The reliability issues associated with transmission or gearbox-equipped wind turbines and
the existing solutions of using direct-drive (gearless) and torque splitting transmissions in
wind turbines designs, are discussed. Accordingly, a range of applicability of the different
design gearbox design options as a function of the rated power of a wind turbine is
identified. As the rated power increases, it appears that the torque splitting and gearless
design options become the favored options, compared with the conventional, Continuously
Variable Transmission (CVT), and Magnetic Bearing transmissions which would continue
being as viable options for the lower power rated wind turbines range.