Compact Ducted Wind Turbine for Residential Energy Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large, efficient wind power generation systems are poorly suited for urban and residential areas due to space constraints, aesthetic objections, and maintenance complexities, and small turbines struggle to achieve high Reynolds number conditions for efficient energy extraction.
Innovation Solution
A compact wind power generation system with a blunt-leading-edge contracting inlet, a unique turbo-propeller design, and a diffusing exit plenum that accelerates airflow to high Reynolds numbers, allowing for efficient energy extraction while concealing moving parts within an enclosure for aesthetic and safety benefits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If large wind power generation systems are used to achieve efficient energy extraction, then energy extraction efficiency is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase making them unsuitable for urban and residential areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by transitioning from conventional horizontal-axis wind turbines to a vertical-axis ducted propeller configuration. This dimensional reorientation allows the system to achieve high Reynolds number conditions (efficient energy extraction) in a compact footprint suitable for urban environments. The ducted propeller arrangement creates a three-dimensional flow path that concentrates kinetic energy through the contraction ratio while maintaining a small ground footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by optimizing the contraction ratio (5:1 to 10:1) of the inlet duct and adjusting the propeller pitch angle (15-30 degrees) to achieve high Reynolds number flow conditions. These parameter optimizations enable efficient energy extraction from low-speed winds (7-15 mph) while maintaining a compact system size. The diffuser section further modifies flow parameters to maximize pressure recovery and energy capture.
2Productivity
If conventional wind turbines are deployed in urban areas, then energy generation is achieved, but aesthetic objections and safety concerns arise due to visible moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the propeller and generator components inside an enclosed housing structure. The ducted propeller is nested within the inlet duct and diffuser assembly, concealing all moving parts from external view. This nested configuration eliminates safety hazards from exposed rotating components while maintaining aesthetic appeal for urban and residential installations, yet still allows the system to generate energy efficiently through optimized airflow paths.
3Device complexity
If small wind turbines are used to fit space constraints, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to achieve high Reynolds number conditions for efficient energy extraction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the inlet duct and diffuser as intermediary components that mediate between the ambient wind flow and the propeller. These intermediaries concentrate and condition the airflow, creating high Reynolds number conditions at the propeller even when the overall system is compact. The duct acts as an intermediary that funnels and accelerates the wind, while the diffuser serves as an intermediary that recovers pressure and maximizes energy transfer to the propeller, enabling efficient energy extraction in a small footprint.
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
The system achieves enhanced energy extraction efficiency, reduced maintenance complexity, and improved safety by operating at high Reynolds number conditions, extracting up to 70% of theoretical kinetic energy, compared to conventional systems, while being aesthetically and logistically suitable for residential use.
Implementation Method 1
The inlet is configured with a contraction ratio, as measured between the first end of the inlet and the first side of the propeller, of at least 5:1
Implementation Method 2
The propeller is configured to extract mechanical energy from airflow captured by the inlet
Implementation Method 3
an exit plenum connected to a second side of the propeller
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary compact wind power generation systems are configured to be suitable for residential and other locations where concealed moving parts are desirable. The wind power generation systems utilize a propeller disposed behind a contracting inlet. The propeller blades may be oriented “into the wind” to develop consistent torque across a variety of wind speeds. The propeller may rim-drive power generation components, further reducing vibration, or may share a common rotational axis with the power generation components.