Vertical axis wind turbine system for enhanced efficiency

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) system that incorporates a unique wind curtain mechanism to reduce wind drag and enhance the rotational efficiency of the turbine blades. The wind curtain allows wind to hit only one side of the turbine blades, eliminating drag from the opposing side and ensuring smoother, uninterrupted rotation. the 90- degree wind curtain structured in a way the blades move in one direction alone. This design improves the energy conversion efficiency of the turbine, offering a solution to replace conventional horizontal axis wind turbines with increased power generation at minimal cost. The design is adaptable to all terrains due to its height and structure, making it suitable for widespread implementation.

Description

RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )VERTICAL AXIS WIND TURBINE SYSTEM FOR ENHANCED EFFICIENCYFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to energy devices for renewable energy. The present invention specifically relates to wind turbines and system associated with it for the production of renewable energy more efficiently. The present invention specifically relates to vertical axis wind turbine system with enhanced efficiency.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Renewable energy is energy that comes from sources that are naturally replenished, like the sun, wind, water, and heat from the Earth. Renewable energy sources are abundant, emit little to no pollution, and can be used to generate electricity. One of the major sources of the same is wind. Wind power or wind energy is a form of renewable energy that harnesses the power of the wind to generate electricity. It involves using wind turbines to convert the turning motion of blades, pushed by moving air (kinetic energy) into electrical energy (electricity) .

[0003] Wind turbines are divided into two primary types based on their design: Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs) and Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) . These types differ in how they capture wind energy and how they' re positioned relative toRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )the wind. Here' s a breakdown of each type : Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs) : These turbines have blades that rotate around a horizontal axis, like a propeller . Typically, they have three blades, mounted on a tower with the rotor facing into the wind. HAWTs are the most common and efficient type of wind turbine, used for large- scale wind farms . The typical large wind turbines you see in open fields or offshore installations .

[0004] Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) : VAWTs have blades that rotate around a vertical axis, meaning the rotor spins perpendicular to the ground. They are often more compact and can capture wind from any direction, eliminating the need for a yaw system. VAWTs are less efficient than HAWTs but are often preferred for certain locations, like urban areas, due to their ability to operate in turbulent wind conditions . The Darrieus-type and Savonius-type VAWTs are common examples .

[0005] At present, wind power is the most efficient method of sustainable energy production, this being the scenario, current research and trends in wind turbine technologies include offshore wind energy, especially floating ones are gaining traction. Other aspects of research include in the development of blade design & materials, energy storage integration, automation and Al . Much focus has also been diverted to small-scale turbines for residential use these days . As the environmentalRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )impact using these have been immense several prior art discusses various aspects of wind turbine inventions like the prior art like the patent application US7821148B2 titled as "wind turbine "discusses A wind turbine has a horizontal axis of rotation and features a hub beam and two turbine blades attached to opposing ends of the hub beam in a spaced-apart relation. The blades have a first position in which the blades are radially arrayed about the hub beam. The blades have a second position in which the blades are folded and moored to the tower . A control system communicates with weather sensors and determines whether to move the blades between the first and second positions .

[0006] Yet another patent application US8303250B2 titled as "method and apparatus for increasing lift on wind turbine blade" discusses a lift generating apparatus for a wind turbine rotor blade comprising a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall coupled together at a leading edge and at a trailing edge . The lift generating apparatus includes at least one forward blade extension coupled to the rotor blade to define a first airflow channel between the forward blade extension and the rotor blade . The lift generating apparatus also includes at least one aft blade extension coupled to the rotor blade to define a second airflow channel between the aft blade extension and the rotor blade .RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )

[0007] Also, another application CA2666269C titled as "apparatus and method for increasing energy capture in a wind turbine" discusses a wind turbine ( 100) includes a variable speed control system (300) , the control system (300) having an initial rotational speed set point . At least two operational parameters are obtained from one or more sensors (314 ) . An adjusted rotational speed set point greater than the initial rotational speed set point is determined in response to the operational parameter . The control system (300) is configured with the adjusted rotational speed set point .

[0008] Though there are several prior arts which discusses improving wind turbine efficiency on various aspects, none of the prior arts discuss vertical axis wind turbine that incorporates a unique wind curtain mechanism to reduce wind drag and enhance the rotational efficiency of the turbine blades .OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The primary obj ective of the present invention is to provide a system and method to enhance the energy conversion efficiency of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) by incorporating a wind curtain mechanism that minimizes wind drag on the turbine blades .

[0010] It is also another obj ective of the present invention to provide a cost-effective and saferRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )alternative to conventional horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs) , with built-in features such as dynamic wind curtain adaptability and an emergency stop mechanism.

[0011] It is yet another obj ective of the present invention is to develop a versatile and adaptable wind turbine design capable of operating efficiently across a variety of terrains and environments with the capacity of upscaling as well .SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The wind turbine with the wind curtain system functions by guiding the wind to one side of the turbine blades, eliminating drag from the opposite side . This mechanism ensures smooth, onedirectional rotation, enhancing the overall efficiency of wind energy conversion. The dynamic nature of the wind curtain allows it to adapt to changing wind conditions, and the emergency stop feature provides a safety mechanism when necessary. This innovative approach offers a significant improvement in operational efficiency compared to conventional wind turbines, making it a more effective solution for global wind energy generation .

[0013] The present invention discusses the turbine blades are made to move in one direction alone, byRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )the 90-degree wind curtain which allows the wind to hit the blade located on one side of the turbine and prevents it from hitting the blades located on the other side of the turbine, eliminating wind drag and ensuring smooth rotation leading to increased conversion of the wind energy into electrical energy. Unlike the existing fixed narrow blades, they are unique in design being flat, broad and long.

[0014] This novel design can be used for replacing all the existing and operating windmills all over the world by upgrading to this design leading to multiple fold increase in the operating efficiency and power generation at minimal cost . This design would be ideally suited for all terrain due to its height .BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0015] Fig 1 Illustrates a pictorial representation of an embodiment of the wind turbine showing the wind curtain, turbine blades, and vertical shaft .

[0016] Fig 2 Illustrates a top-down view of the windmill turbine showing the arrangement of the blades and wind curtain.

[0017] Fig 3 Illustrates a detailed view of the wind curtain, including the vane, support structure, and wind direction management .RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )

[0018] Fig 4 Illustrates a vertical crosssection showing the scaled-up model of the wind turbine, including the gearbox and blade support ring .

[0019] Fig 5 Illustrates a detailed view of the full windmill structure, including the wind curtain support, generator, and vertical shaft

[0020] REFERENCE NUMERALS1 Wind mill tower2 Generator3 Vertical shaft4 Shaft housing5 blade6 Central hub7 Top bearing block8 Wind curtain9 Curtain handle10 Curtain bottom circular ring11 Blade support ring12 Blade support roller13 Wind curtain support ring roller14 Wind grill15 Gear boxDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] REFERENCE NUMERALS1 Wind mill tower2 GeneratorRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )3 Vertical shaft4 Shaft housing5 blade6 Central hub7 Top bearing block8 Wind curtain9 Curtain handle10 Curtain bottom circular ring11 Blade support ring12 Blade support roller13 Wind curtain support ring roller14 Wind grill15 Gear box

[0022] The present invention introduces a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) featuring a novel wind curtain mechanism that eliminates the drag on the turbine blades during rotation. The turbine blades (5) are designed to move in a single direction, thanks to the strategic positioning of a curved wind curtain ( 8 ) that blocks the wind from hitting the blades on one side . The wind is allowed to flow only toward the front-facing blades, aiding in smooth rotation and increasing the turbine ' sRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )efficiency in converting wind energy into electrical power .

[0023] As seen in Figure 1, the turbine features a central hub ( 6) connected to a vertical shaft (3) that supports the turbine blades (5) . The wind curtain ( 8 ) is strategically placed on one side of the turbine to create a wind shade area, eliminating the drag on the blades as they rotate . This allows for a one-way rotation of the turbine, thereby ensuring smooth and efficient operation. The wind curtain ( 8 ) is connected to a vane ( 9) , which helps position it according to the direction of the wind.

[0024] Figure 3 shows the wind curtain ( 8 ) along with its supporting structure . The curtain is designed with inward-facing grills ( 14 ) that allow wind to enter and strike the back of the turbine blades (5) , further enhancing the turbine ' s rotation efficiency. The curtain' s dynamic positioning ensures that it continually faces the oncoming wind, allowing the turbine to harness maximum wind energy .

[0025] Figure 4 presents a vertical cross-section of the turbine in a scaled-up configuration, featuring additional components like a gearbox ( 15) and blade support ring ( 11 ) . The wind curtain' s support ring ( 13) helps ensure that the curtain maintains its proper position during operation, allowing for continuous rotation. This configuration significantly increases the turbine ' s power generation capacity.RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )

[0026] Figure 5 illustrates the full, scaled-up version of the wind turbine, including the complete wind curtain assembly. The turbine' s bottom circular ring ( 10) supports the entire curtain structure, while the shaft housing (4 ) and other components are designed to facilitate smooth operation .

[0027] The wind curtain plays an essential role in ensuring uninterrupted rotation by preventing drag on the blades . It is designed to change position based on the wind direction, ensuring that it always faces the wind and continues to facilitate efficient energy conversion. Additionally, the curtain can be repositioned in emergency situations, where it is shifted to the opposite side of the turbine to stop the blades by redirecting the wind toward both sides, halting rotation .

[0028] This design offers an innovative approach to wind energy generation, making it suitable for replacing traditional windmills and enhancing power generation on a global scale .

[0029] Mechanism of action

[0030] Mechanism of Action of the Vertical Axis Wind Turbine with Wind Curtain

[0031] The proposed vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) system operates through a novel mechanism incorporating a wind curtain to enhance the efficiency of the wind turbine . The mechanism ensures smooth, uninterrupted rotation of the turbine blades while minimizing drag, ultimatelyRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )leading to a more efficient conversion of wind energy into electrical power . Below is a detailed breakdown of how the system works :

[0032] Wind Interaction with the Blades :

[0033] The turbine blades (5) are arranged on a central hub ( 6) and rotate around a vertical shaft (3) . When wind hits the blades, it causes them to rotate, converting the kinetic energy from the wind into rotational mechanical energy.

[0034] The blades are designed to be broad, long, and flat, unlike the traditional narrow blades, which allows for better wind capture and energy conversion .

[0035] Role of the Wind Curtain ( 8 ) :

[0036] The wind curtain ( 8 ) plays a crucial role in eliminating drag and maintaining the smooth movement of the turbine . Positioned on one side of the turbine, it blocks the wind from hitting the blades on the opposing side . This selective wind flow reduces the drag that typically hinders rotation in conventional wind turbines .

[0037] The curtain is positioned to only allow wind to impact the side of the blades that are facing the oncoming wind. This minimizes the aerodynamic resistance that typically arises from opposing wind forces, allowing for continuous one-way rotation.

[0038] Wind Curtain Movement and Control :

[0039] The wind curtain is connected to a vane ( 9) on the opposite side of the turbine and is designed to adjust based on the wind direction. The vane ensuresRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )that the curtain always faces the oncoming wind maintaining maximum energy capture .

[0040] The curtain can move around the turbine and is supported by a bearing hub (7 ) located at the top of the vertical shaft . The bottom circular ring ( 10) holds the curtain in place, ensuring that it rotates smoothly around the turbine without obstruction .

[0041] In this dynamic setup, the wind curtain is able to follow the wind' s direction, continuously optimizing the turbine' s efficiency by ensuring that only one side of the turbine blades receives the wind force .

[0042] Enhanced Blade Rotation Without Drag:

[0043] As the wind hits the exposed side of the turbine blades (5) , it pushes the blades in the direction of rotation. On the other half of the rotation (the opposite side of the turbine) , the wind curtain shields the blades from the wind, preventing them from experiencing drag or resistance . This results in smoother and more efficient rotation of the blades .

[0044] This "blade mode" of operation is maintained through the wind curtain, which ensures that the turbine does not slow down or become less efficient during the less wind-exposed side of the rotation.

[0045] Emergency Stopping Mechanism:

[0046] The wind curtain is also designed to provide an emergency stop feature for the turbine . In case of malfunction or safety concerns, the wind curtainRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )can be shifted to the opposite side, allowing the wind to hit both sides of the turbine blades .

[0047] This causes the wind to directly hit both sides of the blades, stopping their rotation. The shift of the curtain to the other side is facilitated through the bearing hub and circular ring mechanism, ensuring a quick and effective halt to the turbine' s operation.

[0048] Grill and Residual Wind Flow:

[0049] The wind curtain features inward-facing grills ( 14 ) that allow residual wind to pass through. These grills direct the wind toward the back of the blades, contributing to the smooth and continuous motion of the turbine . This additional wind flow from the rear ensures that the blades experience minimal resistance, which further optimizes their efficiency during rotation.

[0050] The curved design of the wind curtain enables it to guide the wind around the turbine, ensuring that there is no disruption in the overall flow of energy while minimizing the impact of wind drag.

[0051] Scalable and Adaptable Design:

[0052] The design of the wind turbine and wind curtain system can be scaled up for higher energy generation. In larger configurations, the turbine can be fitted with additional components like a gearbox ( 15) to further enhance its energy output and efficiency.

[0053] The overall system is adaptable to different terrains, thanks to the height and structure of the vertical axis wind turbine, making it suitable forRSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )widespread implementation in diverse geographic locations .

[0054] The wind turbine with the wind curtain system functions by guiding the wind to one side of the turbine blades, eliminating drag from the opposite side . This mechanism ensures smooth, onedirectional rotation, enhancing the overall efficiency of wind energy conversion. The dynamic nature of the wind curtain allows it to adapt to changing wind conditions, and the emergency stop feature provides a safety mechanism when necessary. This innovative approach offers a significant improvement in operational efficiency compared to conventional wind turbines, making it a more effective solution for global wind energy generation .

[0055] The wind turbine is designed with scalability in mind, and the system includes additional components like a gearbox ( 15) to support larger turbine configurations . The other elements of the design include a blade support ring ( 11 ) , blade support roller ( 12 ) , and a wind curtain support ring roller ( 13) , all of which contribute to the turbine ' s stability and smooth operation.

[0056] This embodiment of the wind turbine represents a significant advancement in wind energy technology, offering a highly efficient and scalable solution to wind power generation, with improved energy output and minimal operational drag .

Claims

RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025- 001 )We Claim :1 . A vertical axis wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy, comprising :a windmill tower ( 1 ) configured to support the vertical axis wind turbine structure ;a vertical shaft ( 3 ) housed within a shaft housing ( 4 ) and connected to a central hub ( 6 ) ;a generator ( 2 ) positioned at the base of the windmill tower ( 1 ) and operatively connected to the vertical shaft ( 3 ) ;a plurality of blades ( 5 ) mounted on the central hub ( 6 ) via blade support rings ( 11 ) and blade support rollers ( 12 ) , said blades ( 5 ) positioned to rotate around the vertical shaft ( 3 ) ;a wind curtain ( 8 ) having inward- facing wind grills ( 14 ) positioned adj acent to the turbine and configured to shield the blades ( 5 ) on one side of the vertical shaft ( 3 ) from oncoming wind to prevent drag, while directing wind towards the opposite side of the blades ( 5 ) , thereby improving operational ef ficiency; anda circular ring ( 10 ) connected to the wind curtain ( 8 ) , configured to provide rotational support via wind curtain support ring rollers ( 13 ) .2 . The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the inward- facing grills ( 14 ) allow the wind to enter and hit the back of the turbine blades ( 5 ) , assisting in the smooth rotation of the turbine .RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )3. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wind curtain ( 8 ) is mounted on a vane via a top bearing block (7 ) and is configured to align itself dynamically with the incoming wind direction, covering a 90-degree area to eliminate drag on the oncoming blades .

4. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wind curtain ( 8 ) is configured to allow residual wind to flow around the turbine to further reduce drag and maximize wind energy conversion efficiency.

5. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1, further comprises a curtain handle ( 9) and a circular ring ( 10) that are configured to manually or automatically shift the wind curtain ( 8 ) to the opposite side during emergencies to halt the turbine by subj ecting blades on both sides to wind drag and thereby allowing wind to flow onto blades on both sides of the turbine .

6. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1 is scaled up including a gearbox ( 15) configured for adjusting the rotational speed of the vertical shaft (3) to optimize power generation based on wind speed.RSA25P0032 ( INP-2025-001 )7. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the blades (5) are configured to travel along their circular traj ectory such that : during one half of the rotation, the blades are pushed by wind on the exposed side; andduring the other half of the rotation, the wind curtain ( 8 ) prevents wind drag by blocking wind from hitting the oncoming blades .

8. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the turbine blades (5) are flat, broad, and long, designed to rotate in one direction due to the action of the wind curtain ( 8 ) that prevents drag.

9. The vertical axis wind turbine wind turbine for converting wind energy into electrical energy as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vertical axis wind turbine further comprises a blade support ring ( 11 ) and blade support rollers ( 12 ) to facilitate smooth rotation of the blades (5) .

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