Overview of Structure and Research Activities at Institute of Design Aerodynamics, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Braunschweig, Germany

Abstract

Using wind energy to generate power has become an attractive and feasible possibility as a complement to the traditional power generation methods. This is mainly due to the advances in aerodynamic analysis, development of new composite materials and the experience gained through innovative and pioneering designs. Wind energy is abundant and inexhaustible. Its use to generate power in remot areas of developing countries with less developed infrastructure could help modernisation of such regions. This lecture attempts to give an overview of the technical aspects of the wind turbine design and is meant for an audience new to the subject. It is not the purpose of this presentation to deal with detailed technical aspects, but rather to highlight the salient aspects of the design. After a brief introduction, the topics covered are aerodynamics and aeroacoustics of wind turbines with a discussion of the structural dynamics and vibration engineering aspects.