Master Thesis: Development and assembly of a multi-body simulation model for the investigation of the acoustic properties of a modern wind turbine drivetrain with focus on electromagnetic excitations and generator-gearbox interaction

The Chair for Wind Power Drives researches the behavior of drive systems in modern multi-megawatt wind turbines. The research objectives are to increase the availability, robustness and energy efficiency of wind turbines and to reduce the cost of electricity. For this purpose, software development tools and modern system test benches are used in combination.

Due to the globally advancing expansion of onshore wind energy, the acceptance of residents of nearby settlements is becoming increasingly important in the design of new wind turbines (WT). The reason is the need to develop new areas closer to inhabited areas. The sound radiation of the wind turbine is a central factor which, in contrast to other aspects, can be optimized by the design of the wind turbine. Investigations have shown that especially the noise of wind turbines is clearly opposed by the inhabitants of nearby settlements.

Therefore, the aim of this work is the development of a multi-body simulation model with which the electro-mechanical excitations in the WTG generator and their interaction with the gearbox can be investigated.

Your tasks:

• Research of the state of the art
• Assembly of FE models of the generator structure
• Application of a novel modelling method for the mapping of electromagnetic excitations in medium-speed wind turbine generators
• Execution of simulations and investigation of the generator-gearbox interaction

Requirements:

• Motivation to work independently and on one’s own responsibility, ability to communicate and work in a team, as well as a secure command of the German or English language
• Interest in NVH-simulations and wind energy
• Previous knowledge in the field of finite element methods (e.g. in Abaqus) as well as multi-body simulation (e.g. in Simpack) is desirable
• Programming experience in Fortran desirable, but not mandatory

We offer.

• Scientific work in a highly motivated interdisciplinary team
• Learning of simulation methods relevant to practice
• Pleasant working atmosphere and intensive support
• Otion to participate in a scientific publication
• Immediate start possible

We look forward to your application by email:

Thomas Decker, M. Sc. RWTH
Chair for Wind Power Drives

Campus-Boulevard 61, 52074 Aachen
thomas.decker@cwd.rwth-aachen.de