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Full-Field Dynamic Strain on Wind Turbine Blade Using Digital Image Correlation Techniques and Limited Sets of Measured Data From Photogrammetric Targets

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Abstract

Wind turbine blades are subjected to dynamic loadings during operation and the certification process that result in dynamic stresses and strains that are important to understand. Generally, only a small number of strain gages are used in the certification process and even fewer, if any at all, are installed for operational measurements. Recent advances in digital image correlation (DIC) and digital photogrammetry (DP) have allowed for new opportunities for blade inspection and structural health monitoring. This paper presents two different methods for determining the dynamic stresses and strains using (1) DIC techniques and, (2) a newly developed expansion process in conjunction with the finite element model to predict stresses and strains from limited measurement locations. The limited set of measurement data was provided by placing few optical targets on the test structure and using three dimensional point tracking approach to measure their displacements. The two approaches are discussed and used in the evaluation of a Southwest Wind Power turbine blade subjected to static loading and dynamic loading that are typical of the certification process. The advantages of each of the techniques are described and discussed in the paper.

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Acknowledgments

Some of the work presented herein was partially funded by the National Science Foundation Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation (CMMI) program (Grant No. 0900543; entitled “Dynamic Stress–Strain Prediction of Vibrating Structures in Operation”). Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the particular funding agency. The authors are grateful for the support obtained.

The test rig used in the tests performed in this paper was a direct result of the effort of a Capstone Design Team during the Spring Semester of 2011. Jennifer Carr, Samuel Dyas, Matthew Ertsos, Jack LoPiccolo, Christopher Nonis, and Joseph Romano were responsible for the design and fabrication of the test rig and development of test plans and procedures for operating the test rig. Their effortswere substantial and very much appreciated.

Southwest Windpower supplied several blades and CAD models and provided consultation related to this work. Their time and support and materials are greatly appreciated.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Structural Dynamics and Acoustic Systems Laboratory, University of Massachusetts Lowell, One University Avenue, Lowell, MA, 01854, USA

    J. Carr, J. Baqersad, C. Niezrecki & P. Avitabile

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  1. J. Carr
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  2. J. Baqersad
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  3. C. Niezrecki
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  4. P. Avitabile
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Correspondence to J. Baqersad.

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Carr, J., Baqersad, J., Niezrecki, C. et al. Full-Field Dynamic Strain on Wind Turbine Blade Using Digital Image Correlation Techniques and Limited Sets of Measured Data From Photogrammetric Targets. Exp Tech 40, 819–831 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40799-016-0082-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40799-016-0082-0

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