Experimental and numerical study of an autonomous flap

This paper presents the experimental and numerical study of an autonomous load alleviation concept using trailing edge flaps. The flaps are autonomous units, which for instance can be used for gust load alleviation. The unit is self-powered and self-actuated through trailing edge tabs which are mounted as aerodynamic control devices on free...

How far is smart rotor research and what steps need to be taken to build a full-scale prototype?

During the last decade research on the field of smart rotor has advanced significantly. Fundamental aerodynamics, structural and control concepts have been established and simulators created for distributed flaps on wind turbine blades, which are considered the most promising option. Also a proof of concept has been done under laboratory...