Urban bladeless wind turbine

Abstract

A bladeless wind turbine device comprising a plurality of impellers, including at least two round-shaped impellers with different radii. A central shaft is centrally connected to the plurality of impellers, allowing for rotation around the shaft's central axis. Additionally, the device includes a tower column connected to the central shaft and one or more generators for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. This bladeless wind turbine design enhances energy efficiency and is ideally suited for the effective capture and conversion of wind energy, minimizing mechanical complexity and optimizing performance in variable wind conditions.

Description

[0001] Urban Bladeless Wind Turbine

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention generally relates to renewable energy technologies, specifically focusing on wind energy systems. More specifically, the present invention pertains to bladeless wind turbine technology, which aims to generate electricity through wind power without using traditional rotating blades.

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form, that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this summary intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter’s scope.

[0006] The present invention features a bladeless wind turbine comprising a pair of impellers, a central rotating shaft, and a robust tower column. The impellers are disc-like structures mounted in a parallel configuration, featuring strategically placed openings designed to optimize wind capture. These openings may vary in shape, with embodiments showing trapezoidal, elongated diamond, or irregular polygonal configurations that enhance aerodynamic properties and ensure efficient energy conversion.

[0007] The central rotating shaft, housed within the cylindrical tower column, transmits rotational energy from the impellers to an induction generator located at the base. The tower column, constructed from durable materials, provides necessary height and stability, allowing the device to access stronger winds. A robust mounting assembly secures the impellers at the top of the tower, ensuring smooth and balanced rotation.

[0008] The invention device's design may in one embodiment incorporate a two-tier tower column with inner and outer casements, providing a sealed structure that supports the main drive shaft. The integration of a gear reduction system further enhances energy efficiency by moderating rotational speed to match generator requirements. A chain drive mechanism ensures effective mechanical energy transfer, while underground placement of the generator casing provides stability and protection.

[0009] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In light of the increasing demand for renewable energy solutions, there is a growing interest in the development and application of bladeless wind turbine technology.

[0011] Conventional wind turbines, characterized by their varying sizes, rely heavily on blade length to determine their electricity generation capacity. Large-scale turbines are typically installed in groups, known as wind power plants or wind farms, to feed power into electricity grids.

[0012] Traditionally, multi-blade wind turbine configurations have been engineered to mitigate the limitations of fossil fuel-based non-renewable energy systems. However, these systems are not without their drawbacks. They incorporate complex mechanical structures, including rigidly moving blades, rotary bearings, and transmission gearboxes, which can significantly increase both manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0013] Bladeless wind turbines present a compelling alternative by potentially reducing mechanical complexity and associated costs.

[0014] They offer advantages such as lower maintenance requirements and reduced strain during operation. Despite these benefits, current bladeless designs face challenges, including lower efficiency in energy generation compared to traditional turbines.

[0015] The present invention is intended to solve the problems associated with conventional systems and devices and provide improvements on these systems and devices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a side view of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a top view of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a top view showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention with impellers with pointed edges.

[0020] FIG. 5 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing a gear box and generators.

[0021] FIG. 6 is an illustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing the inner and outer tower column with chain drive.

[0022] DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION

[0023] All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0024] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the abovedisclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, while embodiments are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure, and are made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim limitation found herein and / or issuing here from that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0025] Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

[0026] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which an ordinary artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein — as understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term — differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.

[0027] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.”

[0028] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims found herein and / or issuing here from. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subjected matter disclosed under the header. The present invention relates to a bladeless wind turbine device designed to harness wind energy through a novel configuration of impellers and a tower column. The present invention is a wind powered electricity generator, and it includes a cone type aerodynamic.

[0029] The cone structure of the present invention provides two working wind processors that each provide 100%, equating to 200%, producing a massive amount of energy in an extraordinarily compact configuration.

[0030] This construction does not require a massive monetary investment. Furthermore, it does not require minimal greenhouse construction and no concrete. The present invention may use existing grids and is EPS / OHSA friendly.

[0031] The present invention may provide 60 to 150 units per acre x 1000 acres = 60,000 to 150,000 units. Each unit self-governs by turning into and away from the wind in service production from 10 mph to 100 mph winds.

[0032] In preferred embodiment, the cone of the present invention will always turn in only one direction, even if the wind is blowing directly from either side of the present invention.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 1- 6, the present invention provides a device 100 comprising a plurality of impellers 10, a central rotating shaft 17 connecting the impellers 10, a tower column 20 attached to the plurality of impellers 10 via the central rotating shaft 17. The central rotating shaft 17, operatively coupled to the impellers 10, is configured to engage with the tower column 20 or, alternatively, with a main drive shaft 25. This connection is facilitated via a gearbox 50 or a similar gear mechanism, which functions to translate the rotational motion of the central rotating shaft 17 into the rotational movement of the main drive shaft 25, thereby driving the generator 40.

[0034] The device 100 may be integrated with generators 40 to convert the kinetic energy from wind into electrical energy.

[0035] Impellers 10

[0036] In preferred embodiment, the device (wind turbine) 100 of the present invention features two impellers 10, each characterized by a circular, disc-like structure as shown in FIGS.1 -2. These impellers 10 are mounted in a parallel configuration, with a slight gap between them to facilitate the passage of wind. The impellers 10 are designed with strategically placed openings 15 or slots which can be in any suitable shape, which are oriented to capture and direct the wind flow effectively. In some embodiments, the slots 15 are angled to optimize the aerodynamic properties, ensuring maximum wind capture and efficient energy transfer.

[0037] In some embodiments, the openings 15 may be shaped like elongated, irregular polygons. Specifically, in some other embodiments, they may appear to be trapezoidal with one side being significantly longer than the other, creating a slanted, asymmetrical appearance. These openings 15 can be strategically placed on the impellers 10 to capture and direct the wind flow effectively, optimizing the aerodynamic properties of the wind turbine. The unique shape of these openings 15 may contribute to the efficient conversion of wind energy into rotational motion.

[0038] The impellers 10 may feature multiple (three or more) vent openings 15 designed to direct airflow to the rear of the cones, encompassing both the larger and smaller impellers 10. This setup can be engineered to minimize vacuum effects and potential wind damage. Furthermore, the impellers 10 on the exterior portion may play a crucial role in driving (pushing) the entire device assembly 100.

[0039] In one embodiment, the impellers 10 may include uniform thickness and tapered edges.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the impeller 10 of the bladeless wind turbine device can be designed with a distinctive, elongated diamond shape when viewed from the top as shown in FIG 4. This configuration features two symmetrical, pointed ends that taper towards the center, creating a streamlined profile. The impeller 10 may include a central circular hub, which serves as the mounting point for the rotating shaft 17. The elongated diamond shape can be defined by four linear edges, with the longer edges converging at acute angles to form the pointed tips. This design is intended to enhance aerodynamic efficiency by reducing drag and optimizing the capture of wind energy. The symmetrical nature of the diamond shape may ensure balanced rotational motion, contributing to the overall stability and performance of the wind turbine device. In one embodiment, the impellers 10 are connected to a central rotating shaft 17, which is housed within the tower column 20. This shaft 17transmits the rotational energy generated by the impellers 10 to the generator 40 located at the base of the tower column 20.

[0041] The generator 40 may be any type of generator known in the art. It may be operatively connected to a heat sink and / or slip clutches to enhance performance and efficiency within the system.

[0042] Tower column 20

[0043] The tower column 20 serves as the main support structure for the wind turbine device. It is an elongated, cylindrical component that provides stability and height to the turbine, allowing it to access higher wind speeds. The tower column 20 is constructed from durable materials capable of withstanding environmental stresses and mechanical loads. At the top of the tower column 20, a mounting assembly secures the impellers 10 in place, ensuring they remain aligned and rotate smoothly. The interior of the tower column 20 houses the central rotating shaft 17, which extends from the impellers 10 down to the generator by connecting to a main shaft 25. Additionally, the tower column 20 may include one or more access panels for maintenance and inspection purposes.

[0044] The integration of the impellers 10 and the tower column 20 is achieved through a robust mounting assembly that ensures the structural integrity of the wind turbine device 100. In preferred embodiment, the impellers 10 are positioned at the top of the tower column 20, where they are exposed to the wind. As the wind flows through the slots 15 in the impellers 10, it induces rotational motion, which is transferred to the central rotating shaft 17. The shaft 17, as shown in FIG. 5, which can be connected to a main shaft 25 via a gear box 50, in turn, drives the generator 40 located at the base of the tower column 20, converting the mechanical energy into electrical energy. The bladeless design of the wind turbine 100 reduces noise and minimizes the risk to wildlife, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wind turbines.

[0045] The tower column 20 of the present invention may include an inner 20b and outer tower column 20a, as shown in FIG. 6. The inner tower column 20b and outer tower column 20a can be sealed by steel plates at the top. A three layer “sandwich” (round) of stainless steel / polyethylene / stainless steel provides stable frictionless weight-bearing. A common shared “driveshaft hole” can be centered with a short steel pipe.

[0046] In one embodiment, the present invention includes the following components:

[0047] 1. Two impellers: one smaller (fore) and one larger (aft).

[0048] 2. Two steel truck tire rims.

[0049] 3. One truck rear axle / differential.

[0050] 4. One truck drive shaft with U-joints.

[0051] 5. One induction gearbox with a 4: 1 ratio.

[0052] 6. One generator.

[0053] 7. One transformer / box with a fuse breaker.

[0054] 8. One vertical inner tower casement for in-ground placement.

[0055] 9. One outer tower casement.

[0056] 10. One round mounting plate, which separates the inner column and offers a secure platform for the 3-row gear reduction drive motor, the induction gearbox, and the generator top mount.

[0057] 11. One 3-row roller chain.

[0058] 12. Two 3-row idler sprockets to center the gap between the columns.

[0059] The present invention may include a main (drive) shaft and one or more generators connected as follows.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 5-6, the main shaft can be connected to a generator (Generator 25 kW-75kW) which is housed within a casing. The main shaft can be configured to be the central rotating component that transmits mechanical energy from the impellers 10 to the generator.

[0061] In some embodiments, the casing can be placed 4-5 feet deep in the ground 80 ensuring stability and protection as shown in FIG. 6. This underground placement may help in reducing noise and protecting the generator from external damage.

[0062] In some embodiments, the present invention may include a gear compressor casing (which can be the inner tower column 20a), which is turned by a chain drive 60 with a gear reduction motor and a rail roller chain. The chain drive 60 may ensure efficient transfer of mechanical energy, reducing the speed of rotation to match the generator's requirements.

[0063] In one embodiment, the gear compressor casing can be attached to the inside of the outer tower column 20b, indicating a secure attachment mechanism.

[0064] In one embodiment, the wind turbine device 100 of the present invention can be operated by capturing wind energy through its impellers 10 connected to the main shaft 25.

[0065] As the wind turns the impellers 10, the main shaft 25 rotates, transmitting mechanical energy to the gear reduction motor and chain drive system.

[0066] The gear reduction motor may adjust the rotational speed, ensuring it is suitable for the generator 40. The chain drive system then transfers the mechanical energy to the generator 40, which converts it into electrical energy. The generator 40, housed within a protective casing (tower column 20), produces electricity that can be used for various applications.

[0067] In some other embodiments, the main shaft 25 can be supported by sealed bearings, which can be welded at the ends of H-beams (or L beams) which can be placed on top of the tower column 20. The bearings may ensure smooth rotation of the shaft and reduce friction. The bearing supports may be extended, and additional sealed bearings can be installed for enhanced stability. In some other embodiments, such bearing support structure may include a brake drum which may play a role in the mechanical operation of the device.

[0068] Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A device comprising: a plurality of impellers, a central shaft connected to the plurality of impellers, and a tower column having a gear box, attached to the central shaft.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device includes at least two roundshaped impellers of different radii.

3. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein impellers include at least three openings.

4. The device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the gear box includes a main shaft connected to a generator.

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central shaft is centrally connected to the plurality of impellers, allowing the impellers to rotate around the central axis of the shaft.

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tower column is connected to one or more generators.

7. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein impellers include pointed ends that taper towards the center, creating a streamlined profile.

8. A device comprising: a plurality of impellers having at least two round-shaped impellers, a central shaft connected to the plurality of impellers, and a tower column having a gear box, attached to the central shaft, wherein the tower column includes an outer tower column and inner tower column rotatably connected together with a chain drive.

9. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the plurality of impellers includes different radii.

10. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein impellers include at least three openings.11 . The device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the openings include trapezoidal shapes.

12. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the central shaft is centrally connected to the plurality of impellers, allowing the impellers to rotate around the central axis of the shaft.

13. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the tower column is connected to one or more generators.

14. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein impellers include pointed ends that taper towards the center, creating a streamlined profile.

15. A device comprising: a plurality of impellers having at least two round-shaped impellers of different radii, a central shaft connected to the plurality of impellers, and a tower column having a gear box, attached to the central shaft.

16. The device as claimed in claim 15, wherein impellers include at least three openings.

17. The device as claimed in claim 16, wherein the gear box includes a main shaft connected to a generator.

18. The device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the central shaft is centrally connected to the plurality of impellers, allowing the impellers to rotate around the central axis of the shaft.

19. The device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the tower column is connected to one or more generators.

20. The device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the impellers are plates of uniform thickness.

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