A multi-point performance matched aerofoil design algorithm for a scaled wind turbine rotor model

Martin, Steven and Day, Alexander; (2015) A multi-point performance matched aerofoil design algorithm for a scaled wind turbine rotor model. In: 50th 3AF International Conference on Applied Aerodynamics. 3AF Association Aéronautique et Astronautique de France, Paris.

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Abstract

A search-based multi-point aerofoil design algorithm is presented which optimises a profile for a prescribed CL-α distribution and Reynolds number, Re. A real-coded genetic algorithm is used in conjunction with XFOIL and a geometrically constrained shape parameterisation method to produce smooth, manufacturable aerofoils given the required aerodynamic performance. The validated tool is used to produce a family of aerofoils to define a model rotor blade for a wind turbine with a similar axial induction factor along its length in a small scale laboratory environment to a full scale reference. It is hypothesised that given the similar axial induction and similar non-dimensional geometry, the model rotor will have a similar unsteady aerodynamic response to the full scale.