Vertical wind power generation system

Abstract

To provide a vertical type wind power generation system that generates electric power over a wind velocity range from a gentle wind range to a strong wind range to have high electric power generation efficiency, achieves safety, silence, and miniaturization of a facility, and also has mechanism components and a generator made tolerant to wind pressure and rotary energy to have superior economical efficiency.SOLUTION: A vertical type wind power generation system has a vertical blade which consists of a rotary shaft 2, a plurality of linear blades 3, an arm 4 retaining the linear blades on the rotary shaft, and an elevation angle adjusting mechanism 5 capable of varying a fitting angle of the linear blades to the arm or an elevation angle to a relative wind velocity. The vertical type wind power generation system is configured to adjust the elevation angle of the linear blades to the relative wind velocity or the fitting angle to the arm by the elevation angle adjusting mechanism, in respective wind velocity ranges from gentle wind to strong wind, according to a wind velocity, a wind direction, a rotation angle of the vertical blade, a rotating velocity of the vertical blade, a diameter of the vertical blade, a cross-sectional shape of the linear blades, a chord length of the linear blades, and the number of the linear blades, wherein the elevation angle adjusting mechanism 5 and a blade diameter varying mechanism 13 are used to make the adjustments in each of the respective wind velocity ranges.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vertical wind power generation system that converts the energy of wind into the rotational energy of blades and then converts the rotational energy into electrical energy by a generator, as well as to a blade configuration and a control method for the vertical wind power generation system. In particular, it relates to a significant improvement in the rotational energy of the blades in the vertical wind power generation system and the construction of the safety of the windmill during a storm.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, from the viewpoints of natural environmental protection by reducing harmful emission gases and utilization of natural energy, the development of wind power generation systems using the energy of natural wind has been promoted in various countries around the world, and a large number of wind power generation systems have been installed and are in operation.

[0003] Wind power generation systems are classified into horizontal type and vertical type. The horizontal type has a simple structure, but has problems such as a relatively high rotational speed of the blades, generation of wind noise, limited wind directions for power generation, and the need for a mechanism or control to always follow the wind direction because the wind receiving surface of the blades needs to face the wind directly. On the other hand, the vertical type has a slightly more complex structure and a relatively low conversion efficiency into rotational energy, but has the advantages of a relatively low rotational speed and no need to consider the wind direction.

[0004] In a vertical wind power generation system, to increase the conversion efficiency of rotational energy from the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy, it is necessary to increase the conversion efficiency of rotational energy at an average wind speed with a relatively high occurrence rate and to generate electricity as often as possible throughout the entire environmental conditions from light wind to strong wind. Furthermore, it is important to generate electricity as much as possible in strong wind and storm areas, and for the blades and poles to withstand the wind pressure and for the generator and brake to safely handle the rotational torque of the blades (such as straight blades). Here, the rotational energy conversion efficiency is defined as Cp, which is the conversion efficiency (%) of converting the kinetic energy of the wind passing through the blade's windward surface per unit time into the rotational energy of the blade, also known as the rotational energy conversion efficiency or power generation efficiency. Also, the value obtained by dividing this rotational energy (W) by the angular velocity ω (rad / s; it can also be in revolutions per minute, rpm) is the rotational torque (N·m) in the tangential direction of the entire vertical blade of the cylindrical rotating body. The above-mentioned wind energy is 1 / 2ρAV 3 is represented by, where A is the windward area (diameter × blade length) of the vertical blade (m 2 ), V is the wind speed (m / s), and ρ is the air density (kg / m 3 ).

[0005] To generate electricity in the light wind region, a blade configuration that can smoothly convert the kinetic energy of the wind into the rotational energy of the blade is required. To generate electricity as much as possible in the strong wind region, it is necessary to construct a vertical wind power generation system such that the blades, poles, arms, generators, and brakes are not mechanically and electrically damaged even against excessive rotational energy. Furthermore, to generate electricity in the storm region and maintain the wind power generation system safely, it is necessary to withstand the wind pressure and the rotational energy of the blades at high speeds in the strong wind and storm regions.

[0006] Therefore, as configurations for improving the starting characteristics, a vertical wind power generation system has been proposed that has a configuration of increasing the drag by cutting out a part of the airfoil (Patent Document 1), or a configuration of rotating the blade using a cam or link mechanism (Patent Document 2). Furthermore, Patent Document 3 proposes a vertical wind power generation system that improves the power generation efficiency by making the blade mounting angle adjustable. Also, a vertical wind power generation system has been proposed that makes the blade diameter and blade angle variable to optimize the power generation amount.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

[0008] However, in the vertical wind power generation systems described in the above-mentioned conventional Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, there is no consideration or disclosure of the theory of the fluid force (aeroelasticity) acting on the most essential blades, such as what conditions should be met for the blades, etc. to increase the rotational torque of the vertical blades, how the tip speed ratio (the ratio of the wind speed to the blade rotation speed), the blade performance, and the Reynolds number are related, and how it is affected if the airfoil shape changes. Therefore, it is unclear at what angle of attack (or the mounting angle or pitch angle with respect to the arm) with respect to the relative wind speed the rotational torque or the power generation efficiency (Cp) will increase. Also, since the aeroelastic optimal solution has not been achieved, for example, even if a high power generation efficiency blade rotational torque is obtained at a light wind speed of about 2 m / s, near the average wind speed (for example, around 6 m / s) where the occurrence frequency is the highest, on the contrary, problems such as a decrease in the power generation efficiency due to the deviation of the optimal angle of attack where the influence of the blade airfoil shape and the lift force are the largest and a decrease in the lift force will occur. Conversely, even if power generation is possible in a storm area, problems such as a significant decrease in the power generation efficiency and almost no power generation in a light wind area or at the average wind speed will occur. Therefore, it is difficult to provide a vertical wind power generation system with high power generation efficiency over a wide range of wind speeds.

[0009] In Patent Document 1, which has a notch formed in the blade, there is a possibility that the power generation efficiency may be somewhat improved at a light wind speed, but conversely, the power generation efficiency decreases in the region where the average wind speed is high. There is a problem that due to the notch in the airfoil shape of the blade, the original blade characteristics are lost and the power generation amount (power generation efficiency) during rotation near the average wind speed significantly decreases due to a large decrease in the lift force.

[0010] In addition, in the adjustment of the angle of attack (attachment angle) of the blade using the cam and link in Patent Document 2, it is effective only for a specific wind direction. When the wind direction changes, there are problems such as a significant deterioration in the rotational energy conversion efficiency (power generation efficiency), a narrow adjustment range of the angle of attack, and furthermore, there is no consideration at all regarding what kind of angle adjustment of the angle of attack is to be performed and to what extent the effect is. There was also a problem that the optimal value of the angle of attack changes greatly if the wind speed and wind direction change.

[0011] Furthermore, Patent Document 3 shows a configuration for adjusting the angle of attack to improve the power generation efficiency. However, it is not considered that there is an optimal angle of attack according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, airfoil, chord length and number of blades of the blade, and rotation speed of the vertical blade, and it is necessary to adjust the angle of attack according to those values. In addition, there is a limit to reducing the wind pressure received by the blade during a storm, and when the wind direction changes, there is a time delay until the angle of attack is adjusted, and it is difficult to safely protect the blade and pole from the wind pressure in the case of a gust or a change in wind direction. In addition, Patent Document 4 does not consider the essential matter of how to control the angle of attack that determines the lift and drag of the blade with respect to the so-called relative wind speed, which is the synthesis of the wind speed and the rotation speed of the blade. Furthermore, by making the upper end or the lower end of the blade slidable arbitrarily with respect to the rotation axis of the blade, it becomes difficult to set an optimal angle of attack because the blade diameter and rotation speed of the vertical windmill are different at each position in the vertical cross-section of the blade, and it is difficult to maximize the power generation efficiency, to accurately control the power generation efficiency, and to reduce noise.

[0012] Thus, in the vertical wind power generation system disclosed in the prior art, there are problems that the blades cannot be rotated and started in light winds, the power generation efficiency decreases near the average wind speed, it is difficult to control the rotational speed of the blades during storms, and the excessive wind energy during storms causes significant deterioration in the life and reliability of the vertical wind power generation system due to strength problems. In addition, relatively loud noise is generated due to vortices generated around the blades, etc., and there is a problem that it cannot be installed near residential areas.

[0013] The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and effectively controls the generation status of lift and drag at various wind directions and wind speeds, and efficiently converts them into the rotational torque of the vertical blades, thereby significantly improving the power generation efficiency from light winds to strong winds compared to the prior art, and also enabling efficient reduction of the rotational energy of the blades and highly accurate control of the rotational speed of the blades even in strong wind areas and storm areas, and realizing a significant improvement in power generation efficiency and a significant improvement in the reliability and life of the equipment. The present invention provides a vertical wind power generation system. Furthermore, by adjusting the angle of attack with respect to the optimal relative wind speed according to the blade diameter, wind speed, and wind direction, a safe, highly efficient, and low-noise vertical wind power generation system from the light wind region to the storm region is provided.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0014] In order to solve the above problems, the invention according to claim 1 of the present invention has a vertical blade composed of a rotating shaft, a plurality of straight blades arranged in parallel with the rotating shaft, an arm for holding the straight blades on the rotating shaft, and an angle of attack adjustment mechanism for making the attachment angle of the straight blades to the arm variable, and in each wind speed range of the light wind region, normal power generation wind speed, strong wind region, and storm region, according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, rotation speed of the vertical blade, diameter of the vertical blade, cross-sectional shape of the straight blade, chord length of the straight blade, and number of the straight blades, the angle of attack of the straight blade with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle to the arm is adjusted by the angle of attack adjustment mechanism.

[0015] Similarly, the invention according to claim 2 is composed of a generator and the vertical blades, and the rotating shaft is coupled to a substantially rotation center portion of the generator.

[0016] Similarly, the invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that the angle adjustment mechanism uses a motor and gears and / or a belt, or a linear actuator as a drive source.

[0017] Similarly, the invention according to claim 4 is characterized in that the rotation speed of the vertical blades is detected by a rotation sensor configured around the rotating shaft or the generator, and the detection of the wind speed and / or wind direction and the set value of the angle adjustment are estimated from the change in the rotation torque or output of the vertical blades.

[0018] Similarly, the invention according to claim 5 is characterized in that the set value of the angle adjustment refers to a numerical value calculated in advance based on an output curve for each wind speed set in advance.

[0019] Similarly, the invention according to claim 6 estimates the set value of the angle adjustment from the change in the rotation torque or output of the vertical blades.

[0020] Similarly, the invention according to claim 7 has a vertical blade composed of a rotating shaft, a plurality of straight blades arranged in parallel with the rotating shaft, an arm for holding the straight blades on the rotating shaft, and the vertical blade composed of the rotating shaft, the arm, and the plurality of straight blades, and the blade diameter of the vertical blade is made variable by deforming the shape of the arm with a blade diameter variable mechanism that slides or rotates a part of the arm according to the wind speed.

[0021] Similarly, the invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that the set values of the blade diameter corresponding to the wind speeds in the light wind region, normal power generation wind speed region, strong wind region, and storm region refer to numerical values calculated in advance.

[0022] Similarly, the invention according to claim 9 has the generator and the vertical blade equipped with the angle adjustment mechanism and the blade diameter variable mechanism, and in each wind speed range of the light wind range, the normal power generation wind speed, the strong wind range, and the storm range, according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, the rotation speed of the vertical blade, the diameter of the vertical blade, the cross-sectional shape of the straight blade, the chord length of the straight blade, and the number of the straight blades, the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed of the straight blade or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is adjusted by the angle adjustment mechanism, and the blade diameter is adjusted by the blade diameter variable mechanism.

[0023] Similarly, the invention according to claim 10 is characterized in that the set values of the angle adjustment and the blade diameter refer to the numerical values calculated in advance based on the output curve for each wind speed set in advance.

[0024] Similarly, the invention according to claim 11 is characterized in that, in the set values of the angle adjustment and the blade diameter corresponding to each wind speed range of the light wind range, the normal power generation wind speed, the strong wind range, and the storm range, the set value of the blade diameter refers to the numerical value calculated in advance, and the set value of the angle adjustment is estimated from the change in the rotational torque or output of the vertical blade.

[0025] Similarly, the invention according to claim 12 has a stop mode in which, in a state where the wind has stopped, in each wind speed range of the light wind range, the normal power generation wind speed, the strong wind range, and the storm range, the blade diameter is minimized and the angle adjustment is performed in the preset wind speed range, and the rotation of the vertical blade is stopped.

[0026] Similarly, the invention according to claim 13 is characterized in that, during the stop mode, a braking force for preventing the rotation of the rotating shaft is generated by a disk brake or the generator.

[0027] Similarly, the invention according to claim 14 is characterized in that it is used as an emergency power source for controlling the furling of a horizontal offshore wind turbine.

[0028] Similarly, the invention according to claim 15 is characterized in that the vertical wind power generation system is installed on a part of the pole of the horizontal offshore windmill.

[0029] Similarly, the invention according to claim 16 is characterized in that the set value of the blade diameter is maximized at the normal power generation wind speed, the blade diameter is made smaller than the set value at the normal power generation wind speed in the light wind region and the strong wind region, and the set value of the blade diameter is made even smaller than the set value in the strong wind region in the storm region and during the stop mode.

[0030] Similarly, the invention according to claim 17 is characterized in that the light wind region has a wind speed of less than 3 m / s, the normal wind speed has a wind speed of 3 m / s or more and less than 12 m / s, the strong wind region has a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, and the storm region has a wind speed range of 20 m / s or more.

Advantages of the Invention

[0031] The vertical wind power generation system according to the present invention is configured as described above. According to the vertical wind power generation system related to the invention described in claims 1 to 6, it has a vertical blade composed of a rotating shaft, a plurality of substantially straight blades, an arm for holding the substantially straight blades on the rotating shaft, and an angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism for making the attachment angle of the substantially straight blades to the arm variable. In each wind speed range from light wind to storm, the angle of attack of the substantially straight blades with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle to the arm is adjusted by the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, rotation speed of the vertical blade, diameter of the vertical blade, cross-sectional shape of the substantially straight blade, chord length of the substantially straight blade, and number of the substantially straight blades. It is a vertical wind power generation system characterized by this.

[0032] In addition, the set value of the angle adjustment of the angle of attack or the mounting angle is calculated in advance or estimated from the change in the rotational torque or output of the vertical blade based on the set value calculated in advance. Furthermore, in an environment from light wind to stormy wind, the set value of the angle adjustment is calculated based on the output curve for each wind speed set in advance in consideration of the power generation amount of the wind turbine, requirements such as noise in the installed environment, and safety, and the angle adjustment is performed with reference to the data.

[0033] With this configuration, in the light wind region, it becomes relatively easy to rotate and the power generation efficiency increases. Near the average wind speed, the power generation efficiency increases and a significant reduction in the noise level can be achieved. In the strong wind region, the set value of the angle adjustment is selected to have output characteristics that consider the balance between the desired output, the mechanical strength of the blade, pole, arm, brake, etc., the electrical capabilities such as the rated output of the generator, and the safety of the entire wind turbine. Even during a storm, it is possible to select the set value of the angle adjustment to have output characteristics that consider the balance of the safety of the entire wind turbine in terms of the desired output including stopping, the mechanical strength of the blade, pole, arm, brake, etc., and the electrical capabilities such as the rated output of the generator. Thus, it becomes possible to achieve a good balance among the power generation performance, safety, and quietness of the vertical axis wind power generation system.

[0034] Also, according to the vertical axis wind power generation system according to the invention described in claims 7 to 8, it has a vertical blade composed of a rotating shaft, a plurality of substantially straight blades, an arm that holds the substantially straight blades on the rotating shaft, and a vertical blade composed of the rotating shaft, the arm, and the plurality of straight blades. The blade diameter of the vertical blade is made variable by deforming the shape of the arm with a blade diameter variable mechanism that slides or rotates a part of the arm according to the wind speed.

[0035] With this configuration, when the power generation amount is small during stoppage or in the light wind range (less than 3 m / s), the blade diameter is reduced to secure space. In the normal power generation wind speed near the average wind speed (3 m / s or more and less than 12 m / s), the blade diameter is increased as much as possible to increase the power generation amount. In the strong wind range (12 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s), the blade diameter is reduced in consideration of power generation amount and safety. In the storm range (20 m / s or more), the blade diameter is reduced as much as possible to reduce the wind pressure from the perspective of safety, so that it is possible to more balance the power generation performance and safety of the vertical wind power generation system.

[0036] Furthermore, according to the vertical wind power generation system according to the invention described in claims 9 to 13, it has the generator and the vertical blade equipped with the angle of attack adjustment mechanism and the blade diameter variable mechanism, and the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed of the substantially straight blade or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is adjusted by the angle of attack adjustment mechanism according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, and rotation speed of the vertical blade, and the blade diameter is adjusted by the blade diameter variable mechanism.

[0037] With this configuration, when the power generation amount is small in the light wind range, while reducing the blade diameter to secure space, the angle adjustment which is the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is performed to increase the power generation efficiency or power generation amount while securing space. In the normal power generation wind speed near the average wind speed, the blade diameter is increased as much as possible and the angle adjustment which is the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is performed to realize an increase in power generation amount and quietness. In the strong wind range, while reducing the blade diameter in consideration of power generation amount and safety, the angle adjustment which is the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is performed to achieve both power generation amount and safety. In the storm range, the blade diameter is reduced as much as possible to reduce the wind pressure from the perspective of safety, and the angle adjustment which is the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is performed to enable power generation in the storm range and to more balance the power generation performance and safety of the vertical wind power generation system.

[0038] In particular, when the blade diameter is increased, if the wind speed is the same, the rotational speed at which the maximum output is generated becomes relatively slower compared to the case where the blade diameter is small. When the blade diameter is decreased, if the wind speed is the same, the rotational speed at which the maximum output is generated becomes relatively faster compared to the case where the blade diameter is large. In particular, an increase in the rotational speed in a storm area leads to deterioration of mechanical strength. Therefore, by performing the angle adjustment that is the angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed, the mounting angle with respect to the arm, or the pitch angle, it is possible to significantly suppress an increase in the rotational speed in the storm area, enabling stable power generation even in the storm area, and enabling the power generation performance and safety of the vertical-axis wind power generation system to be realized in a more balanced manner. Also, in each wind speed range from a light wind area to a storm area, by adopting a configuration having a stop mode in which the blade diameter is minimized and the angle adjustment is performed and the rotation of the vertical blade is stopped in a preset wind speed range, it is possible to further enhance the safety of the vertical-axis wind power generation system. In the stop mode, by adopting a configuration in which a braking force for preventing the rotation of the rotating shaft is generated by a disk brake or the generator, it is possible to further enhance the safety of the vertical-axis wind power generation system.

[0039] Furthermore, according to the vertical-axis wind power generation system related to the invention described in claim 14, the vertical-axis wind power generation system is configured to be used as an emergency power source for the furling control of a horizontal offshore wind turbine.

[0040] With this configuration, even when the blades of the horizontal offshore wind turbine are stopped and power generation is stopped during abnormal weather such as typhoons or bomb cyclones, it can be used as a power source when performing furling control that does not align the blade direction directly with the wind direction, enabling the realization of a highly safe vertical-axis wind power generation system.

[0041] Furthermore, according to the vertical wind power generation system related to the invention described in claim 15, the vertical wind power generation system is configured to be installed on a part of the pole of the horizontal offshore windmill.

[0042] With this configuration, it becomes possible to share the pole of the vertical wind power generation system with the pole of the horizontal offshore windmill, enabling a significant cost reduction for the emergency power supply of the horizontal offshore windmill and the vertical wind power generation system, and making it possible to more balanceably achieve cost reduction and safety of the vertical wind power generation system.

[0043] Furthermore, according to the vertical wind power generation system related to the invention described in claim 16, the set value of the blade diameter is maximized at the normal power generation wind speed, the blade diameter is made smaller than the set value at the normal power generation wind speed in the light wind region and the strong wind region, and the set value of the blade diameter is made even smaller than that in the strong wind region during the storm region and the stop mode. With this configuration, it is possible to select an optimal blade diameter according to the wind speed, and it becomes possible to select an optimal power generation efficiency and wind pressure according to the wind speed. Furthermore, by adjusting the angle of attack together with the blade diameter, it becomes possible to select an optimal power generation efficiency, power generation amount, wind pressure, and quietness.

[0044] According to the vertical wind power generation system related to the invention described in claim 17, the light wind region has a wind speed of less than 3 m / s, the normal power generation wind speed has a wind speed of 3 m / s or more and less than 12 m / s, the strong wind region has a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, and the storm region has a wind speed range of 20 m / s or more. With this configuration, it becomes possible to select and set an optimal blade diameter and angle of attack according to each wind speed. However, the setting of this wind speed range is an example, and there is no problem with the effect of the present invention even if the wind speed range at each wind speed is changed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0045]

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0046] (Process of arriving at one form of the present invention) The inventor has intensively studied the improvement of the power generation efficiency of the conventional vertical-axis windmill described in the "Background Art" and the power generation and equipment maintenance measures in the storm region. At this time, the wind speed regions are defined as a light wind region (less than 3 m / s), a normal power generation wind speed (3 m / s to less than 12 m / s), a strong wind region (12 m / s to less than 20 m / s), and a storm region (20 m / s or more).

[0047] In the case of conventional vertical wind turbines, due to their structure, it is difficult to increase the power generation efficiency (Cp) in all wind speed ranges from the light wind range to the normal power generation wind speed. Also, although it is possible to increase the optimal power generation efficiency (Cp) in a specific wind speed range, it is difficult to increase the power generation efficiency (Cp) over a wide range of wind speeds. Furthermore, it is difficult to generate electricity in each of the wind speed ranges of light wind, normal power generation wind speed, strong wind, and storm wind, and to safely maintain the equipment against large wind pressures. On the other hand, even if the power generation efficiency (Cp) is set extremely low and the configuration is such that power generation is only carried out in the storm wind range, there are problems such as hardly generating electricity at the normal power generation wind speed and a significant increase in equipment costs such as poles in order to increase the rigidity of the equipment. Also, there has been no countermeasure regarding the noise caused by the blade's wind shear noise, and there has been a problem that it is limited to install conventional wind turbines near residential areas.

[0048] Thus, conventional vertical wind turbines have had the problem that it is very difficult to achieve both high power generation efficiency (Cp) in a wide range of wind speeds from the light wind range to the storm wind range, safety in safely maintaining the equipment from the storm, quietness, and miniaturization while generating electricity in a wide range of wind speeds from the light wind range to the storm wind range. Also, in order to cope with equipment maintenance in the storm wind range, an enormous cost is required to configure the mechanical components such as poles, blades, rotating shafts, arms, brakes, etc. and generators to withstand wind pressure and rotational energy, and there has been a problem that the equipment cost becomes too high. Also, if only the blade diameter is reduced simply to lower the wind pressure, it is difficult to optimize the power generation efficiency (Cp), the blade rotation speed becomes too fast, exceeding the allowable capacity of the generator, blades, arms, etc., and there has been a problem that it is difficult to set the optimal power generation amount, rotation speed, and rigidity for various wind speed ranges.

[0049] Furthermore, when considering the equipment investment of the wind turbine, there has been a problem that the investment recovery period is significantly extended if the power generation efficiency (Cp) does not increase significantly compared to conventional vertical wind turbines. On the other hand, when performing furling control to prevent the wind from directly facing the blade in the storm area in a horizontal offshore wind turbine, an emergency power source that enables furling control even when the blade stops is required. However, there was a problem in that a countermeasure to replace the diesel engine was necessary to stably supply power even during a long-term storm.

[0050] In addition, conventional wind turbines had a problem in that the generation of noise due to the separation of vortices and flows generated around the blade was large, and it was difficult to install them near residential areas due to the generation of noise at night and the like.

[0051] Therefore, as a result of repeated studies on this problem, the present inventor obtained the following findings. That is, it was considered whether a configuration could be realized in which the power generation efficiency (Cp) was increased as much as possible in the entire area from the light wind area to the normal power generation wind speed, and power generation was performed in consideration of the balance between the power generation amount (power generation efficiency) and device maintenance as much as possible in the strong wind area and the storm area.

[0052] By adjusting the angle of attack of the blade, the power generation efficiency is significantly improved. In the strong wind area and the storm area, not only the angle of attack is adjusted, but also the diameter of the blade is changed and controlled in combination, and the rotational speed of the blade and the power generation amount are set in consideration of the performance of the generator. Considering the load on the pole, blade, arm, etc. due to wind pressure, an optimal angle of attack with respect to the relative wind speed and an optimal blade diameter for each wind speed range are set in advance. Furthermore, the angle of the blade is adjusted to reduce noise. In addition, the optimal angle of attack may be learned during operation. Furthermore, in the light wind area or when stopped, the blade diameter may be minimized and folded in to secure space, or the blade may be folded in with the minimum diameter even in the storm area, and at that time, the rotating shaft can be fixed by a brake to more safely maintain the equipment.

[0053] And the present invention provides the following aspects. The vertical wind power generation system according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a rotating shaft, a plurality of straight blades arranged in parallel with the rotating shaft, an arm for holding the straight blades on the rotating shaft, and an angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism for making the attachment angle of the straight blades to the arm variable. It has a vertical blade, and in each wind speed range of a light wind area, a normal power generation wind speed, a strong wind area, and a storm area, according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, rotation speed of the vertical blade, diameter of the vertical blade, cross-sectional shape of the straight blade, chord length of the straight blade, and number of the straight blades, the angle of attack of the straight blade with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle to the arm is adjusted by the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism.

[0054] According to the above configuration, by adjusting the optimal angle of attack of the vertical blade with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle of the vertical blade to the arm according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, rotation speed of the vertical blade, diameter of the vertical blade, cross-sectional shape of the substantially straight blade, chord length of the substantially straight blade, and number of the substantially straight blades, it is possible to significantly improve the rotational energy of the vertical blade or the power generation efficiency (Cp) of the vertical wind power generation system in the light wind area, the normal power generation wind speed, and the strong wind area. Further, in the strong wind area and the storm area, it is possible to set the optimal angle of attack of the vertical blade with respect to the relative wind speed while considering the wind pressure received by the vertical blade, the rotational energy of the vertical blade, and the rotational speed of the vertical blade, and while considering the balance of wind pressure, power generation amount, and rotational speed.

[0055] Also, the vertical wind power generation system according to the second aspect of the present invention is composed of a generator and the vertical blade, and the rotating shaft is coupled to a substantially rotation center portion of the generator. According to the above configuration, it becomes possible for the vertical blade to rotate with high precision and efficiency, and it becomes possible to construct a vertical wind power generation system with less power generation loss from low-speed rotation to high-speed rotation.

[0056] In addition, the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism of the vertical-axis wind power generation system according to the third aspect of the present invention is configured to use a motor and gears and / or a belt, or a linear actuator as a drive source. According to the above configuration, by using a motor such as a stepping motor, a DC motor, or an AC motor and gears or a belt, or a linear actuator as a drive source, it is possible to realize the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism with a simple configuration.

[0057] In addition, the rotation speed of the vertical blade of the vertical-axis wind power generation system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is detected by a rotation sensor configured around the rotation shaft or the generator, and the detection of the wind speed and / or the wind direction and the set value of the angle adjustment are estimated from the change in the rotation torque or output of the vertical blade. With this configuration, by estimating the wind speed and the wind direction, it is possible to remove both or either one of the wind direction meter and the wind speed meter. Furthermore, it is possible to correct the calculation error of the angle of attack that becomes the set value of the angle adjustment, the assembly error of the vertical blade, the mounting error of the vertical wing, and the like.

[0058] In addition, the set value of the angle adjustment in the vertical-axis wind power generation system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is configured to refer to a numerical value calculated in advance based on an output curve for each wind speed set in advance. With this configuration, it is possible to accurately verify in advance the set value of the angle adjustment that becomes the optimal angle of attack of the vertical wing, or the mounting angle of the vertical wing with respect to the arm, or the angle of attack of the vertical wing with respect to the relative wind speed according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, the rotation speed of the vertical blade, the diameter of the vertical blade, the cross-sectional shape of the substantially straight wing, the chord length of the substantially straight wing, and the number of substantially straight wings. At the same time, by calculating and preparing in advance, it is possible to set the set value of the angle adjustment quickly and accurately according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, and the rotation speed of the vertical blade.

[0059] In addition, the set value of the angle adjustment in the vertical wind power generation system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention is configured to be estimated from the change in the rotational torque or output of the vertical blade. With this configuration, it is possible to correct the calculation error of the angle of attack, the assembly error of the vertical blade, the mounting error of the vertical wing, etc., and it becomes possible to perform the angle adjustment with higher accuracy.

[0060] In addition, the vertical wind power generation system according to the seventh aspect of the present invention has a vertical blade composed of a rotating shaft, a plurality of straight blades arranged in parallel with the rotating shaft, an arm that holds the straight blades on the rotating shaft, and the vertical blade composed of the rotating shaft, the arm, and the plurality of straight blades, and the shape of the arm is deformed by a blade diameter variable mechanism that slides or rotates a part of the arm according to the wind speed, so that the blade diameter of the vertical blade is variable. With this configuration, in a strong wind area or a storm area, it is possible to reduce the blade diameter to reduce the wind pressure, or in a light wind area or when there is no wind, it is possible to reduce the blade diameter and utilize it as an extra space. In this way, it becomes possible to select an optimal blade diameter according to various wind speeds, and it becomes possible to accurately achieve the balance between power generation efficiency, power generation amount, and preservation of the safety of the equipment.

[0061] In addition, the set value of the blade diameter according to each wind speed of the light wind area, normal power generation wind speed, strong wind area, and storm area of the vertical wind power generation system according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is configured to refer to the numerically calculated values in advance. With this configuration, it is possible to accurately verify the blade diameter in advance according to the wind speed, and by calculating and preparing in advance, it becomes possible to set the set value of the angle adjustment quickly and accurately according to the wind speed.

[0062] Moreover, the vertical wind power generation system according to the ninth aspect of the present invention includes the generator and the vertical blade equipped with the angle adjustment mechanism and the blade diameter variable mechanism, and in each wind speed range of the light wind range, the normal power generation wind speed, the strong wind range, and the storm range, according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, the rotation speed of the vertical blade, the diameter of the vertical blade, the cross-sectional shape of the straight blade, the chord length of the straight blade, and the number of the straight blades, the angle of attack of the straight blade with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle with respect to the arm is adjusted by the angle adjustment mechanism, and the blade diameter is adjusted by the blade diameter variable mechanism. With this configuration, it becomes possible to adjust the angle of attack of the straight blade with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle with respect to the arm and the blade diameter optimally according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, the rotation speed of the vertical blade, the diameter of the vertical blade, the cross-sectional shape of the substantially straight blade, the chord length of the substantially straight blade, and the number of the substantially straight blades, and it becomes possible to realize the balance between the power generation efficiency, the power generation amount, and the safety of the equipment with higher precision.

[0063] Also, the angle adjustment and the set value of the blade diameter of the vertical wind power generation system according to the tenth aspect of the present invention are configured to refer to the numerical values calculated in advance based on the output curve for each wind speed set in advance. With this configuration, it is possible to accurately verify in advance the set value of the angle adjustment that becomes the optimal angle of attack of the vertical blade or the attachment angle of the vertical blade with respect to the arm, or the angle of attack of the vertical blade with respect to the relative wind speed, and the blade diameter according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, the rotation speed of the vertical blade, the diameter of the vertical blade, the cross-sectional shape of the substantially straight blade, the chord length of the substantially straight blade, and the number of the substantially straight blades. Also, by calculating and preparing in advance, it becomes possible to set the set value of the angle adjustment and the blade diameter quickly and accurately according to the wind speed, the wind direction, the rotation angle of the vertical blade, and the rotation speed of the vertical blade.

[0064] In addition, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 11th aspect of the present invention is configured such that, in the set values of the angle adjustment and the blade diameter corresponding to each wind speed range of a light wind range, a normal power generation wind speed, a strong wind range, and a storm range, the set value of the blade diameter refers to a numerically calculated value in advance, and the set value of the angle adjustment is estimated from the change in the rotational torque or output of the vertical blade. With this configuration, it becomes possible to correct the calculation error of the angle of attack that becomes the set value of the angle adjustment, the assembly error of the vertical blade, and the mounting error of the vertical wing, and it becomes possible to perform the angle adjustment with higher accuracy.

[0065] In addition, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 12th aspect of the present invention has a stop mode in which, in a state where the wind has stopped, in each wind speed range of a light wind range, a normal power generation wind speed, a strong wind range, and a storm range, the blade diameter is minimized and the angle adjustment is performed in a preset wind speed range, and the rotation of the vertical blade is stopped. With this configuration, it is possible to greatly reduce the influence of the wind pressure received by the vertical blade, the straight wing, the arm, the pole, and the rotating shaft in the strong wind range or the storm range, and it is possible to minimize the space occupied by the vertical wind power generation system in the light wind range or when there is no wind, and it is possible to realize a vertical wind power generation system excellent in equipment maintainability and space efficiency.

[0066] In addition, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 13th aspect of the present invention is configured such that, in the stop mode, a braking force for preventing the rotation of the rotating shaft is generated by a disk brake or the generator. With this configuration, it becomes possible to surely stop the rotation of the vertical blade in the stop mode, and it becomes possible to realize a vertical wind power generation system that is further excellent in equipment maintainability and safety.

[0067] In addition, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 14th aspect of the present invention is configured to be used as an emergency power source for the furling control of a horizontal offshore windmill. With this configuration, even when the blades of the horizontal offshore wind turbine stop and power generation ceases in the storm area, it becomes possible to generate electricity and supply power for furling control, and it becomes possible to realize a vertical wind power generation system that is even more excellent in equipment maintainability and safety.

[0068] Moreover, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 15th aspect of the present invention is configured to be installed on a part of the pole of the horizontal offshore wind turbine. With this configuration, it becomes possible to share the pole of the vertical wind power generation system with the pole of the horizontal offshore wind turbine, enabling a significant cost reduction for the emergency power supply of the horizontal offshore wind turbine and the vertical wind power generation system. It becomes possible to more balancedly realize cost reduction and safety of the vertical wind power generation system, and it becomes possible to realize a vertical wind power generation system that is even lower in cost and excellent in safety.

[0069] Moreover, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 16th aspect of the present invention is configured such that the set value of the blade diameter is maximized at the normal power generation wind speed, the blade diameter is made smaller than the set value at the normal power generation wind speed in the light wind area and the strong wind area, and the set value of the blade diameter is made even smaller than that in the strong wind area in the storm area and during the stop mode. With this configuration, it becomes possible to select an optimal blade diameter according to the wind speed, and it becomes possible to select optimal power generation efficiency and wind pressure according to the wind speed. Furthermore, by adjusting the angle of attack together with the blade diameter, it becomes possible to select optimal power generation efficiency, power generation amount, wind pressure, and quietness.

[0070] Moreover, the vertical wind power generation system according to the 17th aspect of the present invention is configured such that the light wind area has a wind speed of less than 3 m / s, the normal power generation wind speed is a wind speed of 3 m / s or more and less than 12 m / s, the strong wind area is a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, and the storm area is a wind speed range of 20 m / s or more. With this setting, it becomes possible to select and set the optimal blade diameter and angle of attack according to each wind speed. However, the setting of this wind speed range is an example, and even if the wind speed range at each wind speed is changed, there is no problem with the effect of the present invention.

[0071] With these configurations, it becomes possible to improve the efficiency, reduce noise, miniaturize, save space, reduce costs, implement equipment maintenance measures in strong wind and storm areas, and balance power generation in strong wind and storm areas of the vertical wind power generation system. In addition, it can greatly contribute as a countermeasure plan for the equipment maintenance of an offshore windmill as an emergency power source during typhoons and abnormal weather, which is small, low-cost, high-performance, and highly reliable.

[0072] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout all the drawings, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0073] (Embodiment 1) The vertical wind power generation system according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. FIGS. 1 to 8 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 schematically shows a perspective view of the vertical wind power generation system according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional configuration of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional configuration of the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 and the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5 of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional configuration of the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 and the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5 of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional configuration of the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5 of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional configuration of the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5 of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of the angle of attack and the relative wind speed (W) of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the rotation angle (θ) of the straight blade 3 of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the vertical wind power generation system 1 includes a rotating shaft 2, a straight blade 3, an arm 4, an angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism 5, a vertical blade 6, a variable-diameter motor 7, a timing belt 8, a rotation holding part 9, a link part 10, a generator 11, a pole 12, a blade diameter variable mechanism 13, an angle-of-attack adjustment motor 14, a brake 15, an angle-of-attack adjustment gear A 16, an angle-of-attack adjustment gear B 17, a pulley A 18, a pulley B 19, a holding part 20, a rotation holding pin 21, an anemometer 22, a wind vane 23, a generator movable part 24, an angle of attack 25, and a blade diameter 26.

[0075] The vertical blade 6 is fixed to the substantially rotation center part of the generator rotation part 24 of the generator 11 on the rotating shaft 2, and the generator 11 (the fixed part of the generator) is fixed to the pole 12. Further, a brake 15 is attached near the vertical blade 6 and the generator rotation part 24 of the generator 11 or near the rotating shaft 2, and the (mechanical) brake 15 is used during braking. In some cases, the lock function of the generator 11 may be used instead for this brake function. The vertical blade 6 is composed of an arm 4 fixed to the rotating shaft 2 and a plurality of straight blades 3 fixed to the arm 4. At this time, the arm 4 has a blade diameter variable mechanism 13 composed of a variable-diameter motor 7, a link part 10, a pulley A 18, a pulley B 19, and a timing belt 8. By rotating the rotating-side arm 4 via the link part 10 from the pulleys A 18 and B 19 of the output of the variable-diameter motor 7, the blade diameter 26 (D in the figure) of the vertical blade 6 can be made variable. As shown in FIG. 4, the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 may be configured such that the outer peripheral side arm 4 fixed to the link part 10 (or the motor shaft) of the variable-diameter motor 7 fixed to the arm 4 rotates.

[0076] Furthermore, the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism 5 is composed of an angle-of-attack adjustment motor 14, an angle-of-attack adjustment gear A 16, an angle-of-attack adjustment gear B 17 fixed to the straight blade 3, and a rotation holding part 9 for rotatably holding the straight blade 3 on the arm 4. The straight blade 3 is held by the arm 4 in a state where the angle of attack 25 can be adjusted.

[0077] Figs. 5 and 6 are schematic views showing a configuration in which the arm 4 rotatably holds the straight blade 3. At this time, as shown in Fig. 5 or Fig. 6, the straight blade 3 is held in a rotatable state on the arm 4 by a rotation holding portion 9 and a rotation holding pin 21 fixed to the straight blade 3. The rotation center may be outside the straight blade 3 as shown in Fig. 5, or may be inside the straight blade 3 as shown in Fig. 6. When a rotation center is formed inside the straight blade 3 as shown in Fig. 6, a rotation holding portion 9, a rotation holding pin 21, and a part of the arm 4 are formed inside the straight blade 3.

[0078] Fig. 7 is a schematic view showing the relationship between the fluid forces (lift force, drag force) generated on the straight blade 3, each wind speed, and each angle. It is a schematic view showing the relationship among the wind speed (V), blade rotation speed (m / s or rotation speed rpm), relative wind speed (W), angle of attack 25 (α), lift force, drag force, mounting angle, and pitch angle (ψ) in the straight blade 3 held by the arm 4. The relative wind speed (W: m / s) is the synthesis of the wind speed (V: m / s) and the blade rotation speed (m / s), and the angle of attack 25 (α) is the angle of the straight blade 3 (center line) with respect to the relative wind speed (W). The mounting angle is the angle between the arm 4 and the straight blade 3, and the pitch angle (ψ) is the angle between the tangential direction in the rotation direction of the straight blade 3 and the straight blade 3 (center line).

[0079] On the other hand, Fig. 8 is a schematic top view of the vertical blade 6 showing the rotation locus of the vertical blade 6, and shows the relationship among the rotation directions of the vertical blade 6 and the straight blade 3, the vertical blade rotation angle (θ), the length (C) of the straight blade 3, the diameter (D) of the vertical blade 6, the wind speed (V), the pitch angle (ψ), and the mounting angle. Define each wind speed as the light wind range (less than 3 m / s), the normal power generation wind speed (3 m / s or more and less than 12 m / s), the strong wind range (12 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s), and the storm wind range (20 m / s or more). To maximize or optimize the power generation efficiency (Cp) at each wind speed, in the light wind range and the strong wind range, the above angle of attack 25 (α: mounting angle, pitch angle is also acceptable) is calculated considering conditions such as the wind direction detected by the wind vane 23, the wind speed detected by the anemometer 22, the blade rotation speed (m / s: calculated from the rotation speed of the blade diameter 26 and the vertical blade 5), the relative wind speed (m / s) calculated from the wind speed and the blade rotation speed, the vertical wing rotation angle (θ), the blade diameter 26, the characteristics of the wing shape of the vertical wing 3 (such as lift coefficient and drag coefficient), the length (C) of the vertical wing 3, and the number of straight wings 3.

[0080] Also, to calculate the angle of attack 25 (α) that makes the vertical blade diameter 26 (D) variable at each wind speed and maximizes or optimizes the power generation efficiency (Cp), it is necessary to calculate considering conditions such as the wind direction detected by the wind vane 23, the wind speed detected by the anemometer 22, the blade rotation speed (m / s: calculated from the diameter and rotation speed of the vertical blade), the relative wind speed (m / s) calculated from the wind speed and the blade rotation speed, the vertical wing rotation angle (θ), the vertical blade diameter 26, the characteristics of the wing shape of the vertical wing 3 (such as lift coefficient and drag coefficient), the length (C) of the vertical wing 3, and the number of straight wings 3. Note that the setting of each wind speed range shown in Embodiment 1 is an example, and even if the range of the wind speed at each wind speed is changed, there is no problem with the effect of the present invention.

[0081] Note that in this Embodiment 1, the calculation method of the angle of attack 25 (α) at this time is to perform the calculation using the so-called multi-stream double actuator method shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a schematic view seen from above when the multi-stream tube double actuator method is applied to a vertical windmill. It shows a layered flow tube with actuator surfaces virtualized at the upstream and downstream positions where the blade rotation circle intersects each flow tube, and the blade element momentum theory is applied to each flow tube. That is, the rotational torque is obtained for each flow tube from the relationship between the momentum difference of the fluid at the inlet and outlet of each flow tube and the fluid force acting on the wing installed on the actuator surface shown in FIG. 9, and the sum is calculated as the rotational torque of the entire blade.

[0082] When the vertical blade 6 stops, by setting the blade diameter 26(D) from the maximum to an appropriate minimum value and making the blade diameter 26(D) as small as possible, it becomes possible to secure space. In a light wind area, the blade diameter 26(D) is reduced to increase the solidity (the ratio of the sum of the lengths (C) of the vertical blades 3 to the circumference) to make it easier to rotate, or the angle of attack 25(α) is adjusted to set a configuration that mainly rotates with so-called drag. Generally, by increasing the solidity of the blade, the rotational speed at which the maximum efficiency is generated decreases, and at the start of rotation, the blade rotates more easily because there are fewer gaps in the blade. At normal power generation wind speeds, the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 makes the blade diameter 26 as large as possible, and the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5 sets the angle of attack 25(α) to a value at which the power generation efficiency (Cp) is maximized, making it possible to significantly improve the power generation amount. At this time, the angle of attack 25(α) may be configured by setting it to an angle at which the power generation efficiency (Cp) is maximized as much as possible, and it is not necessary to change the angle of attack 25(α) more than necessary (set to the angle that generates the maximum efficiency).

[0083] In a strong wind area, the blade diameter 26 is set in advance by the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 according to the wind speed, and the angle of attack 25(α) is adjusted to a previously set value according to the blade diameter 26. At this time, the blade diameter 26 and the angle of attack 25 are set in advance for each wind speed from the stress received by the mechanical components due to the wind pressure, the performance of the generator 11, and the power generation efficiency (Cp) calculated from the required power generation amount. The blade diameter 26 is adjusted by the blade diameter variable mechanism 13, and the angle of attack 25 is adjusted by the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5. Therefore, in addition to reducing the wind pressure by reducing the blade diameter 26, the wind pressure is reduced and the power generation efficiency (Cp) is adjusted by adjusting the angle of attack 25. If only the blade diameter 26 is reduced and the angle of attack 25 is not optimized, the rotational speed, power generation amount, and wind pressure of the vertical blade 6 will become too large. Therefore, it is necessary to always perform the variable blade diameter 26 and the adjustment of the angle of attack 25 together.

[0084] In the storm area, the blade diameter 26 of the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 is set in advance according to the wind speed, and adjusted to the angle of attack 25 set in advance according to the blade diameter 26. At this time, the blade diameter 26 and the angle of attack 25 are set in advance for each wind speed as values calculated from the stress received by the mechanical components due to the wind pressure, the performance of the generator 11, and the power generation efficiency (Cp) required power generation amount, and the blade diameter 26 is adjusted by the blade diameter variable mechanism 13, and the angle of attack 25 is adjusted by the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5. Therefore, in addition to reducing the wind pressure by reducing the blade diameter 26, the wind pressure is reduced and the power generation efficiency (Cp) is adjusted by adjusting the angle of attack 25. Further, in the storm area, it has a stop mode in which the rotation of the vertical blade 6 is stopped and the vertical blade 6 is protected by braking 15 or rotation locking of the generator 11.

[0085] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are diagrams showing the variable state of the blade diameter 26 of the vertical blade 6 at each wind speed of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The variable blade diameter 26 can be changed in the light wind area and the normal power generation wind speed according to the situation without any problem.

[0086] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an outline of the change in the rotational energy (Kw) of the vertical blade 6 (change in power generation amount or power generation efficiency) by adjusting the angle of attack 25 of the straight blade 3, adjusting the angle of attack 25 of the straight blade 3, and adjusting the blade diameter 26 of the vertical blade 6 in the strong wind area or the storm area of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. By performing the adjustment of the angle of attack 26 and / or the adjustment of the blade diameter 26 in the strong wind area or the storm area, Measure 1 and Measure 2 can suppress the rotational energy (Kw) and significantly reduce the wind pressure applied to the vertical blade 6 and the pole 12, and realize stable power generation in the strong wind area or the storm area and highly reliable equipment maintenance of the vertical wind power generation system 1.

[0087] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overview of the change in rotational energy (Kw) of the vertical blade 6 (change in power generation amount or power generation efficiency) by adjusting the angle of attack 25 of the straight blade 3, adjusting the angle of attack 25 of the straight blade 3, and adjusting the blade diameter 26 of the vertical blade 6 in the strong wind area or the storm area of the vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 1. By performing the adjustment of the angle of attack 25 and / or the adjustment of the blade diameter 26 in the strong wind area or the storm area for Countermeasure 1 and Countermeasure 2, it becomes possible to suppress the rotational energy (Kw), control the rotational energy, and control the rotational speed of the vertical blade 6, enabling highly accurate power generation in the strong wind area and the storm area, preventing the vertical blade 6 from running wild, and significantly reducing the load on the mechanical components of the vertical blade 6 and the generator 11, making it possible to achieve stable and highly accurate power generation in the strong wind area or the storm area and further reliable equipment maintenance of the vertical wind power generation system 1.

[0088] An example of the setting of the blade diameter 26 (D) by the link method (mechanism) having the link portion 10 in the stopped state, the light wind area, the normal wind speed area, the strong wind area, and the storm area is shown in FIG. 14. In FIG. 14, the blade diameter 26 (D) is made small at the stop time to increase the space efficiency or reduce the influence of the wind pressure, the blade diameter 26 (D) is made small at the light wind time to increase the starting performance and the power generation efficiency, the blade diameter 26 (D) is made relatively large at the normal wind speed to increase the power generation efficiency, the blade diameter 26 (D) is made relatively small in the strong wind area to reduce the influence of the wind pressure and adjust the power generation amount (power generation efficiency), and the blade diameter 26 (D) is made even smaller in the storm area to reduce the influence of the wind pressure.

[0089] FIG. 15 shows the set values and examples of the blade rotation angle and the angle of attack of the blade in each wind speed range. To maximize the power generation efficiency, the change in the angle of attack in the light wind area is larger than the change in the angle of attack at the normal power generation wind speed. Also, in the strong wind area, to reduce the power generation efficiency, the change in the angle of attack in the strong wind area is larger than the change in the angle of attack at the normal power generation wind speed.

[0090] In Embodiment 1, the blade diameter 26 (D) in the gentle wind region was made smaller than the blade diameter 26 (D) at the normal power generation wind speed, but there would be no problem even if they were made equal.

[0091] In Embodiment 1, the generator 11 has an outer rotor type configuration, but there would be no problem even if it were a so-called inner rotor type.

[0092] In Embodiment 1, the number of straight blades 3 in the vertical blade 6 was two, but any number two or more would be acceptable.

[0093] In Embodiment 1, a timing belt 8 was used, but there would be no problem even with a belt without unevenness.

[0094] In Embodiment 1, two gears, the angle of attack adjustment gear 1 and the angle of attack adjustment gear 2, were used in the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5, but a belt may be used, or any other rotating mechanism would be acceptable.

[0095] In Embodiment 1, the blade diameter variable mechanism 13 is configured to fold the outer peripheral arm 4 in a link manner via the link portion 10, but a linear actuator may be used to change the radius and diameter.

[0096] In Embodiment 1, the angle of attack adjustment mechanism 5 is composed of an angle of attack adjustment motor 14, an angle of attack adjustment gear A 16, an angle of attack adjustment gear B 17 fixed to the straight blade 3, and a rotation holding portion 9, and the straight blade 3 is configured such that the angle of attack is adjusted on the arm 4. However, the angle of attack adjustment motor 14, the angle of attack adjustment gear A 16, and the angle of attack adjustment gear B 17 fixed to the straight blade 3 may be replaced with a linear actuator, and the angle of attack may be adjusted by the linear actuator and the rotation holding portion 9.

[0097] In Embodiment 1, the adjustment value for the angle of attack 25 in each wind speed region is configured to be calculated in advance, but it may also be configured to learn and predict from the change in the adjustment amount of the angle of attack 25, the change in the rotation speed of the vertical blade 6, the change in rotational energy, and the change in power generation amount.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the wind speed and wind direction are respectively detected by the anemometer 22 and the wind vane 23. However, the anemometer 22 and / or the wind vane 23 may be omitted, and the wind direction and wind speed may be learned and predicted from the adjustment amount of the angle of attack 25, the change in the rotation speed of the vertical blade 6, the change in the rotational energy, and the change in the power generation amount.

[0099] (Embodiment 2) The vertical wind power generation system 1 according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 17. FIGS. 16 to 17 are diagrams showing the vertical wind power generation system 1 attached to the main pole as an emergency power source during a storm of a large windmill. In FIG. 16, it is composed of a large windmill, a main pole, large windmill blades, a vertical wind power generation system 1, a main pole fixing part 27, and a windmill connection part 28. When the rotation of the large windmill blades of the large windmill stops and power generation is not performed during a storm or the like, the vertical wind power generation system 1 is used as an emergency power source for performing furling control (rotation control of the large windmill blade surface) to reduce the wind pressure received by the large windmill blades. A plurality of vertical wind power generation systems 1 are attached to the main pole by the main pole fixing part 25 and the windmill fixing part 25, and the angle control of the angle of attack 25 and / or the length control of the blade diameter 26 (D) will be performed.

[0100] With this configuration, stable furling control can be performed even during a long-term storm, and the vertical wind power generation system 1 can be supported by the windmill connection part 28 that significantly miniaturizes and shortens the pole 12, making it possible to achieve a significant cost reduction and to realize the equipment maintenance and cost reduction of the large windmill and the vertical wind power generation system 1.

[0101] FIG. 17 shows a configuration in which the fixed part of the generator 11 is attached to the main pole, and the straight blades 3 and the arm 4 are attached to the generator rotating part 24 of the generator 11, and the angle control of the angle of attack 25 and / or the length control of the blade diameter 26 (D) are performed. With this configuration, the vertical wind power generation system 1 installed as an emergency power source can be simplified and cost-reduced, and the reliability of equipment maintenance in strong wind areas and storm areas can be further improved. In addition, in the second embodiment, a vertical windmill is attached, but a horizontal windmill may be attached and wind direction tracking may be performed in synchronization with the furling control of a large windmill.

[0102] From the above description, many improvements and other embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the above description should be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode of carrying out the present invention. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the details of its structure and / or function can be substantially changed.

Industrial Applicability

[0103] The present invention relates to a vertical wind power generation system that uses an angle of attack adjustment mechanism and a variable blade diameter mechanism to greatly improve power generation efficiency and enhance control performance, power generation performance, and equipment maintenance performance in strong wind areas and storm areas. It is an effective technology for a decarbonized society, excellent in power generation performance, reliability, quietness, economy, and equipment maintainability, and can be used as an emergency power source for offshore and onshore winds, a small power supply device for smart cities and households, and further as a wind speed sensor in urban spaces.

Explanation of Signs

[0104] 1 Vertical wind power generation system 2 Rotating shaft 3 Straight blade 4 Arm 5 Angle of attack adjustment mechanism 6 Vertical blade 7 Diameter variable motor 8 Timing belt 9 Rotation holding part 10 Link part 11 Generator 12 Pole 13 Blade diameter variable mechanism 14 Angle of attack adjustment motor 15 Brake 16 Angle of attack adjustment gear 1 17 Angle of attack adjustment gear 2 18 Pulley 1 19 Pulley 2 20 Holding part 21 Rotating holding pin 22 Anemometer 23 Wind vane 24 Generator rotating part 25 Angle of attack (α) 26 Blade diameter (D) 27 Main pole fixing part 28 Windmill connection part

Claims

1. A vertical wind power generation system having a vertical blade composed of a rotating shaft, a plurality of straight blades arranged in parallel with the rotating shaft, an arm for holding the straight blades on the rotating shaft, and an angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism for making the attachment angle of the straight blades to the arm variable. In each wind speed range of a light wind range, a normal power generation wind speed, a strong wind range, and a storm range, the angle of attack of the straight blades with respect to the relative wind speed or the attachment angle to the arm is adjusted by the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism according to the wind speed, wind direction, rotation angle of the vertical blade, rotation speed of the vertical blade, diameter of the vertical blade, cross-sectional shape of the straight blade, chord length of the straight blade, and number of the straight blades. At the same time, the shape of the arm is deformed by a blade diameter variable mechanism that slides or rotates a part of the arm according to the wind speed, so that the diameter of the vertical blade is variable.

2. The vertical wind power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is composed of a generator and the vertical blade, and the rotating shaft is coupled to a substantially rotation center portion of the generator.

3. The vertical wind power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the angle-of-attack adjustment mechanism uses a motor, a gear and / or a belt, or a linear actuator as a drive source.

4. The rotation speed of the vertical blade is detected by a rotation sensor configured around the rotating shaft or the generator, the wind speed and / or the wind direction are detected, and the set value of the angle adjustment is estimated from a change in the rotation torque or output of the vertical blade. The vertical wind power generation system according to claim 2.

5. The vertical wind power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the set value of the angle adjustment refers to a numerical value calculated in advance based on an output curve for each wind speed set in advance.

6. The vertical wind power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the set value of the angle adjustment is estimated from a change in the rotation torque or output of the vertical blade.

7. The vertical wind power generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that the diameter of the vertical blade corresponding to each wind speed in the light wind range, the normal power generation wind speed, the strong wind range, and the storm range refers to a numerical value calculated in advance.

8. The vertical-axis wind power generation system according to claim 7, characterized in that the angle adjustment and the diameter of the vertical blade refer to numerical values calculated in advance based on an output curve for each preset wind speed.

9. In the angle adjustment and the diameter of the vertical blade corresponding to each wind speed range of a light wind range, a normal power generation wind speed, a strong wind range, and a storm range, the diameter of the vertical blade refers to a numerically calculated value, and the set value of the angle adjustment is estimated from the change in the rotational torque or output of the vertical blade. The vertical-axis wind power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. In a state where the wind has stopped, in each wind speed range of a light wind range, a normal power generation wind speed, a strong wind range, and a storm range, the diameter of the vertical blade is minimized and the angle adjustment is performed in a preset wind speed range, and the vertical-axis wind power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it has a stop mode in which the rotation of the vertical blade is stopped.

11. The vertical-axis wind power generation system according to claim 10, characterized in that the diameter of the vertical blade is maximized at the normal power generation wind speed, the diameter of the vertical blade is made smaller than the set value at the normal power generation wind speed in the light wind range and the strong wind range, and the diameter of the vertical blade is made a set value even smaller than that in the strong wind range in the storm range and the stop mode.

12. The vertical-axis wind power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the light wind range is a wind speed of less than 3 m / s, the normal power generation wind speed is a wind speed of 3 m / s or more and less than 12 m / s, the strong wind range is a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, and the storm range is a wind speed range of 20 m / s or more.

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