Design and optimization of multi-MW offshore direct-drive wind turbine electrical generator structures using generative design techniques

Gonzalez-Delgado, Daniel; Jaen-Sola, Pablo; Oterkus, Erkan

Abstract

The use of generative design as an alternative to typical structural optimization techniques opens the door to new methods of manufacturing. In this study, generative design techniques were used as an automated iterative process with an extensive set of control variables and initial models to explore and optimise the stiffness and weight of different configurations for a 3 MW offshore wind turbine electrical generator structure. With this new approach of adding generative design techniques to a structural optimization process, a 4% reduction in structural mass was achieved. The modification in the structural geometry also help to enlarge the machine's operational range with the consequent growth in energy gathering.

Citation

Gonzalez-Delgado, D., Jaen-Sola, P., & Oterkus, E. (2023). Design and optimization of multi-MW offshore direct-drive wind turbine electrical generator structures using generative design techniques. Ocean Engineering, 280, Article 114417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceaneng.2023.114417

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 1, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Apr 26, 2023
• Publication Date: 2023-07
• Deposit Date: Apr 26, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 26, 2023
• Print ISSN: 0029-8018
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 280
• Article Number: 114417
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceaneng.2023.114417
• Keywords: Offshore wind turbine, Direct-drive electrical generator, Structural optimization, Generative design