Smart Systems and Grid Integration
This research cluster focuses on advanced control systems, intelligent operations, electrical integration, and machine learning applications in offshore wind energy.
It covers adaptive and predictive control of wind turbines and farms, innovative generator designs, high-voltage modular drivetrains, condition monitoring via digital twins, and AI-driven maintenance strategies. By combining expertise in mechatronics, electrical engineering, power electronics, and applied artificial intelligence, the group enhances offshore wind performance, reliability, and seamless integration into future renewable-powered grids.
Our research group team leads
- Prof. Guillaume Crevecoeur – Works on control engineering and mechatronics for wind energy; expert in system identification and adaptive control of wind turbines and farms, including applying robotics and AI for optimal turbine performance and reliability.
- Prof. Hendrik Vansompel – Specializes in power electronics and integrated drive trains for various applications; develops high-voltage modular electric drive systems and integrated converter/control solutions for wind turbines to enhance efficiency and reliability of energy conversion.
- Prof. Ivo Couckuyt – Researches data-driven optimization and machine learning for engineering systems; involved in applying machine learning and surrogate modeling to wind farm operations and maintenance (e.g. using AI to predict failures and optimize turbine performance).
- Prof. Jeroen De Kooning – Focuses on digital twin technology and control strategies for wind energy systems; works on adaptive control, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance for turbine drivetrains, and has developed test setups (like wind turbine emulators) to improve wind farm operation and grid support.
- Prof. Lieven Vandevelde – Expert in electrical power systems; researches the grid integration of wind energy and the operation/control of wind turbines in power networks, including improving electrical flexibility and stability as more renewables are added.
- Prof. Peter Sergeant – Works on electric machine design for wind turbines (generators); focuses on innovative generator technologies (geared and direct-drive), improving generator efficiency and circularity (e.g. reducing rare-earth magnets, using additive manufacturing for components) and addressing lifetime issues like thermal cycling and electrical insulation failure.