A method for determining the layout of a yaw system based on the Delphi method and the analytic hierarchy process

Wind power technology has been widely used due to its characteristics of environmental protection, sustainability and low cost. The yaw system plays a vital role in improving the energy capture efficiency of a wind turbine. However, the method of layout determination is lacking in the yaw system. To solve this problem, a method that combines the Delphi method and the analytic hierarchy process was proposed in this study. Twelve evaluation indexes, including transmission efficiency, ratio range, operating temperature range and others, were identified by screening 18 technical indicators using the Delphi method. Subsequently, the evaluation system of the yaw system was established. Then, six configuration schemes were selected. Experts' scores of schemes were collected according to the evaluation system and the score matrix of evaluation indexes was obtained. The hierarchical model of the evaluation indexes of the yaw system was established and the comprehensive weight was obtained by using the analytic hierarchy process. After calculating the comprehensive evaluation score, the comprehensive evaluation result was obtained. The 2Z-X(A) negative mechanism, which achieved the highest score of 0.9227, is the optimal scheme. A new method and specific process are provided for designers. The research gap in the scheme selection method for yaw systems is filled. A method that combines the Delphi method and the analytic hierarchy process is used to determine the layout of a wind turbine yaw system. Evaluation indexes are identified by screening multiple technical indicators, then six configurations are evaluated by an expert survey. Graphical Abstract