi-objective constrained optimizations of VAWT composite blades based on FEM and PSO

Abstract

Vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are attractive tools for wind energy extraction particularly suitable for small consumers or off-grid areas. Although their geometry is simple (here, rectangular blade of constant airfoil is assumed), aerodynamic analysis may be quite complex. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach is employed for the estimation of rotor aerodynamic performances. This paper provides a review of possible multi-objective optimization strategies for the design of small-scale VAWT laminate blades in terms of its main structural parameters: ply-order and ply-number. Numerous structural analyses of the composite turbine blades were performed by finite element method (FEM). Multi-criteria constrained optimizations, by an evolutionary method - particle swarm optimization (PSO), were performed with respect to blade total mass, maximum blade tip deflection under static loading, computed natural frequencies and failure index along the blade. By combining different input and output parameters (cost functions and constraints) a large variety of feasible solutions can be achieved.

Keywords

• vawt
• blade
• cfd
• laminate
• fem
• multi-objective pso