A set of nonlinear equations of equilibrium for an elastic wind turbine or helicopter blade are presented. These equations are derived for the case of small strains and moderate rotations (slopes). The derivation includes several assumptions which are carefully stated. For the convenience of potential users the equations are developed with respect to two different systems of coordinates, the undeformed and the deformed coordinates of the blade. Furthermore, the loads acting on the blade are given in a general form so as to make them suitable for a variety of applications. The equations obtained in the present study are compared with those obtained in previous studies. Finally, it should be noted that this report represents the first in a series of three reports documenting the research performed under the grant. The second report (UCLA-ENG-7880) deals with the aeroelastic stability and response of an isolated horizontal axis wind turbine blade. The third report (UCLA-ENG-7881) deals with the aeroelastic sta¬bility and response of the complete coupled rotor/tower system simulating essentially the dynamics of the NASA/DOE Mod-0 configuration.
展开▼
