Horizontal-axis wind turbine for generating power

Abstract

The present description relates to a horizontal-axis wind turbine for generating power, comprising: a support tower (1), a chassis (4), base bearings (3), a power generator (5), a front rotor (11) and a rear rotor (12), and a nacelle (13) including a horizontal rotation shaft (10), an orientation mechanism (33) and a gearbox. Said wind turbine is characterized in that both rotors are attached to the horizontal rotation shaft, with the front rotor (11) mounted on the front part of the nacelle (13) and the rear rotor (12) on the rear part. The rotors comprise blades (7, 8), the diameter of the front rotor blades being smaller than that of the rear rotor blades, thereby increasing the efficiency of the turbine and ensuring smooth and balanced operation, even under variable wind conditions.

Description

DESCRIPTION Horizontal axis wind turbine for power generation. TECHNICAL DOMAIN

[0001] This description pertains to the technical field of horizontal-axis wind turbines in the renewable energy sector, specifically those designed to maximize the use of wind kinetic energy, including turbulent or variable winds. BACKGROUND

[0002] Given the growing need for sustainable and efficient energy solutions, many wind turbine models, particularly micro, small and medium-scale ones, face significant challenges in optimizing energy use, which often compromises the attractiveness of the investment for consumers.

[0003] Wind turbines play a crucial role in decentralizing energy production, enabling generation close to points of consumption, especially in remote areas or those with limited infrastructure. Their ability to operate efficiently even in variable wind conditions makes these turbines a viable solution for diversifying renewable energy sources. This strengthens the energy autonomy of communities, reduces dependence on centralized grids, and promotes a more sustainable transition to distributed energy systems.

[0004] Currently, there is a wide variety of wind turbine models available on the market, among which horizontal axis turbines stand out, widely used due to their high efficiency in contexts with prevailing and stable winds, and vertical axis turbines, which, although generally less efficient, offer advantages in urban environments or those subject to turbulent winds, due to their lower sensitivity to wind direction. There are also hybrid models, which seek to combine characteristics of both systems, as well as micro, small and medium-scale solutions designed for applications. Decentralized areas, such as rural areas, isolated buildings, or infrastructure with limited access to the electrical grid. Each of these models presents different levels of efficiency, installation complexity, and associated costs, which directly influences its viability depending on the context of use.

[0005] Despite the growing supply of solutions on the market and technological advances in the sector, many exhibit low efficiency in converting wind kinetic energy into electrical energy. This factor, combined with wind variability in certain regions and the initial acquisition and installation costs, discourages consumers from investing in this equipment, especially at the micro, small, and medium scales.

[0006] Furthermore, most conventional turbines face difficulties operating efficiently in turbulent wind conditions or in low-speed wind scenarios, which limits their energy generation potential in various practical situations. Consequently, there is a growing need for more robust wind turbines capable of operating efficiently in different atmospheric conditions, ensuring greater stability, productivity, and return on investment for consumers.

[0007] WO9713979A1 describes a horizontal-axis wind turbine comprising a rotor support structure, a multi-bladed rotor, an electricity-generating stator, and a rotating trough. The support structure is constructed of a plurality of triangular subunits. The rotor has a plurality of blades projecting from it. The blades have adjustable pitch and are surrounded by a rim fitted with a plurality of magnets. The wind induces rotation of the rim. The stator is essentially stationary and is mounted on the structure, opposite the rim. As the magnets of the rotating wheel pass alongside the stator, electricity is generated. The stator uses the pulling force of the magnets to automatically adjust itself to align with the rotating rim. The support structure is mounted on the rotating trough, allowing continuous adjustment of its orientation to maximize wind-induced rotation in the rotor.

[0008] Document US6945747B1 describes a twin-rotor wind turbine, according to the present invention, comprising a rotating drive shaft, a first rotor assembly connected to that shaft, a second independently rotating rotor assembly coupled to the shaft at the rear of the first assembly, a first-stage generator coupled to the drive shaft, a second-stage generator operatively connected to the second rotor assembly, a housing where the generators are located, a rotating base, and a tail. In operation, the rotating base allows the tail to position the rotors optimally for wind capture. The wind rotates the first rotor assembly, which causes the drive shaft to rotate and consequently drives the first-stage generator. The wind that passes through and is deflected by the first rotor assembly drives the second rotor assembly, which rotates independently of the first, operating the second-stage generator.The two generators can be any combination of alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) electric generators, pumps, or compressors.

[0009] Document WO2017 / 084674A1 describes a wind turbine system comprising a plurality of wind turbine modules mounted on a support structure, wherein each of the wind turbine modules includes a rotor with one or more variable-pitch blades, each defining a respective pitch angle and being controlled by a pitch control system. The control system is operable to control the pitch angles of the blades of said plurality of wind turbine modules. The control system is configured to identify the presence of a predetermined stopping condition and, depending on that condition, is operable to adjust the pitch angles of the respective blades to predetermined stopping positions that reduce the oscillation of the support structure. The present invention also encompasses a method for controlling a wind turbine system, a controller for implementing that method, and a corresponding computer program product.

[0010] In the context of this description, it is also important to differentiate between two different types of wind turbine systems: upwind systems, where the rotor is oriented in the direction of the incident wind, and is located... Positioned upstream of the tower, meaning the wind hits the rotor before passing over the tower, and "against the wind," from the English "downwind," where the rotor is oriented in the opposite direction to the incident wind, being downstream of the tower, which means that the wind hits the tower before reaching the rotor.

[0011] In "downwind" models, the main disadvantage lies in the instability caused by the turbine rotor's yaw in turbulent winds, since it operates with the wind direction. In "upwind" models, the disadvantage lies in the fact that the rotor operates behind the generator and tower, resulting in potential efficiency losses.

[0012] These facts are described in order to illustrate the technical problem solved by the achievements of this document. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0013] It is an objective of the present inventions to provide a solution for a wind turbine that addresses the significant challenges in its optimization and energy utilization.

[0014] It is also an objective of the present inventions to provide a solution for a wind turbine that is operationally safe and viable for use in any location with wind, from light breezes to more extreme turbulence conditions.

[0015] It is also an objective of the present inventions to provide a horizontal axis wind turbine, designed to make better use of the kinetic energy of the wind, whether turbulent or not, with excellent performance in variable winds.

[0016] The solution presented in this description is based on the fact that the wind turbine combines the advantages of "upwind" systems, where the rotor is oriented in the direction of the incident wind and is positioned upstream of the tower, meaning the wind hits the rotor before passing through the tower, and "downwind" systems, where the rotor is oriented in the opposite direction to the incident wind and is located downstream of the tower, meaning the wind hits the tower. before reaching the rotor. The advantages of the "downwind" model include the ability to take advantage of most of the incident wind without suffering any friction before reaching the rotor. The unused airflow is redirected to the tips of the second rotor blades, increasing the pressure at the tips, which is the area of ​​greatest leverage for the blades. This also contributes to the turbine's stability, minimizing friction losses in the generator, tower, and other system components. On the other hand, the advantages of the "upwind" model include aiding in the self-steering of the assembly, improving stability in the balancing of the blades and rotors, which reduces stresses at the base of the tower and minimizes vibrations in the turbine.

[0017] Furthermore, the rear rotor, having a larger diameter than the front rotor, receives a more concentrated airflow at the tips of the blades, in addition to utilizing the air that the first rotor did not use.

[0018] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a horizontal axis wind turbine for generating wind energy, the turbine comprising: a support and lifting tower (1); a chassis (4); base bearings (3); a power generator (5); a nacelle (13), the nacelle including a generator (5), a horizontal axis of rotation (10), a guiding mechanism (33), a gearbox; the turbine further including a front rotor (11); and a rear rotor (12); characterized by the fixing of the two rotors on the horizontal axis of rotation so as to connect the rotors (11, 12) on said horizontal axis of rotation; wherein the front rotor (11) is mounted on the front part of the nacelle (13); and the rear rotor (12) is mounted on the rear part of the nacelle (13); and wherein the rotors comprise blades (7, 8);and in which the front rotor has a smaller blade diameter compared to the rear rotor in order to increase turbine efficiency while ensuring smooth and balanced operation, even under varying wind conditions.

[0019] In one embodiment, the horizontal axis wind turbine for wind power generation comprises: a support and lifting tower (1); a chassis (4); a power generator (5); a nacelle (13), the nacelle including a generator (5), a horizontal axis of rotation (10), a guiding mechanism (33), a gearbox; the turbine further including a front rotor (11); and a rear rotor (12); characterized by the fixing of the two rotors on the horizontal axis of rotation in such a way as to connect the rotors (11, 12) on said horizontal axis of rotation; wherein the front rotor (11) is mounted on the front part of the nacelle (13); and the rear rotor (12) is mounted on the rear part of the nacelle (13); and wherein the rotors comprise blades (7, 8); and wherein the front rotor comprises a smaller blade diameter compared to the rear rotor.

[0020] In one embodiment, the turbine may include variation in the number of blades and their length.

[0021] In one embodiment, each of the two rotors comprises a gearbox.

[0022] In one embodiment, the wind turbine comprises an active guidance system to automatically adjust the direction of the turbine blades depending on wind conditions.

[0023] In one embodiment, the wind turbine comprises a passive guidance system, to passively adjust the direction of the turbine blades using natural wind forces.

[0024] In one embodiment, the wind turbine comprises a combined guidance system, comprising an active guidance system and a passive guidance system to maximize the performance of said turbine.

[0025] In one embodiment, the wind turbine includes a system for controlling the pitch of the blades.

[0026] In one embodiment, the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) comprises a rod (14) fixed to the turbine chassis; at least one tail (15); wherein the rod supports the tail; and wherein each tail comprises a set of blades (20, 22) that drive the gradual movement of the tails from the vertical to the horizontal position to adjust the rotors to the best operating angle. The set of blades (20, 22, 30 and 32) at the rear rotate in excessively strong winds, rotating the tails from the vertical to the horizontal position. This movement relieves wind pressure on the rotor blades, protecting the equipment and ensuring the continuity of power generation even during adverse conditions.

[0027] In one embodiment, the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) of the wind turbine comprises a tail (15) positioned on top of the rear rotor (12).

[0028] In one embodiment, the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) of the wind turbine comprises two tails (15, 16) positioned laterally to the rear rotor (12).

[0029] In one embodiment, the wind turbine comprises a front rotor rotation control mechanism (11).

[0030] In one embodiment, the rotation control mechanism of the front rotor (11) of the wind turbine is inserted into the base of the rotor hub itself (11).

[0031] In one embodiment, the wind turbine nacelle (13) is mounted on the support and lifting tower (1).

[0032] In one embodiment, the rear rotor (12) of the wind turbine comprises a greater number of blades than the front rotor (11).

[0033] In one embodiment, the front rotor (11) and the rear rotor (12) of the wind turbine are configured to rotate in opposite directions.

[0034] In one embodiment, the ratio between the diameter of the blades (7) of the front rotor (11) and the diameter of the blades (8) of the rear rotor (12) of the wind turbine is defined by a range between 10% and 90%, preferably 10% to 50%, more preferably 10% to 30%.

[0035] In one embodiment, the two tails (15,16) of the wind turbine are replaced by equivalent aerodynamic surfaces configured to orient the nacelle (13).

[0036] Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a hybrid aerodynamic and electrical guidance system for the rotors (11,12).

[0037] The front rotor speed control mechanism (11) adjusts the angle of the front rotor blades (7) in order to reduce their rotational speed, relieving the load transmitted to the power generator (5) and preventing desynchronization between the front (11) and rear (12) rotors. In this way, the mechanism contributes to the Stabilization of the turbine assembly, ensuring safe and continuous operation even under adverse wind conditions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0038] For easier understanding, the figures are attached, which represent preferred embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this description.

[0039] Figure 1: Schematic and simplified perspective representation of an embodiment of the wind turbine according to the invention.

[0040] Figure 2: Schematic representation of a simplified (left side) view of the turbine in Fig. 1.

[0041] Figure 3: Schematic representation of a simplified (top) view of the turbine orientation mechanism included in the turbine nacelle, illustrated in Fig. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present technology will now be described in greater detail, with reference to the figures, which illustrate examples of its implementation.

[0043] This application describes a horizontal-axis wind turbine for wind power generation, wherein the turbine comprises: a support and lifting tower. (I); a chassis (4); base bearings (3); a power generator (5); a front rotor (11); a rear rotor (12); a nacelle (13), wherein the nacelle comprises a generator (5), a horizontal rotation axis (10), an aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) and a gearbox; wherein the front rotor (II) and the rear rotor (12) are fixed to the horizontal axis of rotation (10) so as to connect the rotors (11, 12) to said horizontal axis of rotation (10); wherein the front rotor (11) is mounted on a front part of the nacelle (13); and the rear rotor (12) is mounted on a rear part of the nacelle (13); and wherein the rotors (11, 12) comprise blades (7, 8); and wherein the front rotor (11) comprises a smaller blade diameter (7) compared to the blade diameter (8) of the rear rotor (12) of in order to increase the efficiency of the wind turbine while ensuring smooth and balanced operation, even under varying wind conditions.

[0044] Thus, according to a first embodiment, the horizontal axis wind turbine comprises two coaxial rotors (11,12) mounted on the same horizontal axis of rotation (10), one being disposed at the front of the nacelle (13) and the other at the rear. The front rotor (11) has smaller diameter blades relative to the rear rotor (12). This configuration provides balanced and smooth operation, allowing for optimized wind energy capture under different conditions, since the front rotor (11) reduces initial turbulence and the larger diameter rear rotor (12) efficiently utilizes the remaining flow.

[0045] In one embodiment, each of the rotors (11,12) can include its own gearbox. This configuration allows the speed and torque generated by each rotor to be adapted independently to the generator or energy conversion system. In this way, the turbine can maintain stable and optimized performance even under significant variations in wind intensity and direction.

[0046] In one embodiment, the turbine may include an active blade guidance system. This system uses actuators, sensors, and electronic controllers to adjust the blade angle in real time according to wind conditions. Active guidance maximizes energy production and minimizes structural stress, ensuring greater durability and reliability of the assembly.

[0047] In one embodiment, the turbine may include a passive blade direction guidance system (7,8). In this case, the blades (7,8) adjust automatically according to the aerodynamic forces to which they are subjected, without the need for external electronic components or actuators. This passive solution offers the advantage of simple construction, low cost and greater robustness in aggressive environments.

[0048] In one embodiment, the turbine may comprise a combined guidance system, which integrates active and passive elements for controlling blade direction (7,8). The hybrid system allows basic automatic regulation through passive response, while fine adjustments are made by the active system. resulting in an efficient compromise between mechanical simplicity and precision of control.

[0049] In one embodiment, the turbine may include a blade pitch control system. This system allows the blade angle of attack to be modified according to wind speed and energy production requirements, significantly increasing conversion efficiency and preventing overloads during strong wind gusts.

[0050] In one embodiment, the turbine may comprise the turbine's aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) which includes a rod (14) fixed to the chassis (4) and at least one tail (15). Each tail (15) may integrate a set of blades (20, 22, 30, 32) configured to gradually move from a vertical to a horizontal position in response to the wind. This solution makes it possible to automatically adjust the position of the nacelle (13) and, consequently, of the rotors (11, 12), ensuring that they remain oriented to the optimum operating angle.

[0051] In one embodiment, the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) of the wind turbine comprises a tail (15) positioned on top of the rear rotor (12), for better results.

[0052] In one embodiment, the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) of the wind turbine comprises two tails (15, 16) positioned laterally to the rear rotor (12), for better results.

[0053] In one embodiment, the turbine may include a rotation control mechanism specifically applied to the front rotor. This mechanism makes it possible to limit or adjust the speed of the front rotor according to wind conditions, protecting the structure against overloads and optimizing energy efficiency in conjunction with the rear rotor.

[0054] In one embodiment, the front rotor speed control mechanism (11) can be integrated directly into the base of the rotor hub itself. This integration provides a compact solution, reducing the number of external components and facilitating maintenance, while ensuring a more direct and efficient response in speed control.

[0055] In one embodiment, the rear rotor (12) may comprise a greater number of blades than the front rotor (11). This configuration allows for optimizing the capture of energy from the remaining airflow after passing through the front rotor, increasing the overall efficiency of the turbine. The greater number of blades on the rear rotor (12) compensates for the reduction in available kinetic energy, ensuring a more uniform and stable extraction of energy.

[0056] In one embodiment, the front rotor (11) and the rear rotor (12) can be configured to rotate in opposite directions, i.e. counter-rotation. This solution reduces the residual angular momentum in the outflow, resulting in more efficient use of wind energy and a reduction in turbulence. Counter-rotation also contributes to better dynamic balance of the turbine.

[0057] In one embodiment, the ratio between the diameter of the front rotor blades (11) and the diameter of the rear rotor blades (12) can be defined by a range between 10% and 90%, preferably between 10% and 50%, and most preferably between 10% and 30%. These ranges have been identified as particularly advantageous for ensuring a compromise between reducing aerodynamic interference between the two rotors (11, 12) and maximizing energy conversion efficiency.

[0058] In one embodiment, the side tails can be replaced by equivalent aerodynamic surfaces, similarly configured to orient the nacelle (13). These alternative surfaces can take different forms, such as fins or adjustable panels, providing the same automatic turbine alignment function in relation to the wind direction, but offering greater design flexibility.

[0059] In one embodiment, the turbine may comprise a hybrid aerodynamic and electrical guidance system for the rotors (11, 12). In this configuration, initial positioning may be achieved by passive aerodynamic means, such as tails or deflector surfaces, while fine adjustments and rapid responses to sudden wind variations may be achieved by electric actuators. This The hybrid system combines the robustness and simplicity of passive control with the precision and responsiveness of active control.

[0060] Figure 1 illustrates a wind turbine comprising a support and lifting tower (1), a base (2), a base bearing (3), a chassis (4), a nacelle (13), the nacelle including a generator (5), a horizontal rotation shaft (10), a guiding mechanism (33), a gearbox; the turbine also comprising a power generator (5), and a horizontal rotation shaft (10). Furthermore, it is also possible to observe in Fig. 1 a front rotor (11), mounted on the front part of the nacelle, and a rear rotor (12), mounted on the rear part of the nacelle. The horizontal rotation shaft is configured to connect the two rotors (11, 12), fixed to it.

[0061] Figure 2 illustrates in more detail, in a left side view of the turbine in Fig. 1, the two rotors (11, 12), the front rotor hub (6), the rear rotor hub (9), where the respective rotor blades (7, 8) are mounted. The front rotor has a smaller blade diameter compared to the rear rotor in order to increase the turbine's efficiency while ensuring smooth and stable operation, even under varying wind conditions. This blade configuration allows for the recovery of some of the energy lost in the front rotor, as well as directing more air to the lateral edges of the rear rotor, also providing greater stability to the turbine tower.

[0062] Figure 3 illustrates in more detail, in a top view of the turbine of fig. 1, an aerodynamic guidance mechanism included in the turbine nacelle, comprising a tail rod (14), fixed directly to the turbine chassis (4) and where the right and left tails (15, 16) are mounted. On the tails (15, 16) are mounted a set of blades (20, 22, 30, 32), a set of bearings (17, 18), a set of springs (25, 27), a set of bearing supports (23, 24), and a set of spring locks (26, 28). The tail blades (20, 22, 30, 32) are configured to move gradually from the vertical to the horizontal position to adjust the rotors to the best operating angle. This movement of the tails allows them to glide through the air, relieving wind pressure on the rotor blades and positioning them almost parallel to the wind in stormy conditions. To protect the structure's balance and maintain power generation, the rotor assembly allows the turbine to be quieter, emit less noise, and produce more mechanical, electrical, and secondary energy.

[0063] The term "comprises" or "comprising" when used in this document is intended to indicate the presence of the features, elements, wholes, steps and components mentioned, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, wholes, steps and components, or groups thereof.

[0064] The present invention is, of course, in no way limited to the embodiments described in this document, and a person with average knowledge of the field could foresee many possibilities for its modification and for the substitution of technical features with equivalent ones, depending on the requirements of each situation, as defined in the appended claims.

[0065] The following claims define additional realizations of the present description.

Claims

CLAIM WHAT IT IS 1. Horizontal axis wind turbine for wind power generation, the turbine comprising: a support and lifting tower (1); a chassis (4); a power generator (5); a front rotor (11); a rear rotor (12); a nacelle (13), wherein the nacelle (13) comprises a generator (5), a horizontal axis of rotation (10), an aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) and a gearbox; wherein the front rotor (11) and the rear rotor (12) are fixed to the horizontal axis of rotation (10) so as to connect the rotors (11, 12) to said horizontal axis of rotation (10); wherein the front rotor (11) is mounted on a front part of the nacelle (13); and the rear rotor (12) is mounted on a rear part of the nacelle (13); and wherein the rotors (11, 12) comprise blades (7, 8);and wherein the front rotor (11) comprises a smaller blade diameter (7) compared to the blade diameter (8) of the rear rotor (12) in order to increase the efficiency of the wind turbine while ensuring smooth and balanced operation, even under varying wind conditions.

2. Wind turbine according to the previous claim, wherein each of the two rotors (11,12) comprises a gearbox.

3. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, comprising an active blade direction guidance system (7,8).

4. Wind turbine according to any one of claims 1-3, comprising a passive blade direction guidance system (7,8).

5. Wind turbine according to any one of claims 4 and 5, comprising a combined blade direction guidance system (7,8), comprising the active guidance system and the passive guidance system.

6. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a blade pitch control system.

7. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) comprises a rod (14) fixed to the turbine chassis (4); at least one tail (15); wherein the rod supports at least one tail (15); and wherein at least one tail (15) comprises a set of blades (20, 22) that drive the gradual movement of the tails from the vertical to the horizontal position to adjust the rotors (11, 12) to the best operating angle.

8. Wind turbine according to the previous claim, wherein the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) comprises a tail (15) positioned on top of the rear rotor (12).

9. Wind turbine according to claim 7, wherein the aerodynamic guidance mechanism (33) comprises two tails (15, 16) positioned laterally to the rear rotor (12).

10. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a front rotor rotation control mechanism (11).

11. Wind turbine according to the previous claim, wherein the rotation control mechanism of the front rotor (11) is inserted into the base of the rotor hub itself (11).

12. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the nacelle (13) is mounted on the support and lifting tower (1).

13. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rear rotor (12) comprises a greater number of blades than the front rotor (11).

14. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the front rotor (11) and the rear rotor (12) are configured to rotate in opposite directions.

15. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio between the diameter of the blades (7) of the front rotor (11) and the diameter of the blades (8) of the rear rotor (12) is defined by a range between 10% and 90%, preferably 10% to 50%, more preferably 10% to 30%.

16. Wind turbine according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a hybrid aerodynamic and electrical guidance system for the rotors (11,12).

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