GL Garrad Hassan has released Version 4.4 of Bladed, an integrated software package for the design and certification of onshore and offshore wind turbines.
Version 4.4 includes many new features, including a new pitch actuator model with additional functionality, a new external controller interface, improved moorings capability for floating turbines, and several updates to the hardware test module.
The new pitch actuator model includes such features as set-point trajectory planning, limit switches, end stops and variable torque limits. A new interactive user interface screen also provides a clearer description of the model and options available.
In addition, Version 4.4 introduces a brand-new interface between the simulation code and the external controller, making it more straightforward and clearer to write controllers that utilize a large number of variables and options, according to GL Garrad Hassan.
The floating capability has also been enhanced with a tool that allows users to auto-populate the stiffness matrix that represents a catenary mooring line from some basic line properties.
