Building-Integrated Vertical Axis Wind Turbine With Track Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbines, both horizontal axis and vertical axis, face inefficiencies due to friction, alignment requirements, and weight-bearing issues, which lead to energy loss and frequent bearing replacements.
Innovation Solution
A vertical axis wind turbine with horizontally situated blades and a central shaft, supported by a track system that minimizes friction and allows for free rotation, is integrated into a building structure, optimizing blade configuration and generator setup for enhanced efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If horizontal axis wind turbines use bearings to support the rotor shaft, then the turbine can convert wind energy to electrical energy, but the bearings experience friction and wear requiring regular replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the bearing support function from the horizontal axis configuration and relocates it to a vertical axis configuration where the rotor is supported at the top by a single bearing assembly, separating the weight-bearing function from the rotational friction points
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional horizontal axis configuration by using a vertical axis wind turbine where the rotor rotates vertically instead of horizontally, fundamentally changing the orientation and support requirements to eliminate continuous bearing friction
2Productivity
If horizontal axis wind turbines are aligned with prevailing wind direction, then maximum energy can be harvested from that direction, but the turbine cannot efficiently capture wind from other directions
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical axis wind turbine design provides universal functionality by capturing wind from all directions simultaneously, making the turbine adaptable to varying wind patterns without requiring repositioning or realignment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic design where the vertical rotor automatically adjusts to wind conditions from any direction, eliminating the static alignment requirement of horizontal axis turbines and enabling continuous energy capture regardless of wind direction changes
3Ease of operation
If vertical axis wind turbines use vertically rotating components supported by bearings, then the turbine can rotate freely, but the bearings must support large weight causing friction and energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the weight-bearing function from the bearing support system and consolidates it to a single top-mounted bearing assembly, removing the continuous friction contact points along the vertical axis that cause energy loss
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of supporting the rotating components from below with multiple bearings, the patent inverts the support configuration by mounting the bearing at the top, allowing the rotor to hang freely and rotate with minimal friction interference
4Power
If horizontal axis wind turbines use gearboxes to step up rotational speed, then the generator can efficiently convert mechanical energy to electrical energy, but the gearbox adds complexity and friction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the speed multiplication function from the gearbox and achieves it through the vertical axis rotor design itself, which naturally generates higher rotational speeds without requiring mechanical gear multiplication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical gearbox system with a direct-drive vertical axis rotor configuration, eliminating the intermediate mechanical transmission components and their associated friction and complexity while maintaining efficient energy conversion
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces energy loss due to friction and alignment issues, increases energy harvesting from varying wind directions, and extends the lifespan of bearings by minimizing wear and tear.
Implementation Method 1
Wind turns the propeller-like blades of a turbine around a rotor
Implementation Method 2
lift-based designs which move from lift that is developed by the vanes
Implementation Method 3
the rotor, which spins a generator, which creates electricity
Data Source
AI summary
A vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) is provided for structural support and aesthetic integration with residential homes and buildings. The turbine is coupled to a substantially circular track, located proximal to its periphery, which at least partially supports the turbine's weight while allowing rotation. The VAWT may function as the roof of a residential home or other conventional building type as the support structure. The number of blades can be three or five, and the turbine can be situated on buildings with polygonal shapes. The turbine may be supported on a track and may include a support overhang that extends beyond the support structure and connects to the track using a c-shaped bearing. The shaft of the turbine connects to a gear that transfers torque to one or more generators. This inventive wind generator system provides an efficient, visually appealing, and integrated solution for generating renewable energy.