Wind and Solar Energy Tower with Self-Starting Segmented Rotors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind and solar energy extraction systems are complex, prone to failure due to multiple components, and often require external power sources or mechanisms to operate effectively, limiting their reliability and efficiency under varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A land-based system combining solar and wind energy extraction methods, featuring independent rotor-and-generator units for wind energy and a funnel-shaped structure for solar energy, which operates without motors, burners, or pumps, and includes self-starting mechanisms to ensure continuous energy production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple components are used in wind and solar energy extraction systems, then energy extraction capability is improved, but system complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent rotor-and-generator units, each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to maintain energy extraction capability while reducing overall complexity, as each unit is simpler than traditional integrated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor-and-generator units are designed to serve multiple functions: they extract wind energy, provide structural support, and can operate independently or in combination. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining productivity.
2Productivity
If multiple components are used in wind and solar energy extraction systems, then energy extraction capability is improved, but system reliability decreases due to more failure points
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into independent rotor-and-generator units, the failure of one unit does not affect the operation of others. This modular approach maintains reliability while preserving energy extraction capability through parallel operation of multiple units.
Solution Approach 2:
The units include self-starting mechanisms that eliminate the need for external power sources or complex control systems to initiate operation. This self-service capability reduces the number of external components and potential failure points, thereby improving reliability while maintaining energy extraction capability.
3Productivity
If external power sources or mechanisms are used to operate energy extraction systems, then system performance is improved, but independence and reliability under varying conditions decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The rotor-and-generator units are equipped with self-starting mechanisms that enable them to begin operation automatically under varying wind and solar conditions without external assistance. This self-service capability ensures the system maintains performance and independence across different environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to dynamically adapt to varying conditions through the natural operation of multiple independent units. As wind and solar conditions change, different units can activate or deactivate accordingly, maintaining overall system performance without requiring external control mechanisms.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If complex mechanisms are used to ensure continuous operation, then energy production continuity is improved, but system complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous operation is achieved through multiple independent rotor-and-generator units rather than a single complex mechanism. This segmentation allows the system to maintain continuous energy production while keeping each individual unit simple and easy to maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The system ensures continuous energy production by having multiple units that can operate simultaneously or in sequence. This approach maintains uninterrupted energy output without requiring complex switching mechanisms or control systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
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 reliable and efficient energy production over 24 hours, independent of weather conditions, with the wind energy component being self-starting and capable of operating at near-full capacity even if one unit fails, and the solar component utilizing natural convection and wind assistance for enhanced energy harvesting.
Implementation Method 1
the solar component utilizing natural convection and wind assistance for enhanced energy harvesting
Implementation Method 2
the wind energy component being self-starting and capable of operating at near-full capacity
Data Source
AI summary
An inverted funnel-shaped columnar tower (115) includes a window region (120), a heat absorbing surface (130), an air entrance (116) and exit (117). Solar energy passes through the window region and heats the heat absorbing surface. A plurality of fans (145), each connected to a generator (150), are suspended within the tower and extract energy from convectively rising air, generating electricity. A fan (160) outside the tower intercepts wind and turns an internal fan (145′) that aids the convective flow, providing a self-starting feature. A plurality of rotors (100) with wings (705) are connected in groups to generators (725) and all are arranged adjacent the tower. The rotors intercept wind energy and deliver it to the generators for conversion to electricity. The rotors include a flap (800) that predetermines the direction of rotation of the rotor, providing a second self-starting feature. The convection and wind-capture functions operate independently.