Genetic algorithm optimization of a horizontal axis wind turbine blade section performance equipped with a single dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator utilizing a direct regression model

Abstract

The usage of a single dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator (SDBD-PA) device for improving a aerodynamic performance of a locally developed horizontal axis wind turbine blade section is studied with one of the most recent electrostatic models. To characterize this blade section behavior over a wide range of operating conditions of SDBD-PA and to advance its performance with a fully automated optimization algorithm, a computationally cost efficient direct regression model is proposed. In this paper, 512 comprehensive numerical simulations are carried out to derive the direct regression model for aerodynamic performance calculation when the PA is in use. However, to obtain highly accurate results, two different models for angle of attacks higher and less than ${21}^{°}$ are suggested. The proposed mathematical model within the specified boundary limits allows for a rapid linkage between aerodynamic performance and genetic algorithm which canbe made to acquire optimum results for each case without requiring burdensome numerical simulations. It is identified that superimpose input parameters effects onto each other is not explanatory of the final effect on aerodynamic performance and interaction effects should be seriously taken into consideration at the proposed regression model.