Optimization Study On Tidal Currnet Turbine Performance Based On Genetic Algorithm

A hydrodynamic optimization method to enhance the energy efficiency of the vertical-axis tidal current turbine for marine current energy or wind energy conversion is presented in this paper based on the summary of the streamtube methods. Genetic Algorithm method is used in the analysis to maximize three target functions which are important to the general designing of tidal current power plant.Firstly, a summary of the basic principles of this kind of turbine is given, including models based on momentum theory, single-disk single-streamtube method and Betz theory.Secondly, a discussion on the parameters of Genetic Algorithm is made. These parameters are population size, the way of selection, crossover and mutation.At last, optimal results as the energy conversion and the relation between attack angle and azimuth angle at fixed tip speed ratio, chord and rotor's diameter are given with comparison with the prototype of vertical-axis cycloid turbine. The reason of the improved performance of the turbine is finally discussed.