Wind Turbine Funnel Structure for Low-Speed Airflow Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind power generation equipment requires minimum average annual wind speeds of 9-13 mph for efficiency, which is not feasible in many regions, and is costly for installation and maintenance, making it unaffordable for residential and commercial users.
Innovation Solution
A power generation apparatus with an inlet funnel, wind turbine unit, and outlet funnel that accelerates low wind speeds, utilizing diffusers and air foils to increase airflow efficiency, and includes a sail to protect components during high winds, harnessing approximately 70% of airflow for electricity generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wind power generation equipment is used, then adequate wind speed (9-13 mph) is required for efficient operation, but this makes the equipment unaffordable and infeasible for many regions with lower wind speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet funnel is designed to accelerate low wind speeds by creating a pressure differential that funnels air through a restricted opening, increasing the velocity of air reaching the turbine blades. This allows the system to operate efficiently in regions with wind speeds below the conventional 9-13 mph requirement by transforming the parameter of wind speed through aerodynamic design
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a dimensional element by introducing the inlet funnel structure that extends forward from the turbine, creating a three-dimensional airflow capture volume. This funnel structure captures wind from a broader spatial area and directs it through a focused pathway, effectively converting low-speed ambient wind into high-speed targeted flow at the turbine location
2Productivity
If wind power generation equipment is designed for adequate wind speed harnessing, then power generation capability is improved, but installation and maintenance costs become prohibitive for residential and commercial users
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components including the inlet funnel, turbine assembly with blades, generator, and tail vane, which can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site. This segmentation reduces transportation costs, simplifies installation procedures, and enables easier maintenance by allowing individual component replacement without dismantling the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring high wind speeds to drive large turbines, the invention inverts the approach by using a small turbine with an inlet funnel that actively accelerates low-speed wind. This reversal of the conventional design paradigm enables effective power generation in low-wind environments with smaller, more affordable equipment
3Productivity
If the inlet funnel remains in axial alignment to maximize airflow, then power generation efficiency is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to damage during high wind events
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet funnel is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed, allowing it to change its orientation and opening area in response to varying wind conditions. During normal operation, the funnel maintains axial alignment with the wind direction to maximize airflow capture. During high wind events, the funnel can pivot or close to reduce the exposed surface area and redirect excessive airflow away from the turbine, thereby protecting the system from damage
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor wind speed and direction, automatically adjusting the inlet funnel's position and the tail vane's orientation. This feedback control ensures the funnel remains optimally aligned during moderate winds for maximum efficiency, while automatically triggering protective repositioning when wind speeds exceed safe operating thresholds
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 apparatus effectively generates electricity from low wind speeds, increasing airflow efficiency and reducing maintenance costs, making it economically viable for various locations.
Implementation Method 1
an inlet funnel 12 that accelerates wind/air flow 56 through a restricted opening 22
Implementation Method 2
one or more wind turbine blade units 76 that are rotated by wind/air flow 56
Implementation Method 3
a generator 104 that generates electricity 194 when the one or more wind turbine blade units 76 rotate
Implementation Method 4
an outlet funnel 16 that directs wind/air flow 56 exiting the wind turbine unit 14
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation apparatus includes a wind turbine unit including a first end and having one or more wind turbine blade units rotatably carried therein which are activated to rotate by wind/airflow moving therethrough. Each of the one or more turbine blade units is operably connected to a generator to generate electricity when the one or more wind turbine blade units rotate. An inlet funnel is axially aligned with the first end of the wind turbine unit when in an operative position. The inlet funnel is pivotally carried to pivot out of the operative position when wind/airflow increases excessively so that at least a portion of the wind/airflow is redirected and reduced from entering the wind turbine unit.