The main objective of this module will be to describe fundamental knowledge on the fluid mechanics of wind turbines (why do wind turbines look the way they do?) and on the fluid mechanics of the wind itself (what makes the wind blow?). Structural mechanics is also essential to the wind energy industry of course, and will also be addressed, but less in depth.
A second objective of this module will be to give an overview of the history of wind turbines, and to provide some elements on the present state and trends of wind energy in the world. These topics will be covered more concisely than those described above.
An originality of the course consists in presenting the fluid mechanics necessary for the understanding of both the flow around the turbine (aerodynamics) and the atmospheric flow which produces the boundary layer winds (geophysical fluid dynamics). This contrasts with standard texts on wind energy which generally describe the wind only from a statistical point of view.
Evaluation will take two to three forms: during the semester, students make a short presentation on a research article, by groups of three to five, and the course ends with a written exam. Additionally, there may be quizz using multiple choice questions.
The course is taught in English.
- Teaching coordinator: Plougonven Riwal