Smart Flow Control of an Airfoil with Trailing Edge Flap for Wind Turbines Using a Fuzzy Logic Strategy

Abstract

In this study, a new method for optimizing wind turbine airfoil performance is introduced. This method involves the integration of an active trailing edge flap into the airfoil design, allowing a more effective management of the aerodynamic forces acting on the wind turbine blades. This approach utilizes a fuzzy logic control algorithm to adjust the trailing edge flap and pitch angle based on computational fluid dynamics analysis of the aerodynamic behavior of the S809 airfoil. The algorithm computes the optimal angles for the trailing edge flap and pitch to maximize the lift-to-drag ratio (Cl/Cd). Simulation results demonstrate a significant enhancement in the Cl/Cd ratio compared to a traditional airfoil, indicating the effectiveness of this proposed smart control strategy. This approach has the potential to improve greatly wind turbine performance and contribute to the advancement of more efficient and sustainable energy systems.