Wind turbine assembly for self-charging the vehicles

Abstract

Disclosed is a wind turbine assembly for integrating into a vehicle in a plurality of configurations. The wind turbine assembly includes a dual-flow channel system including a pair of channels, each including an air intake port and an air exit port. The wind turbine assembly also includes wind turbine generators positioned within each channel to direct airflow through turbines. The wind turbine assembly further includes a dual wind turbine generator positioned between the pair of channels to optimize airflow and energy generation. The wind turbine assembly includes a protective cover extending over both channels from the air intake port to the air exit port. The wind turbine assembly also includes an energy storage compartment connected to the dual-flow channel system and vehicle chassis, to store electrical energy generated by turbines. The wind turbine assembly further includes a control system to control the operation of wind turbine assembly.

Description

[0001] WIND TURBINE ASSEMBLY FOR SELF-CHARGING THE VEHICLES

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to wind turbine based charging system and more particularly relates to wind turbine assembly for self-charging the vehicles while in motion.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The urgent global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation has catalyzed remarkable advancements in power generation systems. Among these innovations is the development of a self-charging, wind-powered vehicle system to revolutionize vehicle power systems and significantly reduce environmental impact. As transportation has evolved, the pursuit of more efficient and environmentally responsible power solutions has similarly progressed. Historically, transportation power systems have transitioned from steam engines to internal combustion engines and, more recently, to electric motors, with each advancement driven by the desire to enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental repercussions. In the contemporary landscape, the imperative to reduce carbon emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels has sparked creative approaches to harness renewable energy.

[0006] Several prior applications have explored self-charging concepts for electric vehicles; however, they exhibit notable practical limitations that hinder their effectiveness.

[0007] For instance, US Patent Application 2017 / 034294 A describes a design featuring an air channel that directs airflow from the front of the car to exit near the windshield. However, positioning a wind turbine at the front significantly increases drag, disrupting vehicle efficiency. The resulting airflow creates high-pressure zones that disturb aerodynamic flow, potentially affecting visibility and compromising the vehicle's stability. Similarly, CN Patent Application 107585020 A proposes a comparable solution, with airflow exiting from the sides of the vehicle. This design introduces lateral pressure that could impact nearby vehicles, posing safety risks. Moreover, situating the turbine in the middle of the vehicle limits its capacity to harness sufficient airflow for meaningful battery charging.

[0008] Further, CN Patent Application 101508249 A for trains and KR Patent Application 20210021327 A for airplanes position wind turbines along the top or bottom of the vehicle. This approach raises stability and safety concerns due to the oscillating forces from variable wind conditions. Changes in vehicle speed or shifts in wind direction can produce lateral forces that create instability, thus posing additional safety risks. Furthermore, these designs often fail to maintain a consistent rotation of the turbines, resulting in inconsistent power generation and increased drag.

[0009] The aforementioned prior designs overlook essential factors critical for stable and effective power generation, such as optimal airflow direction, minimized aerodynamic drag, and strategic turbine placement. Consequently, they fall short of delivering a practical, safe, and reliable solution for self-charging electric vehicles utilizing wind energy.

[0010] Hence, there is a need for a wind turbine assembly for self-charging the vehicles while in motion that captures kinetic wind energy during vehicle motion to generate electricity, thereby lessening reliance on external charging sources, wind turbine assembly must also be adaptable to enable integration across a diverse range of vehicles, including cars, lorries, trains, trams, buses, and airplanes, offering a sustainable method to diminish the transportation sector's carbon footprint. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide a wind turbine assembly for self-charging the vehicles that integrates seamlessly into vehicles in multiple configurations to harness kinetic wind energy for electricity generation.

[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide a wind turbine assembly that can be attached in under- vehicle and top-layout configurations.

[0013] It is another object of the present invention to enhance vehicle efficiency and stability by optimally placing wind turbines, thereby minimizing aerodynamic drag and maximizing power generation.

[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a wind turbine assembly adaptable with various vehicles including but not limited to cars, lorries, trains, trams, buses, airplanes, and drones.

[0015] It is further object of the present invention to significantly prevent carbon emissions and environmental impact by implementing sustainable wind energy systems in vehicles.

[0016] It is further object of the present invention to reduce reliance on external charging sources for vehicles and lowering operational costs through efficient energy generation.

[0017] It is another object of the present invention to incorporate a plurality of wind turbines within each channel to enhance energy capture and output.

[0018] It is yet another object of the present invention to integrate a sensor mechanism that lifts wind turbines in response to road irregularities, while ensuring vehicle safety.

[0019] It is further object of the present invention to optimize air direction through dual-flow channels to maximize wind energy capture. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] The present invention will become clearly understood to those of ordinary skill in the art when descriptions of exemplary embodiments thereof are read with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an under- vehicle configuration of dual wind turbines generator that position the wind turbines underneath the vehicle, typically beneath the chassis or body.

[0022] Fig. 2 is a schematic view of a top-layout configuration of wind turbines securely mounted on the top surface of the vehicle.

[0023] Figs. 3 and 4 are perspective views of channels of a wind-turbine assembly in different configurations.

[0024] Fig. 5 is a schematic view of the wind-turbine assembly positioned horizontally alongside the wheels of a car.

[0025] Fig. 6 is a schematic view of the wind-turbine assembly positioned horizontally along the wheels, spanning from the front to the rear of a car.

[0026] Figs. 7 and 8 are schematic views of the under-vehicle arrangement of wind-turbine assembly.

[0027] Fig. 9 is schematic view of an under- vehicle arrangement of a wind-turbine assembly in a lorry, depicting three dual wind turbines and six channels.

[0028] Figs. 10 and 11 are schematic views of roof layout configurations of a wind-turbine assembly suitable for trains, with several dual turbines and channels.

[0029] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a battery storage system of a wind-turbine assembly for trains and trams. Figs. 13 and 14 are schematic views of under-vehicle layouts of a wind-turbine assembly for airplanes shown from different angles.

[0030] Fig. 15 is a schematic view of double layers of turbine rotation adjustment mechanism.

[0031] Fig. 16 is a schematic view of double layers of turbine rotation adjustment mechanism partially overlapped.

[0032] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the invention, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention. For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0034] The present invention relates to a wind turbine assembly for integration into a vehicle, including but not limited to cars, commercial delivery vehicles, buses, public transit vehicles, long-haul trucks, freight vehicles, off-road vehicles and SUVs, and electric scooters and motorcycles. The wind turbine assembly is used for self-charging the vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention is configured to optimize the capture of wind energy during vehicle motion and provides a self-sustaining energy source, thereby reducing reliance on external energy inputs.

[0035] In various implementations, the wind turbine assembly is configured for integration into a vehicle in multiple arrangements, i.e. configurations. The wind turbine assembly comprises a dual-flow channel configuration which houses a plurality of wind turbines optimized for energy generation. Positioned either on the vehicle’s undercarriage or its roof, the system captures airflow during vehicle motion and directs it through plurality of wind turbines, thereby generating electrical energy. An energy storage compartment and a control system are configured to facilitate efficient storage, management, and utilization of the generated energy.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a wind turbine assembly is disclosed, as shown in Figs. 5 to 11, 13 and 14, being arranged in various configurations. The wind turbine assembly includes a dual-flow channel system, a dual wind turbine generator 1, a plurality of wind turbines 3, a protective cover, at least one energy storage compartment 4, a control system, a sensor mechanism and one or more turbine rotation adjustment mechanisms 7.

[0037] In one embodiment, the dual-flow channel system comprising a pair of channels 2 arranged in either an L-shaped configuration as shown in Fig. 3 or a straight orientation as shown in Fig. 4. Each channel 2 has an air intake port 5 at the front end and an air exit port 6 at the rear end. This design ensures that airflow is maximally directed through the channels 2 during vehicle motion. Referring Fig. 3, the L-shaped configuration is particularly suitable for cars, that utilizes two channels 2, each housing six turbines, where the airflow exits centrally to optimize turbine efficiency.

[0038] Referring Fig. 1, the dual wind turbine generator 1 is positioned between the pair of channels 2 for balancing the airflow and improving energy output. The dual-wind turbine generator 1 is positioned beneath the vehicle to take full advantage of available space for optimal wind energy capture. These dual-wind turbine generator 1 shares blades with the dual-flow channel system, allowing both to generate AC electricity as they rotate. Thus, the generated AC is then converted to DC, consistent with the design of many existing electric vehicles. This configuration not only ensures unobstructed airflow for the turbines but also contributes to an aesthetically streamlined appearance.

[0039] In one exemplary embodiment, the wind turbine assembly is arranged in an under- vehicle configuration and another exemplary embodiment the wind turbine assembly is arranged in a top-layout configuration. In under-vehicle configuration, the channels 2 are mounted on the underside of the vehicle chassis and are secured by a plurality of mounting brackets. In this configuration, the channels 2 are positioned horizontally alongside the wheels of vehicle, thereby allowing airflow generated by vehicle motion to enter the channels 2 directly via air intake port 5 and leave the channels 2 via air exit port 6.

[0040] In top-layout configuration, the channels 2 are attached to a central support on the roof of the vehicle and are secured by a plurality of mounting brackets, thereby capturing airflow above the vehicle, where it is unobstructed and more intense at higher speeds. Fig. 2 depicts the wind turbine assembly to be placed over the roof of the vehicle, i.e. in the top-layout configuration. For example, this configuration includes twelve wind-turbines 3 arranged in a roof casing 10. In situations where the vehicle is expected to operate at high speeds, the toplayout configuration is beneficial. This orientation maximizes airflow capture and minimizes turbulence, while also improving energy generation efficiency.

[0041] For instance, the turbines as shown in Fig. 2 each measuring 30 centimetres in length, with a compact body of 15 centimetres and blades extending another 15 centimetres. The turbines used in this configuration and in other configuration are well-known in the prior-art, and, it is evident to any person skilled in the art that these turbines are developed in smaller size while also providing high-efficient energy conversion benefits. These smaller turbines are capable of generating substantial kwh, ensuring adequate energy generation for electric vehicles. The turbines are arranged on a rectangular box measuring 130 cm in length, 106 cm in width, and 17 cm in height, with open fronts and backs to allow unobstructed wind flow into the turbines.

[0042] In one aspect, each channel 2 houses around six to twelve wind turbines 3 positioned to capture kinetic energy from airflow. However, in various other aspects, the number of wind turbines 3 may vary according to the energy requirements of the vehicle. For example, in Fig. 5, around 10 turbines are utilized while in Fig. 6, about 12-24 turbines are accommodated to achieve high kW output with dual wind turbine generator 1. This configuration provides a compact, space-efficient solution for energy generation, with channels 2 positioned horizontally alongside the vehicle's wheels. In other words, these turbines are aligned within the channel 2 to sequentially harness the maximum possible energy from the airflow passing through the channel 2. As the air enters the air intake port 5 and reaches the plurality of turbines, the kinetic energy from wind is converted into electrical energy as the turbines rotate.

[0043] Referring Figs. 7 and 8, lorries are shown with the dual wind turbine connected with two channels 2. Lorries are well-suited to the under-vehicle and tube layout configurations, given their size and operational characteristics. Referring, Fig. 9, the extended length of lorries allows for flexible integration of multiple turbines beneath or within channels 2. In the setup as shown in Fig. 9, three dual turbines and six channels 2 are depicted, enabling the installation of several turbines within a single lorry, thereby substantially increasing energy generation capacity. Referring Figs. 10 and 11, a train is shown with the wind turbine assembly in the roof layout configuration accommodating multiple channels 2 and dual turbines. Due to space and track limitations, the under-vehicle layout is impractical for trains and trams. Thus, the roof layout effectively utilises available space for harnessing wind power, marking a significant stride toward sustainability in urban and long-distance transit.

[0044] The top-layout configuration is advantages for trains and trams, providing efficient energy generation without interference with tracks or infrastructure. This layout maximises roof space for optimised wind energy capture and integrates seamlessly with new and existing designs of trains.

[0045] Referring Figs. 13 and 14, the wind-turbine assembly is positioned below the aeroplanes and drones. The configurations of the wind- turbine assembly is adaptable, allowing for the application of all layout configurations — top, and beneath — to both aeroplanes and drones, making it possible to accommodate various design and operational needs. Aeroplanes and drones often benefit from the under-vehicle layout due to their unique shapes and aerodynamic requirements. This configuration optimises wind energy capture without compromising aerodynamics, making it the preferred choice for such aircraft, enhancing sustainability while maintaining functionality.

[0046] The protective cover is configured to extend over the channels 2 from the air intake port 5 to the air exit port 6. The protective cover protects the wind turbines 3 from debris, extreme weather, and high-speed winds. The cover is removable and may automatically open during charging operations to maximize airflow, thereby closing afterward to protect the turbines. To use in areas prone to extreme weather, the protective cover may be adapted with additional weather-resistant materials, as known in the existing art, to prevent damage. For example, the protective cover is made of polycarbonate cover, transparent, and is UV- resistant.

[0047] In an exemplary aspect, the generated electrical energy is directed into the energy storage compartment 4, which is shown in Fig. 12. The energy storage compartment 4 is configured to externally connect with the dual-flow channel system and the vehicle chassis. However, in addition to the vehicle chassis, the energy storage compartment 4 may be connected with other parts of the vehicle which provides reinforced support and attachment with the dualflow channel system. The energy storage compartment 4 is configured with an insulated wiring system to ensure safe transmission of electricity from the turbines to the storage unit. In one aspect, and as known in the art, a DC-DC converter is typically used to regulate and match the generated power to the battery storage requirements. Specifically, a buck-boost converter or a bidirectional DC-DC converter is utilized for storing the energy, as these converters adjust voltage levels up or down depending on the output from the wind turbines 3 and the requirements of the battery. For example, a buck-boost converter can either step up (boost) or step down (buck) the input voltage to match the battery’s needs, while making it suitable for systems where the input voltage may fluctuate due to varying wind conditions and vehicle speeds, such that a consistent output voltage is safe for the battery, thereby preventing overcharging and undercharging. For systems where energy needs to flow both to and from the battery, i.e. regenerative braking in electric vehicles, a bidirectional DC-DC converter can regulate energy in both directions. Further, this also handles voltage and current regulation and is useful in hybrid systems where energy transfer occurs between multiple storage devices or power sources. In some instance, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) DC-DC converter is used to maximize energy extraction from the wind turbines 3 by dynamically adjusting the operating point of the wind turbine generator 1 to achieve optimal power output, especially when wind speeds fluctuate.

[0048] The control system is configured to manage the operation of the plurality of turbines, in conjunction with the vehicle’s onboard system, and to optimize power management. In an exemplary aspect, the control system regulates energy distribution to the vehicle’s systems, provides feedback on operational status, and enhances brake performance as needed. In a specific aspect, the control system integrates with the vehicle’s main control system to allow the assembly to leverage braking energy, if available, for additional efficiency.

[0049] Referring Fig. 15, the turbine rotation adjustment mechanism 7 is configured with two overlapping layers 8, 9. Each layer is equipped with circular holes of equal diameter. This overlapping configuration is typically maintained when the vehicle is travelling at a steady speed or when wind conditions are moderate. This arrangement is applied to the front of both the top layout and under- vehicle layout to protect the generators from high-speed winds.

[0050] Referring Fig. 16, the turbine rotation adjustment mechanism 7 is configured with partially overlapped layers 8, 9. This partial overlap occurs in response to an increase in vehicle speed or stronger wind flow under adverse conditions. This configuration is applied to the front of both the top and bottom layouts to protect the generators from high-speed winds.

[0051] The sensor mechanism is positioned below each channel 2 and configured to adapt to varying road conditions. In one aspect, the sensor mechanism is integrated with an automatic lifting mechanism. The automatic lifting mechanism includes either pneumatic or hydraulic actuator system. The sensor mechanism includes one or more sensors that detect irregularities in the road surface while the vehicle is in motion, and prompt the automatic lifting mechanism to elevate the channels 2, wind turbines 3 or both, thereby preventing potential damage of the wind turbine assembly from rough terrain. Further, for vehicles that often travel on rough or uneven surfaces, the under-vehicle configuration benefits from the sensor-based lifting mechanism. In some aspects, integration of sensor mechanism safeguards the wind turbines and ensures operational stability. In some other aspects, the sensor mechanism includes one or more sensors to relay real-time data to the control system, which optimizes turbine speed and angle to maximize efficiency.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, then the vehicle is in motion, air enters the channels 2 through the air intake port 5 and is directed through the plurality of turbines. The dual-flow channel system ensures that airflow is balanced and maximized across the turbine array. This configuration allows continuous energy generation without additional fuel consumption, making the vehicle more energy efficient. The generated electricity is stored in the energy storage compartment 4 and is managed by the control system, which directs it as needed to various vehicle systems. This stored energy can either supplement or, in some instances, replace external battery charging, enhancing the vehicle’s range and self-sufficiency.

[0053] The advantages if the present invention includes, generating renewable power source, i.e. the wind turbine assembly harnesses wind energy generated by the vehicle’s motion, and provides a sustainable, self-replenishing energy source. As the wind turbine assembly allows for placement on either the roof or undercarriage, it provides flexibility based on vehicle type and usage. Further, the protective cover and sensor-based lifting mechanism reduce maintenance needs and increase lifespan. Additionally, as the control system integrates with the vehicle’s onboard systems, the wind turbine assembly enhances power management and efficiency. Since the wind turbine assembly is designed for flexible integration across various types of vehicles, especially those that provide suitable airflow dynamics and space to house the dualchannel system. Various use cases of the present invention are detailed below:

[0054] For electric and hybrid cars, the wind turbine assembly is beneficial as these typically rely heavily on stored battery power in providing an additional, renewable energy source. As the vehicle moves, the turbines can continuously generate electricity, recharging the battery and thereby extending the vehicle’s range. The dual-flow channel system can be installed in either an under-vehicle configuration or a roof-mounted setup, depending on the vehicle's design and airflow characteristics.

[0055] Commercial delivery vehicles like delivery vans and postal trucks also benefits significantly from the wind turbine assembly. In urban and suburban areas, where these vehicles make frequent stops, the assembly can harvest wind energy even in low-speed conditions. This consistent charging process helps to conserve battery life and may reduce the need for frequent external recharging, while ultimately saving operational costs.

[0056] In buses and public transit vehicles, the wind turbine assembly can function as a supplemental power source, while being potential to support auxiliary systems such as lighting, air conditioning, and passenger information displays. By positioning the dualchannel system beneath the vehicle, the turbines can capture airflow from constant movement through urban routes, and generate power without impacting the passenger or cargo space within the vehicle.

[0057] For long-haul trucks and freight vehicles that travel extensively on highways, either undervehicle or top-mounted configurations of the turbine assembly is beneficial. These vehicles typically travel at high speeds, where airflow is strong and consistent, particularly over the vehicle’s roof. By capturing the airflow, the turbine assembly can produce a substantial amount of auxiliary power, while offseting energy demands for onboard systems, such that it reduces reliance on fuel or battery recharges and enhances the overall energy efficiency of long-haul operations.

[0058] Off-road vehicles and SUVs are also compatible with the present invention. Equipped with the under-vehicle configuration, these vehicles can generate energy even in rugged terrain. To accommodate uneven roads, the wind turbine assembly includes a sensor-based lifting mechanism that automatically adjusts the position of the turbines to prevent damage from rough surfaces. This setup makes the system particularly suitable for emergency vehicles, outdoor expedition vehicles, and other applications where access to charging stations is limited.

[0059] In conclusion, for smaller vehicles such as electric scooters and motorcycles, a scaled-down version of the wind turbine assembly could be adapted to fit these compact forms. Although the channel 2 and turbines need to be modified to suit the smaller vehicle size, the underlying concept remains viable. The wind turbine assembly may be positioned at the rear or side of these vehicles, while allowing even lightweight electric vehicles to harness additional energy through wind capture.

[0060] In all these use cases, the wind turbine assembly provides a sustainable way to extend vehicle range and enhance battery life to modem and future transportation systems.

[0061] The referral numerals of key elements of the invention are as follows:

[0062] Dual wind turbine generator - 1

[0063] Channels - 2

[0064] Wind turbines - 3 Energy storage compartment - 4

[0065] Air intake port - 5

[0066] Air outlet port - 6

[0067] Turbine rotation adjustment mechanisms - 7

[0068] Layers of turbine rotation adjustment mechanisms - 8, 9

[0069] It will finally be understood that the disclosed embodiments are presently preferred examples of how to make and use the claimed invention, and are intended to be explanatory rather than limiting the scope of the invention as defined by the claims below. Reasonable variations and modifications of the illustrated examples in the foregoing written specification and drawings are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claim below. It should further be understood that to the extent the term "invention" is used in the written specification, it is not to be construed as a limited term as to number of claimed or disclosed inventions or the scope of any such invention, but as a term which has long been conveniently and widely used to describe new and useful improvements in technology. The scope of the invention supported by the above disclosure should accordingly be construed within the scope of what it teaches and suggests to those skilled in the art, and within the scope of any claims that the above disclosure supports. The scope of the invention is accordingly defined by the following claims.

[0070] This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the present invention. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 29 April 2025 (29.04.2025)Claim 1 (as amended):A vehicle -based energy recovery system comprising: a body structure forming one or more airflow corridors that are oriented to receive external air during vehicle motion; wherein the system includes a dual wind turbine generator arranged between said airflow corridors, characterized in that the dual wind turbine generator comprises two coaxial or adjacent turbines connected to a power storage unit, and the system further includes a protective cover mechanism configured to dynamically open or close based on driving conditions, said mechanism being sensor-controlled to respond to vehicle speed, airflow pressure, and road surface vibrations.Claim 2:The system of claim 1 , wherein each turbine in the dual wind turbine generator operates independently and delivers electrical output to separate battery modules.Claim 3:The system of claim 1, wherein the airflow corridors are formed in either the roof structure, undercarriage, or side panels of the vehicle.Claim 4:The system of claim 1, further comprising a control unit configured to optimize power generation by adjusting turbine angles in response to vehicle velocity and directional airflow.Claim 5:The system of claim 1, wherein the protective cover comprises a retractable housing made from lightweight, weather-resistant material.Claim 6:The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor system comprises accelerometers, air pressure sensors, and vibration detectors mounted on the vehicle chassis.Claim 7 :The system of claim 1, wherein the airflow corridors include guide vanes or ducts to channel air efficiently onto the turbine blades.Claim 8:The system of claim 1, wherein the dual turbine generator is modular and detachable from the vehicle frame for maintenance or replacement.Claim 9:The system of claim 1, wherein the power generated is directed to assist with braking, auxiliary power systems, or battery charging within an electric or hybrid drive train.Claim 10:The system of claim 1, wherein a user interface within the vehicle displays real-time turbine output, system status, and protective cover positioning.

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