3D Pitot Tube Array for Wind Shear Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wind measurement technologies, such as cup anemometers and remote sensing technologies, face limitations in accurately measuring wind speed and direction, especially in complex terrains and fluctuating wind conditions, leading to significant errors in wind energy production predictions and turbine misalignment, which result in energy losses and premature wear.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional fluid velocity measurement device (FVMD) with a spherical main body and multiple Pitot tubes arranged in a 3D configuration, capable of measuring wind shear, inclination, and turbulence, providing redundant data points to minimize errors and withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cup anemometers and wind vanes are used for wind measurement, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the measurement precision is insufficient especially in complex terrains and fluctuating wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the wind measurement function into multiple independent Pitot tubes oriented in different directions (fore-aft, port-starboard, and vertical). Each tube measures velocity in its specific direction, and the combined data provides comprehensive three-dimensional wind flow characterization. This segmentation enables accurate measurement of complex wind patterns while keeping each individual sensor relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional two-dimensional (horizontal plane only) wind measurement to three-dimensional measurement by adding vertical component measurement capability through the third Pitot tube oriented vertically. This dimensional expansion allows accurate measurement of wind shear, turbulence, and complex flow patterns that cannot be captured by horizontal-only sensors.
2Reliability
If multiple Pitot tubes are arranged in 3D configuration, then the measurement precision and redundancy are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple Pitot tube assemblies into a single integrated spherical housing structure. All tubes are mounted on the same sphere, sharing common mounting features, sealing systems, and environmental protection. This merging approach reduces the number of separate components, simplifies assembly procedures, and ensures consistent spatial relationships between sensors while maintaining measurement redundancy.
3Measurement precision
If traditional mechanical anemometers are used, then the device is simple and robust, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates in off-axis flow conditions exceeding 15 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The spherical array of Pitot tubes provides universal measurement capability in all three spatial dimensions. Any incident wind direction can be measured by selecting the appropriate combination of tubes, making the system adaptable to any flow condition without performance degradation. The system functions effectively whether wind comes from any azimuth or elevation angle.
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 FVMD offers accurate, three-dimensional wind flow measurements, reducing errors in wind energy predictions and turbine alignment, enhancing the reliability and longevity of wind turbines by providing real-time data on dynamic pressure and flow characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-directional fluid velocity measurement device (FVMD) with a spherical main body and multiple Pitot tubes arranged in a 3D configuration
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of Pitot tubes are arranged in a three-dimensional (3D) configuration about the main body
Data Source
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AI summary
This present application relates generally to the science of fluid flow measurement and provides a multi‐directional fluid velocity measurement device (FVMD) employing a plurality of pitot tubes arranged in a 3D configuration and extending from a spherical main body in which measurement sensors are provided.