Digital framework architecture for the construction of a virtual wind farm
DiRaWi-2
Components of a virtual wind farm
A virtual wind farm serves as a detailed digital representation of an actual facility. By precisely modelling the real components and processes, and by leveraging the simulation and calculation results derived from these models, maintenance intervals can be scheduled for the real wind farm based on actual needs (predictive maintenance). This approach can improve turbine availability and extend their operational lifespan. The digital model has various applications, including scientific research, assisting wind turbine manufacturers in technology evaluation and supporting regulatory bodies in conducting holistic assessments.
As part of the DiRaWi-2 project, DLR Wind Energy Research is developing methods to create a 'virtual wind farm'. A total of eleven institutes and facilities within the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) are jointly working on a digital framework architecture for the creation of a virtual representation of the actual DLR Research Wind Farm (WiValdi).
The long-term aim of the simulation is to establish a highly accurate mathematical and numerical model of a wind farm that captures all its characteristics over the entire life cycle. Achieving such a model requires multidisciplinary simulation methods, along with modular processing chains and platforms designed for efficient use on future high-performance computers and distributed computing systems.
To achieve this, DLR scientists link various simulation tools within one or more computational chains. These tools are integrated using the DLR-developed RCE (Remote Component Environment) programme, which facilitates their flexible, modular linking across various computers and operating systems. Data exchange between the simulation tools is standardised through the Common Parametric Aircraft Configuration Schema (CPACS), an established system in the aviation sector. An XSD schema is also defined and created to include all variables relevant to a wind farm.
DiRaWi-2 builds directly on the one-year preparatory project DiRaWi-1, which concluded in December 2022. Through this modular expandable development environment, DiRaWi-2 lays the foundation for the ongoing development of the virtual wind farm in collaboration with internal and external partners, with a long-term perspective on its usage.
Project DiRaWi-2 – Digital framework architecture for the construction of a virtual wind farm with commercial connectivity
