Wind Driven Machine Furling System for Automated Energy Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind-driven power systems require constant attention to manage high wind speeds and storage capacity, lacking an automated mechanism to efficiently transition between active and inactive modes.
Innovation Solution
A wind-driven machine with a furling system that automatically moves between active and inactive positions based on wind speed and energy storage thresholds, utilizing a propeller and tail section with a linkage system and actuator to control the orientation and operation of the compressor, ensuring consistent energy production and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a wind-driven power system is designed to operate continuously, then energy production is maximized, but the system requires constant manual intervention to manage high wind speeds and storage capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs automatic control mechanisms including wind sensors, storage capacity sensors, and actuators that enable the wind-driven machine to autonomously transition between active and inactive positions. The controller receives signals from sensors and actuates the furling system without human intervention, allowing the system to serve itself by managing its own operation based on real-time conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor wind speed and storage capacity, transmit this information to the controller, which then adjusts the machine's position accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures the system responds automatically to changing conditions, maximizing energy production while eliminating manual intervention
2Power
If the wind-driven machine operates in high wind speeds, then energy capture is increased, but the system risks damage and requires furling to an inactive position
Solution Approach 1:
A wind sensor continuously monitors wind speed and provides feedback to the controller. When the sensor detects wind speed exceeding a predetermined threshold, the controller automatically actuates the furling system to move the propeller section to an inactive position, protecting the system from damage while capturing energy during favorable conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on real-time wind conditions. The propeller section can transition between active and inactive positions, allowing the system to optimize energy capture during moderate winds and protect itself during high winds, thereby maintaining reliability while maximizing power generation
3Reliability
If manual furling systems are used to manage inactive positions, then system protection is achieved, but maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic furling system with actuators and controllers eliminates the need for manual operation and reduces maintenance requirements. The system autonomously manages transitions to inactive positions, reducing wear on mechanical components and minimizing the frequency of maintenance interventions compared to manual furling systems
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 solution enables a mechanically automated and efficient wind-driven compressor system that maintains optimal operation by adjusting to wind conditions, reducing maintenance needs and ensuring consistent energy production and storage, thereby providing utility independence for homeowners.
Implementation Method 1
a propeller section (110) selectively engageable with the wind to rotate about an axis
Implementation Method 2
a biasing member positioned between the respective sections to urge one of the respective sections toward the inactive position when the wind speed increases beyond a predetermined threshold
Data Source
AI summary
According to the present invention, there is provided a wind driven machine with a furling system to move the machine to between an active position and an inactive position in response to a predetermined condition. The wind driven machine includes a propeller section and a tail section, the tail section hinged to the propeller section to direct the propeller section into the wind. The furling system includes a first portion to rotate with one of the respective sections and a second portion that is generally rotationally fixed and moves axially between an active position and an inactive position corresponding to the active and inactive positions of the wind driven machine.