Performance Improving of Wind Power Generation Systems through Parameter Optimization and Dynamic Analysis of the Speed-Regulating Differential Transmission

Hybrid drive wind power generation systems (WPGSs) equipped with speed regulating differential mechanisms (SRDMs) have emerged as a promising solution for integrating large-scale wind energy into the power grid without the need for partially- or fully-rated converters. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the dynamic analysis and parameter optimization of the SRDM-based transmission, with the aim of providing a sound foundation for the design and performance improvement of hybrid drive WPGSs. This study first formulates the kinematics, power flow, and mechanical efficiency of the SRDM, and then proposes an effective parameter configuration model for optimizing the speed ratios of the key link units. The objective function is set as the minimum peak power required for speed regulation by the SRDM. Furthermore, to deal with the unique mechanical features such as dual power inputs, continuously variable transmission, and time-varying steering mechanism, an appropriate nonlinear dynamic modeling method of the SRDM transmission is developed. The torsion-translation vibration equations are derived and solved using the Runge-Kutta numerical integral method, considering randomly changing wind speed inputs and time-varying internal/external excitations. Results reveal that the sun gear experiences severe vibrations with the maximal and average vibration displacements of 0.563 mm and 0.112 mm, respectively, in the circumferential direction, while the planet gear exhibits complex frequency responses. Finally, specialized case studies are demonstrated to verify the proposed approaches, showing the satisfactory on-grid operating performance of the proposed SRDM-based WPGSs.