Topics in Aerospace Engineering; Fundamentals of Offshore Wind Energy
Credits:1 - 3
Grad Meth:
Reg, P-F, Aud
Restriction: Must be a student with junior status.
This course will introduce students to the various fundamental key aspects related to offshore wind. The first part of the course will cover the basics of meteorology related to wind and waves and then how wind turbines are able to change the translational kinetic energy in the wind into rotational kinetic energy of the blades. The second portion concerns the structures of offshore wind turbines and how they are installed. Thethird portion then looks at how the turbine is controlled to convert therotational kinetic energy to electricity in a safe and efficient manner. The fourth portion specializes in the environmental and financial issues associated with offshore wind farms. Finally the longterm operations and maintenance of individual turbines and wind farms will be explored. Successful completion of this course should be sufficient to enable entry into the off shore wind industry while also encouraging the student to examine each of these five areas in more detail.