Wind Turbine's Gearbox Aided Design Approach Using Bond Graph Methodology and Monte Carlo Simulation

Uncertainties in geared products vary according to different levels; there are design uncertainties (physical assumptions, parameters estimations, etc.), manufacturing errors (cutting defects, assembly errors, defects due to heat treatments, etc.) and operating errors such as lubrication. In this paper, uncertainties effect on the transmitted power within a 750 kW Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine gearbox is investigated. A methodology for transmission chain modelling and parametric synthesis in the design phase is detailed. It is based on Bond Graph theory to establish uncertain physical model and Monte Carlo Simulation to conduct a parametric synthesis allowing the definition of each parameter's interval of variation. After model verification by means of 20-Sim (Controllab product), power gap reveals a variation of 34.87 kW around the nominal value. In addition, Monte Carlo Simulation allows the prediction of each parameter variation effect on the torque transmitted to the induction machine. Study's results will provide designers with information to conduct a robust design and then achieve high machine's efficiency.

Automated summary

This study investigates the uncertainties affecting transmitted power in geared products, proposing a methodology for transmission chain modeling and parametric synthesis in the design phase. Monte Carlo Simulation is used to predict the effect of parameter variations on torque transmission, providing designers with information for robust design.