WO2019018931A1 - Éoliennes et pales - Google Patents

Éoliennes et pales Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019018931A1
WO2019018931A1 PCT/CA2018/050897 CA2018050897W WO2019018931A1 WO 2019018931 A1 WO2019018931 A1 WO 2019018931A1 CA 2018050897 W CA2018050897 W CA 2018050897W WO 2019018931 A1 WO2019018931 A1 WO 2019018931A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
wind
energy
compressed air
blade
wind turbine
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/CA2018/050897
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English (en)
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WO2019018931A9 (fr
Inventor
Reno Barban
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Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to CA3088189A priority Critical patent/CA3088189A1/fr
Publication of WO2019018931A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019018931A1/fr
Publication of WO2019018931A9 publication Critical patent/WO2019018931A9/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D3/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D3/06—Rotors
    • F03D3/061—Rotors characterised by their aerodynamic shape, e.g. aerofoil profiles
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D9/00—Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
    • F03D9/10—Combinations of wind motors with apparatus storing energy
    • F03D9/17—Combinations of wind motors with apparatus storing energy storing energy in pressurised fluids
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D9/00—Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
    • F03D9/10—Combinations of wind motors with apparatus storing energy
    • F03D9/18—Combinations of wind motors with apparatus storing energy storing heat
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
    • F05B—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
    • F05B2240/00—Components
    • F05B2240/20—Rotors
    • F05B2240/21—Rotors for wind turbines
    • F05B2240/221—Rotors for wind turbines with horizontal axis
    • F05B2240/2213—Rotors for wind turbines with horizontal axis and with the rotor downwind from the yaw pivot axis
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
    • F05B—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
    • F05B2250/00—Geometry
    • F05B2250/70—Shape
    • F05B2250/71—Shape curved
    • F05B2250/711—Shape curved convex
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70—Wind energy
    • Y02E10/72—Wind turbines with rotation axis in wind direction
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70—Wind energy
    • Y02E10/74—Wind turbines with rotation axis perpendicular to the wind direction
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/16—Mechanical energy storage, e.g. flywheels or pressurised fluids

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to the collection of energy from wind. More specifically, the present invention relates to blades, wind turbines, energy storage, and methods for generating electricity from wind.
  • Conventional wind turbines typically employ cantilever beams, or fins, for capturing wind energy.
  • the fins are angled with respect to the wind, and the passing wind imparts a rotational force on the fins which is transmitted to a generator to produce electricity.
  • conventional wind turbines typically harness only a fraction of the wind energy; can experience damaging stress during high winds if not deactivated; and often require energy consuming and/or costly equipment to maintain proper orientation with respect to changing wind directions.
  • Trillium wind turbines as described in US Patent Nos. 8,747,067 and 9,464,621 (both of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties), represent significant departures from traditional turbine and blade designs, featuring complex blade curvatures for capturing and harnessing energy from wind.
  • Described herein are blades, turbines, energy storage systems, and methods for capturing energy. Specially developed turbine blades are described, which feature complex designs for capturing and collecting energy from, in particular, the wind. Turbines, and methods for producing energy from wind, are also provided.
  • turbines and methods described herein may include the use of a weight for storing surplus energy in the form of potential energy by lifting the weight during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions. Stored surplus captured wind energy may then be released and harnessed by lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions, thereby powering energy generation apparatus to generate electricity.
  • turbines and methods described herein may include the use of an air compressor to generate a compressed air in a compressed air tank during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions. Stored surplus captured wind energy may then be released by releasing the compressed air and flowing the compressed air over the blade of the wind turbine to cause rotation thereof during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power energy generation apparatus to generate electricity.
  • a blade for a turbine such as a wind turbine
  • the blade comprising: a main blade portion having a first end, a second end, a wind-facing surface, and a rear surface, the wind-facing surface of the main blade portion being shaped in a concave arc tracing a portion of a substantially circular path of radius r, the substantially circular path decreasing in radius r moving from the first end to the second end along the main blade portion, and the main blade being curved moving from the first end to the second end, such that incoming wind is received in a first direction at a wind capturing zone located in the vicinity of the first end, is funnelled along the wind-facing surface toward the second end of the main blade portion along an increasingly narrow pathway defined by the wind-facing surface, and exits the blade in a second direction at an increased velocity; a leading edge portion extending from an upper edge of the wind-facing surface of the main blade portion, the leading edge portion projecting outwardly with respect to the substantially circular path, thereby providing
  • the leading edge portion may project outwardly with respect to the substantially circular path at a tangent angle ⁇ which increases moving from the first end to the second end.
  • the leading edge portion may project outwardly with respect to the substantially circular path with a pitch angle p, which increases moving from the first end to the second end along the main blade portion.
  • the pitch angle p may increase from about 15° at the first end to about 75° at the second end of the main blade portion.
  • the trailing edge portion may project inwardly with respect to the substantially circular path at substantially the same angle as the leading edge portion.
  • leading surface of the leading edge portion may be oriented with respect to the trailing edge portion so as to direct wind under the trailing edge toward the first end of the main blade portion, and over the trailing edge portion toward the second end of the main blade portion.
  • the radius r of the substantially circular path may decrease from about 1.75x at the first end to about 0.875x at the second end of the main blade portion.
  • the wind-facing surface of the main blade portion may be shaped in a concave arc having a rise on chord b which increases from about lx at the first end to about 1.5x proximate the first end, and then decreases to about 0.75x at the second end along the main blade portion.
  • the trailing edge portion may increase and then decrease in size moving from the first end to the second end of the main blade portion.
  • the second direction at which wind exits the blade may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction.
  • the second direction at which wind exits the blade may be substantially tangential to the rotation of the blade during use.
  • the main blade may be twisted moving from the first end to the second end, such that the second direction at which wind exits the blade is substantially tangential to the rotation of the blade during use.
  • the twisting of the main blade may begin toward the second end of the main blade.
  • the portion of the substantially circular path traced by the wind-facing surface of the main blade portion may be defined by a chord angle A, which decreases moving from the first end to the second end along the main blade portion.
  • the chord angle A may decrease from about 90° at the first end to about 0° at the second end.
  • the blade may further comprise a jib blade attached to, and spaced apart from, the rear surface of the main blade and extending between the first end and the second end of the main blade, the jib blade substantially following the curve of the main blade, the jib blade directing air along the rear surface of the main blade with relatively low pressure reducing drag and providing lift to aid with rotation of the blade during use.
  • the jib blade may become increasingly narrow moving from the first end toward the second end of the main blade.
  • the jib blade may be spaced apart from the rear surface of the main blade by a distance ⁇ , where y increases moving from the first end to the second end along the main blade portion.
  • leading edge, trailing edge, and jib blade may have a pitch angle p which is substantially the same.
  • a turbine comprising: a base; a nacelle supported by the base, the nacelle comprising a wind-facing end and a rear end and housing an energy generation assembly; and a plurality of blades attached to the rear end of the nacelle.
  • the turbine may be for capturing energy from, for example, wind.
  • the plurality of blades may be blades as defined hereinabove. In yet another embodiment, the above turbine or turbines may comprise 3 blades, or more.
  • the wind-facing end of the nacelle may be aerodynamically-shaped.
  • the wind-facing end of the nacelle may be substantially cone-shaped or rounded cone-shaped.
  • the nacelle may be rotatable about the base, such that the nacelle and blades act as a vane, maintaining the wind facing-end of the nacelle facing into the wind.
  • the base thickness may narrow in the vicinity of the nacelle to reduce wind turbulence.
  • the plurality of blades may be adjustably attached to the rear end of the nacelle such that back sweep of the blades can be adjusted to accommodate different wind conditions.
  • the back sweep of the blades may be decreased when wind conditions are weak, thereby capturing more wind at the wind capturing zone to assist energy production.
  • the back sweep of the blades may be increased when wind conditions are strong, thereby capturing less wind at the wind capturing zone to prevent damage to the wind turbine.
  • the turbine may further comprise a supporting member extending from the base to the rear end of the nacelle, and an auxiliary support member extending from each side of the supporting member to each side of the nacelle, the supporting member and two auxiliary support members forming a tripart vane which supports the nacelle and reduces wind turbulence.
  • the nacelle may comprise at least one front louvre and at least one back louvre, which may be activated to allow wind to pass through the interior of the nacelle, cooling the energy generation assembly.
  • the turbine may further comprise: a weight in communication with the energy generation assembly; wherein the energy generation assembly is configured to store surplus energy by vertically lifting the weight during low demand or high wind conditions, and wherein the energy generation assembly is configured to recover stored surplus energy by vertically lowering the weight during high demand, or during low wind conditions, and/or to facilitate start-up of the energy generation assembly.
  • the energy generation assembly may comprise a winch for lifting the weight, and a fly wheel which is rotated by lowering the weight so as to build momentum for overcoming resistance to start-up of the energy generation assembly during low wind conditions and/or to maintain a more constant power output.
  • the base may comprise a vertical support member, and the weight may be housed within and vertically translatable along a length of the vertical support member.
  • the vertical support member may comprise a subsurface foundation
  • the weight may be housed in the subsurface foundation when not being used to store energy.
  • the weight may be used as a hoist or service elevator transport to the nacelle and/or blades.
  • the base may be supported by one or more stay cables.
  • the turbine may be for harnessing energy from wind, steam, compressed air, solar, or geothermal driven sources.
  • a method for generating electricity comprising: capturing wind energy by directing wind across any of the blade or blades defined above to cause rotation thereof; and using the captured wind energy to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the blade may be a blade of any of the turbine or turbines as defined above.
  • the method may further comprise: storing surplus captured wind energy by vertically lifting a weight during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions, and recovering stored surplus captured wind energy by vertically lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power the energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • a method for generating electricity comprising: capturing wind energy by directing wind across a blade of a wind turbine to cause rotation thereof; and using the captured wind energy to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity; wherein the method further comprises: storing surplus captured wind energy by vertically lifting a weight during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions; and recovering stored surplus captured wind energy by vertically lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power the energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • a method for generating electricity comprising: capturing wind energy by directing wind across a blade of a wind turbine to cause rotation thereof; and using the captured wind energy to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity; wherein the method further comprises: storing surplus captured wind energy by powering an air compressor to generate a compressed air in a compressed air tank during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions; and recovering stored surplus captured wind energy by releasing the compressed air to a pneumatic drive transferring the energy to a flywheel and/or to the rotor/blades to cause rotation thereof during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power the energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the method may further comprise: cooling the compressed air during the step of storing, thereby increasing energy storage by removing heat generated by compression; heating the compressed air during the step of recovering, thereby increasing the amount of energy received by the blade of the wind turbine; or both.
  • the step of cooling may comprise cooling the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, a heat exchange fluid from a tank or reservoir, thereby cooling the compressed air and heating the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of storing.
  • the step of heating may comprise heating the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, a heat exchange fluid from a tank or reservoir, thereby heating the compressed air and cooling the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of recovering.
  • the tank or reservoir may comprise a geothermal reservoir.
  • the method may comprise repeating the steps of storing and recovering as conditions cycle between low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions and high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions.
  • a method for storing surplus energy captured by a wind turbine comprising: storing the surplus energy by vertically lifting a weight during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions, and recovering the stored surplus energy by vertically lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • a method for storing surplus energy captured by a wind turbine comprising: storing the surplus energy by powering an air compressor to generate a compressed air in a compressed air tank during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions; and recovering the stored surplus energy by releasing the compressed air to a pneumatic drive transferring the energy to a flywheel and/or to the rotor/blades to cause rotation thereof during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the air compressor may be powered, in part or in full, by energy generated by the wind turbine.
  • the method may further comprise: cooling the compressed air during the step of storing, thereby increasing energy storage by removing heat generated by compression; heating the compressed air during the step of recovering, thereby increasing the amount of energy received by the blade or blades of the wind turbine; or both.
  • the step of cooling may comprise cooling the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, a heat exchange fluid from a tank or reservoir, thereby cooling the compressed air and heating the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of storing.
  • the step of heating may comprise heating the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, a heat exchange fluid from a tank or reservoir, thereby heating the compressed air and cooling the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of recovering.
  • the tank or reservoir may comprise a geothermal reservoir.
  • the method may comprise repeating the steps of storing and recovering as conditions cycle between low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions and high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions.
  • a compressed air-based energy storage system comprising: a compressed air tank; an air compressor configured to compress air from an air inlet into the compressed air tank; and an outlet from the compressed air tank, the outlet configured to direct compressed air from the compressed air tank to an electricity generation apparatus for generating electricity from the compressed air.
  • the air compressor may be powered, at least in part, by the electricity generation apparatus.
  • the electricity generation apparatus may comprise a wind turbine.
  • the system may further comprise a heat exchange system configured to cool the compressed air while compressed air is being stored in the compressed air tank, configured to heat the compressed air while compressed air is being directed through the outlet to the electricity generation apparatus, or both.
  • the heat exchange system may comprise a tank or reservoir for a heat exchange fluid, the tank or reservoir configured to circulate the heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid provides, directly or indirectly, cooling to the compressed air while compressed air is being stored in the compressed air tank, and becomes heated; heating to the compressed air while compressed air is being directed through the outlet to the electricity generation apparatus, and becomes cooled; or both.
  • the tank or reservoir may comprise a geothermal reservoir.
  • a wind turbine comprising: a base; a nacelle supported by the base; a plurality of blades attached to the nacelle; and a compressed air-based energy storage system as described herein.
  • the blades may be blades as described herein.
  • FIGURE 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a blade for a wind turbine as described herein, when viewed toward the first end of the blade;
  • FIGURE 2 shows another perspective view of the blade for a wind turbine shown in Figure 1, when viewed toward the side of the main blade portion and the jib blade, as viewed at about 90° to the direction of the wind;
  • FIGURE 3 shows a front perspective view of the blade for a wind turbine shown in Figure 1, when viewed toward the wind facing surface of the blade;
  • FIGURE 4 shows a cross sectional view of the blade for a wind turbine as shown in Figure 1;
  • FIGURE 5 shows 5 cross sectional views ( Figures 5A-5E) of the blade for a wind turbine as shown in Figure 1, the cross sectional views depicting cross-sections 4A-4E as indicated in Figures 2 and 3, which progress from the second end ( Figure 5 A) to the first end ( Figure 5E) along the main blade portion;
  • FIGURE 6 shows a rear perspective view (6 A) and a cross-sectional side view (6B) of an embodiment of a wind turbine as described herein;
  • FIGURE 7 shows a perspective view of the wind turbine shown in Figure 6, with the nacelle and base made transparent to illustrate internal elements;
  • FIGURE 8 shows side profile (8A) and top (8B) views of the wind turbine shown in Figure 6;
  • FIGURE 9 shows 5 cross sectional views ( Figures 9A-9E) of another embodiment of a blade for a wind turbine.
  • the cross sectional views depict a variation closely related to those in Figure 5, but adjusted to depict a blade embodiment with reduced twist toward the second end of the blade (compare Figure 5B with Figure 9B);
  • FIGURE 10 shows (A) a wind turbine which includes an embodiment of a compressed air-based energy storage unit as described herein, and (B) a cross-section taken along A-A in (A); and
  • FIGURES 11(A) and 11(B) show embodiments of compressed air-based energy storage units as described herein which may be retrofitted to existing wind turbines, or which may be included as part of new-build wind turbines. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • Wind Turbine Blades Described herein are blades, turbines, energy storage systems, and methods for capturing energy. It will be appreciated that embodiments and examples are provided for illustrative purposes intended for those skilled in the art, and are not meant to be limiting in any way. Wind Turbine Blades
  • blades for a wind turbine may feature a main blade portion, a leading edge portion, and a trailing edge portion designed for capturing wind and collecting energy therefrom.
  • An exemplary and illustrative embodiment of such blades is depicted in Figures 1-5.
  • Figures 1-5 An exemplary and illustrative embodiment of such blades is depicted in Figures 1-5.
  • Figures 1-5 are intended for the person of skill in the art, and are not intended to be limiting in any way.
  • the skilled person having regard to the teachings herein will understand that several suitable modifications, additions, deletions, substitutions, and alterations may be made to the blades depicted in Figures 1-5 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • Several design parameters and values are provided in Figures 1-5, however the skilled person will recognize that many suitable variations may be made to suit particular applications as desired.
  • Figures 1-5 depict an embodiment of a blade (1) for a wind turbine (2) as described herein, the blade (1) comprising: a main blade portion (3) having a first end (4), a second end (5), a wind-facing surface (6), and a rear surface (7), the wind-facing surface (6) of the main blade portion (3) being shaped in a concave arc tracing a portion of a substantially circular path (8) of radius r, the substantially circular path (8) decreasing in radius r moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5) along the main blade portion (3), and the main blade portion (3) being curved moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5), such that incoming wind is received in a first direction at a wind capturing zone (9) located in the vicinity of the first end (4), is funnelled along the wind-facing surface (6) toward the second end (5) of the main blade portion (3) along an increasingly narrow pathway (10) defined by the wind-facing surface (6), and exits the blade (1) in a second direction at an increased velocity; a
  • leading surface (13) of the leading edge portion (11) is oriented with respect to the trailing edge portion (14) so as to direct wind under the trailing edge (14) toward the first end (4) of the main blade portion (3), and over the trailing edge portion (14) toward the second end (5) of the main blade portion (3).
  • the leading edge portion (11) projects outwardly with respect to the substantially circular path at a tangent angle ⁇ which increases moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5).
  • Tangent angle ⁇ is labelled in Figure 9C.
  • the angle at which the leading edge portion (11) projects may also be considered with respect to pitch angle p, which is measured from the horizontal or wind direction (see Figure 5).
  • the pitch angle p may increase moving from the first end to the second end along the main blade portion.
  • the pitch angle p may increase from about 15° at the first end to about 75° at the second end of the main blade portion. It will be understood that pitch angle may also be referred to as angle of attack.
  • the trailing edge portion projects inwardly with respect to the substantially circular path at substantially the same angle as the leading edge portion.
  • the pitch angle p of the leading edge and the trailing edge may be the same or substantially the same along at least a portion of the blade.
  • blades as described herein may feature a main blade portion (3) featuring a wind-facing surface (6), and may provide a wind capturing zone (9) which captures incoming wind received in a first direction, and an increasing narrow pathway (10) along which the captured wind is funnelled until wind exits the blade in a second direction at an increased velocity (due to narrowing of the pathway, wind is accelerated).
  • Figure 2 depicts incoming wind direction, and twisting/curvature of the illustrated blade which gradually redirects wind such that wind exits in a second direction which is different from the first. As wind is redirected, it pushes on the blade, imparting rotational force.
  • Figure 3 provides a front perspective view of an embodiment of a blade for a wind turbine, illustrating the wind facing surface and the twisting/curving of the main blade portion moving from the first end to the second end.
  • the second direction at which wind exits the blade is substantially perpendicular (i.e. about 90°) to the first direction of the incoming wind.
  • incoming wind is received in a first direction which is substantially parallel to the ground, and exits the blade in a second direction which at an angle of about 90° to the first direction.
  • the curvature of the blade (1) is such that the second direction of the exiting wind is not only about 90° to the first direction of the incoming wind, but is also substantially tangential to the rotation of the blade during use.
  • the depicted blade may be attached to a hub of a wind turbine, and caused to rotate about the hub by force from the incoming wind.
  • the second end (5) of the blade will thus trace a circular path when rotating about the hub.
  • the curvature of the blade (1) is such that the second direction of the exiting wind is substantially tangential to this circular path, with wind exiting behind the blade which is in rotation, further adding to the energy being collected from the incoming wind by adding force contributing to blade rotation and/or directing wind behind the rotating blade.
  • the twisting main blade may be considered with regard to Figures 3 and 5. As shown in the depicted embodiment, the main blade may be twisted moving from the first end to the second end, such that the second direction at which wind exits the blade is substantially tangential to the rotation of the blade during using. In Figures 3 and 5, the twisting of the main blade occurs toward the second end of the main blade, at or around cross-section 4B.
  • Figure 5 depicts cross sections of a blade embodiment having a pronounced twist (see Figure 5B), whereas Figure 9 depicts a blade variation without substantial twisting (see Figure 9B, compared with Figure 5B).
  • the curve of the main blade may therefor result in wind exiting the main blade about 90° to the incoming wind direction, while the twist of the main blade (if present) may result in wind exiting the main blade substantially tangential to the rotation of the blade during use.
  • the main blade portion (3) may present a wind-facing surface (6) being shaped in a concave arc tracing a portion of a substantially circular path (8) of radius r, the substantially circular path (8) decreasing in radius r moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5) along the main blade portion (3).
  • Figures 4 and 5 provide a cross sectional views of a wind turbine blade embodiment as described herein, which further illustrates design features of the blade and wind facing surface.
  • Figure 5 shows 5 illustrative cross sectional views ( Figures 5A-5E) of an embodiment of a blade for a wind turbine, the cross sectional views depicting cross-sections 4A-4E as labelled in Figures 2 and 3, which progress from the second end ( Figure 5A) to the first end ( Figure 5E) along the main blade portion.
  • the depicted wind- facing surface (6) is shaped in a concave arc tracing a portion of a substantially circular path (8) of radius R.
  • the substantially circular path (8) decreases in radius R moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5) along the main blade portion (3).
  • the radius R of the substantially circular path (8) decreases from about 1.75x near the first end (4) to about 0.875x near the second end (5) of the main blade portion (3).
  • the wind-facing surface (6) of the main blade portion (3) is shaped in a concave arc having a rise on chord b which increases from about lx at the first end to about 1.5x proximate the first end, and then decreases to about 0.75x at the second end along the main blade portion.
  • the portion of the substantially circular path traced by the wind-facing surface (6) of the main blade portion (3) is defined by a chord angle A (see Figures 4 and 5A-5E), which decreases moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5) along the main blade portion (3).
  • the chord angle A decreases from about 90° at the first end to about 0° at the second end.
  • the blade comprises a leading edge portion (11) extending from an upper edge (12) of the wind-facing surface (5) of the main blade portion (3), the leading edge portion (11) projecting outwardly with respect to the substantially circular path (8) at a tangent angle ⁇ which increases moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5), thereby providing a leading surface (13) which directs additional wind onto the wind- facing surface (6) of the main blade portion (3) in the vicinity of the wind capturing zone (9) and provides lift.
  • Tangent angle ⁇ is labelled in Figure 9C.
  • the angle at which the leading edge portion (11) projects may also be considered with respect to pitch angle p, which is measured from the horizontal or wind direction (see Figure 5).
  • the pitch angle p may increase moving from the first end to the second end along the main blade portion.
  • the pitch angle p may increase from about 15° at the first end to about 75° at the second end of the main blade portion. It will be understood that pitch angle may also be referred to as angle of attack.
  • the trailing edge portion projects inwardly with respect to the substantially circular path at substantially the same angle as the leading edge portion.
  • the pitch angle p of the leading edge and the trailing edge may be the same, or substantially the same, along at least a portion of the blade.
  • the outward projection of the leading edge portion (11) may be seen in Figures 4, 5, and 9, illustrating projection of the leading edge portion (11) outwardly from the circular path (8).
  • the tangential angle ⁇ defining the direction of projection is shown in Figure 9C, and is taken as the angle between the leading surface (13) and the tangent to the circular path (8) taken at the point of the leading edge about the circular path.
  • the leading edge portion (11) may project outwardly with respect to the substantially circular path (8) with a pitch angle p, which increases moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5) along the main blade portion (3).
  • the pitch angle p increases from about 15° at the first end to about 75° at the second end of the main blade portion (3).
  • the blade comprises a trailing edge portion (14) extending from a lower edge (15) of the wind-facing surface (6) of the main blade portion (3), the trailing edge portion (14) projecting inwardly with respect to the substantially circular path (8) thereby providing a lower barrier (16) for preventing wind escape during progression from the wind capturing zone (9) toward the second end (5).
  • the inward projection of the trailing edge portion (14) may be seen in Figures 4 and 5, illustrating projection of the trailing edge portion (14) inwardly from the circular path (8).
  • the pitch angle p of the leading edge and the trailing edge may be the same, or substantially the same, along at least a portion of the blade (see Figures 5, 9).
  • the trailing edge portion (14) first increases, and then decreases, in size/height moving from the vicinity of the first end (4) to the second end (5) of the main blade portion (3).
  • the trailing edge portion (14) has the effect of providing a lower barrier (16), or ridge, which prevents escape of wind as it travels along the increasingly narrow pathway (10) during use.
  • the blade embodiment depicted in Figures 1-5 additionally includes a jib blade (17) attached to, and spaced apart from, the rear surface (7) of the main blade (3) and extending along a region located between the first end (4) and the second end (5) of the main blade (3).
  • the jib blade (17) substantially follows the twist/curve of the main blade (3) and becomes increasingly narrow moving from the first end toward the second end of the main blade.
  • the jib blade (17) functions to direct air along the rear surface (7) of the main blade (with passing wind barely skimming over the rear surface) with relatively low pressure reducing drag and provide lift to aid with rotation of the blade (3) during use.
  • the jib blade may also be positioned at a pitch angle p, which is measured from the horizontal or wind direction (see Figure 4).
  • the pitch angle p may be at substantially the same angle as the leading edge portion, the trailing edge portion, or both.
  • the pitch angle p of the leading edge, the trailing edge, and the jib blade may be the same or substantially the same along at least a portion of the overall blade.
  • the jib blade (17) may be spaced apart from the rear surface (7) of the main blade (3) by a distance ⁇ (see Figure 4), where y increases moving from the first end (4) to the second end (5) along the main blade portion (3). Spacing y may be adjusted such that wind skims the back surface of the main blade in certain embodiments.
  • the blade may include, on its rear surface (7), a reinforced attachment point for hinged connection with a nacelle of a wind turbine.
  • a pair of blade extensions may project from the rear surface of the main blade near the first end, with a hinged joint located therebetween for connecting with the rotor of a wind turbine (see Figure 6).
  • Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, and 9 depict direction of incoming wind. However, since the blades will be in motion during use, it will be understood that rotating blades may experience an apparent direction of wind which is depicted in Figure 4 for illustrative purposes.
  • Wind Turbines for generating energy from wind.
  • Such wind turbines may, in certain embodiments, feature blade(s) as describe hereinabove, although it will be understood that wind turbines as described herein are not limited to the above- described blades and may comprise any other suitable blade(s) appropriate for the particular application.
  • wind turbines may include, for example, blade(s) as described hereinabove, blade(s) as described in either of US Patent Nos. 8,747,067 and/or 9,464,621 (both of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties), or other suitable blade(s) known to the person of skill in the art.
  • the wind turbines described below are primarily discussed as featuring blades as described hereinabove and depicted in Figures 1-5 and 9, it will be understood that other blade configurations are also contemplated herein.
  • FIG. 6-8 Exemplary and illustrative embodiments of wind turbines are described herein are depicted in Figures 6-8. As will be understood, these Figures are intended for the person of skill in the art, and are not intended to be limiting in any way. The skilled person having regard to the teachings herein will understand that several suitable modifications, additions, deletions, substitutions, and alterations may be made to the wind turbines depicted in Figures 6-8 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Several design features are provided in Figures 6-8, however the skilled person will recognize that many suitable variations may be made to suitable particular applications as desired.
  • Figures 6-8 depict embodiments of a wind turbine (2) as described herein, the wind turbine (2) comprising: a base (18); a nacelle (19) supported by the base (18), the nacelle (19) comprising a wind-facing end (20) and a rear end (21) and housing an energy generation assembly (22); and a plurality of blades (1) (such as those depicted in Figures 1-5 and 9) attached to the rear end (21) of the nacelle (19).
  • the wind turbines comprise 3 blades (1), although it will be understood that other configurations may be possible.
  • the wind turbine (2) may comprise any suitable number of blades appropriate for the particular application.
  • Wind turbines (2) as described herein may feature a base (18).
  • the base (18) is a tower-type base comprising a vertical support member (30).
  • the vertical support member (30) comprises a subsurface foundation (31), and the base (18) is additionally supported by one or more stay cables (32) attached thereto and anchored to the ground by helical piles (47).
  • the wind turbine (2) may comprise a supporting member (23) extending from the base (18) to the rear end (21) of the nacelle (19).
  • the base (18) may additionally include auxiliary support members (24) extending from each side of the supporting member (23) to each side of the nacelle (19), the supporting member (23) and two auxiliary support members (24) forming a tripart vane which supports the nacelle (19) and reduces wind turbulence.
  • the base thickness may narrow in the vicinity of the nacelle so as to reduce wind turbulence.
  • Suitable bases are not limited to those depicted in Figures 7 and 8.
  • the wind turbines (2) depicted in Figures 6-8 comprise a nacelle (19) supported by the base (18), the nacelle (19) comprising a wind-facing end (20) and a rear end (21) and housing an energy generation assembly (22).
  • the wind-facing end (20) of the nacelle (19) is aerodynamically-shaped, adopting a substantially cone-shaped or rounded cone-shaped configuration to guide incoming wind around the nacelle and toward the blades.
  • the nacelle (19) is rotatable about the base (18), such that the nacelle (19) and blades (2) act as a vane, maintaining the wind facing-end (20) of the nacelle (19) facing into the wind.
  • the nacelle (19) is rotatable about the base (18) by way of a bushing/bearing mechanism, or another suitable turn-table type mechanism, allowing nacelle rotation without rotation of the base.
  • the use of conventional yaw mechanism may thus be avoided.
  • the skilled person will understand that other rotational mechanisms may be used to achieve such function of the nacelle.
  • the nacelle (19) comprises at least one front louvre (25) and at least one back louvre (26), which may be activated to allow wind to pass through the interior of the nacelle (19), cooling the energy generation assembly (22) as needed.
  • the blades (1) are connected to the rear end (21) of the nacelle (19) via a rotor/hub (33). By positioning the blades (1) at the rear of the nacelle (19), turbulence about the turbine may be reduced and/or the vane effect of the wind turbine may be emphasized in certain embodiments.
  • the plurality of blades (1) are adjustably attached to the rear end (21) of the nacelle (19) such that back sweep of the blades (1) may be adjusted to accommodate different wind conditions.
  • hydraulics (34) may be configured to adjust back sweep angle of the blades during use. Individual hydraulics (34) may be used to control each blade, or a combined hydraulics (34) system may be used to operate multiple blades simultaneously using, for example, an umbrella-type hydraulic configuration.
  • back sweep adjustment may be used to decrease rotor diameter (increasing rpm) so as to maintain substantial the same power output.
  • back sweep of the blades may be adjustable such that the back sweep can be decreased when wind conditions are weak, thereby capturing more wind at the wind capturing zone to assist energy production. Further, in certain embodiments, the back sweep of the blades may be increased when wind conditions are strong, thereby capturing less wind at the wind capturing zone and decreasing rotor diameter to prevent damage to the wind turbine, as needed.
  • the energy generation apparatus of the wind turbines as described herein may include any suitable energy generation apparatus known to the person of skill in the art which may be configured to receive force/energy from the rotating turbine blades and convert the received force/energy into useful form of energy such as electricity (and/or potential or stored energy, depending on application).
  • suitable energy generation apparatus may comprise a generator in communication with the wind turbine blades via, for example, a drive shaft, the generator receiving rotational energy from the wind turbines and producing electricity.
  • generators may be housed within: the nacelle; in the base of the wind turbine; or may be located at ground level, depending on the particular application.
  • wind turbines (2) as described herein may further comprise: a weight (27) in communication with the energy generation assembly (22); wherein the energy generation assembly (22) is configured to store surplus energy by lifting the weight (27) during low demand or high wind conditions, and wherein the energy generation assembly (22) is configured to recover stored surplus energy by lowering the weight (27) during high demand, or during low wind conditions to facilitate start-up of the energy generation assembly (22).
  • the weight (27) may be formed from a dense material such as, for example, iron ingot or one or more stacked metal slabs. As will be understood, the weight (27) functions to store potential energy. As such, it is also contemplated herein that other suitable potential energy storage mechanisms may be used including, by way of example, a spring or elastic potential energy storage member.
  • the energy generation assembly (22) may comprise a start-up generator (40) and a cut-in generator (41), whereby the start-up generator, assisted by energy from lowering the weight (27), may be used to generate energy during low- wind conditions. Once a suitable momentum is reached following start-up, a relay switch (43) may be used to activate the cut-in generator (41) for further energy production.
  • the energy generation assembly (22) may comprise a winch (28) for lifting the weight (27), and a fly wheel (29) which is rotated by lowering the weight (27) so as to build momentum for overcoming resistance to start-up of the energy generation assembly during low wind conditions.
  • the base (18) of the wind turbine (2) may comprise a vertical support member (30), and the weight (27) may be housed within and vertically translatable along a length of the vertical support member (30).
  • the vertical support member (30) comprises a subsurface foundation (31), and the weight (27) is housed in the subsurface foundation (31) when not being used to store energy and/or when being used as an elevator or dumbwaiter.
  • the weight (27) may be used as a hoist or service elevator transport from ground level to the nacelle (19) and/or blades (1).
  • the base (12) of the wind turbine (2) may comprise an energy storage unit for storing energy during low demand, and providing the stored energy during high demand.
  • the energy storage unit may comprise a weight which may be lifted to store energy and lowered to release stored energy, as described above.
  • the energy storage unit may comprise a compressed air-based energy storage unit comprising a high-pressure air compressor powered by the wind turbine, which may be used to compress air from the environment into a compressed air tank during periods of low demand, or where energy being generated by the wind turbine is otherwise in excess of what is needed.
  • the compressed air may be released from the tank and blown over the blades of the wind turbine to cause rotation thereof to generate additional energy.
  • a heat exchange unit may be provided for cooling the compressed air during storage, for heating the compressed air during release of the compressed air to the blades, or for both.
  • a geothermal-based heat exchange unit may be provided, although it is contemplated that any other suitable heat exchange unit may alternatively or additionally be provided.
  • a heat exchange unit may comprise an underground (or partially underground) geothermal reservoir, with one or more refrigerant circuits for flowing refrigerant (for example, water, or other suitable refrigerant, coolant, or heat exchange fluid) out of, and back into, the geothermal reservoir.
  • the one or more refrigerant circuits may be configured to directly exchange thermal energy with the compressed air tank, or may be configured for thermal energy exchange with a separate refrigerant circuit (via, for example, a heat exchanger) which is in turn configured for thermal energy exchange with the compressed air tank, for example.
  • such embodiments may enter a "cooling cycle", during which air is compressed into the compressed air tank, and the compressed air is cooled using cool water (or other thermal energy exchange fluid) from the geothermal reservoir, thereby allowing for increased energy storage.
  • cool water or other thermal energy exchange fluid
  • the water (or other thermal energy exchange fluid) of the geothermal reservoir will become heated, either by taking heat directly from the compressed air, or by taking heat from a second refrigerant circuit which in turn takes heat from the compressed air tank.
  • a pneumatic drive may be provided which uses the compressed air from the compressed air tank to add energy to the flywheel and/or rotor/blades that is above and beyond the energy produced by the normal wind speed.
  • a "heating cycle" may be entered, during which hot water from the geothermal reservoir may be used to heat the compressed air, either directly or by heating a second refrigerant circuit which in turn heats the compressed air. Heating of the compressed air may increase the amount of energy provided by the compressed air to the flywheel, and to the blades of the wind turbine.
  • heating of the compressed air may have the effect of cooling the water (or other thermal energy exchange fluid) of the geothermal reservoir, preparing the system for another cooling cycle, thereby providing a repeatable loop.
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit may comprise an air compressor powered, directly or indirectly, by the wind turbine, or another source such as a solar energy source or a natural gas source; a compressed air tank in communication with the air compressor for receiving and storing compressed air therefrom; an optional stand-by air compressor, such as a natural gas- powered air compressor, for supplying compressed air to the compressed air tank when conditions are not suitable for operation of the main air compressor; a refrigerant circuit configured for thermal energy exchange with the compressed air tank; a geothermal reservoir containing a coolant or heat exchange fluid (for example, water or an aqueous fluid); a refrigerant circuit configured for thermal energy exchange with the fluid reservoir (for example, by cycling the coolant or heat exchange fluid out of, and back into, the geothermal reservoir); and a heat exchanger configured for exchanging thermal energy between the coolants/fluids of the two ref
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit may comprise an air compressor powered, directly or indirectly, by the wind turbine, or another source such as a solar energy source or a natural gas source; a compressed air tank in communication with the air compressor for receiving and storing compressed air therefrom; an optional stand-by air compressor, such as a natural gas-powered air compressor, for supplying compressed air to the compressed air tank when conditions are not suitable for operation of the main air compressor; a refrigerant circuit configured for thermal energy exchange with the compressed air tank; and a heat exchanger configured for exchanging thermal energy between the coolant/fluid of the refrigerant circuit and air.
  • an air compressor powered, directly or indirectly, by the wind turbine, or another source such as a solar energy source or a natural gas source
  • a compressed air tank in communication with the air compressor for receiving and storing compressed air therefrom
  • an optional stand-by air compressor such as a natural gas-powered air compressor, for supplying compressed air to the compressed air tank when conditions are not suitable for operation of the main air compressor
  • the geothermal reservoir may be omitted, and the compressed air may be heated/cooled using thermal energy exchange with air.
  • the heat exchanger may comprise any suitable cooling, heating, or dual-function thermal energy exchanger known to the person of skill in the art having regard to the teachings herein.
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit may comprise an air compressor powered, directly or indirectly, by the wind turbine, or another source such as a solar energy source or a natural gas source; a compressed air tank in communication with the air compressor for receiving and storing compressed air therefrom; and an optional stand-by air compressor, such as a natural gas-powered air compressor, for supplying compressed air to the compressed air tank when conditions are not suitable for operation of the main air compressor.
  • the apparatus for heating/cooling of the compressed air may be omitted, and the compressed air-based energy storage unit may function by storing and releasing compressed air.
  • compressed air-based energy storage units as described herein may be used with newly constructed wind turbines, or may be retrofitted onto existing wind turbines.
  • the wind turbines may comprise a wind turbine as described herein, although it will be understood that compressed air-based energy storage units as described herein may be used in connection with generally any suitable wind turbine known in the art.
  • the compressed air-based energy storage units may be integrated with one or more wind turbine(s), or may be configured as separate unit(s) in communication with the one or more wind turbine(s).
  • the components of the compressed air-based energy storage unit may be integrated into the foundation, base, and/or nacelle of the wind turbine.
  • the compressed air tank, compressor(s), and heat exchanger may be integrated into the base of the wind turbine and the geothermal reservoir may be integrated into, or may function as, the foundation of the wind turbine.
  • the compressed air tank, compressor(s), heat exchanger, and/or the geothermal reservoir, or any combination thereof may be provided separately from the wind turbine and in communication therewith.
  • the geothermal reservoir may be integrated with the foundation of the wind turbine, and the air compressor(s), compressed air tank, and heat exchanger may be provided separately from the wind turbine but in communication with the wind turbine and the geothermal reservoir.
  • Figure 10 depicts an embodiment of a wind turbine (2) as described herein, which includes an example of a compressed air-based energy storage unit as described herein.
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit of the wind turbine (2) comprises a high pressure air compressor (54) which draws air in via an air intake and compresses the air into compressed air tank (53).
  • the high pressure air compressor (54) is powered by energy generated from the wind turbine (2).
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit further includes a standby air compressor (55) which in this example runs on natural gas, for supplying compressed air when conditions are not suitable for operation of the high pressure air compressor (54), or to supplement air compressor (54).
  • the stand-by air compressor (55) is optional, and may be omitted.
  • the system is configured to store excess energy as compressed air in the compressed air tank (53).
  • the system is configured to release air from the compressed air tank (53) and direct the released air to the pneumatic drive (58) transferring the energy to a flywheel and/or to the rotor/blades over the blades of the wind turbine (2) to generate power, the compressed air being released via high pressure air supply (56), which is in communication with a swivel connection (57) and supplies the released air to pneumatic drive (58) which supplies energy to the flywheel (60), and the air discharged by the pneumatic drive (58) is directed to the rotor/blades to cause rotation thereof.
  • the wind turbine (2) includes a brake (59), a fly wheel (60) which is rotated by the blades, a low-speed shaft (61) rotated by the flywheel, a gear box (62) coupling low speed shaft (61) with high speed shaft (63), and startup and cut-in generators (64) and (65) powered by the high speed shaft (63).
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit further comprises a refrigerant circuit (51) configured for thermal energy exchange with the compressed air tank (53) to provide heating/cooling of the compressed air.
  • the refrigerant circuit includes a cold refrigerant supply (51a) and a hot refrigerant return (51c) which operates during low demand, and which then functions as a cold refrigerant return (51b) and a hot refrigerant supply (5 Id) during high demand.
  • the refrigerant circuit (51) is in communication with a heat exchanger (52).
  • the depicted embodiment of Figure 10 further includes a geothermal reservoir (49), and a refrigerant circuit (50) configured for circulating a fluid (i.e.
  • the refrigerant circuit (50) may directly circulate fluid from the geothermal reservoir (49) as depicted, however it is also contemplated that the refrigerant circuit (50) may contain its own heat exchange fluid, and the refrigerant circuit may be configured for thermal energy exchange with the fluid in the geothermal reservoir (49), for example.
  • the depicted refrigerator circuit (50) includes a cold water supply (50a) and a hot water return (50c) which operates during low demand, and which then functions as a cold water return (50b) and a hot water supply (50d) during high demand.
  • the refrigerant circuit (50) is in communication with a heat exchanger (52). At the heat exchanger (52), thermal energy exchange occurs between the refrigerant circuits (51) and (52) in accordance with the current mode of operation.
  • Section A-A of Figure 10 provides a cross-sectional view of the base (12), depicting refrigerant piping of the refrigerant circuit (51) associated with the compressed air tank (53), and an access shaft (66) provided in the base/tower (12).
  • the embodiment depicted in Figure 10 enters a "cooling cycle" in which a calculated amount of electrical power produced by the rotor of the wind turbine is used to operate the high pressure air compressor to compress air from the environment into the compressed air storage tank. Compressing the air generates heat, which would otherwise reduce the amount of energy that can be stored. Accordingly, cold water from the geothermal reservoir is used to cool the compressed air (indirectly) during this mode of operation, allowing for more energy to be stored.
  • the refrigerant in refrigerant circuit (51) draws heat from the compressed air and transfers the heat to the water in the refrigerant circuit (50) which is returned to the geothermal reservoir (49), causing heating of the reservoir water.
  • the embodiment depicted in Figure 10 enters a "heating cycle", in which a pneumatic drive uses the compressed air in the compressed air tank to add to the power generated by the rotor/blades of the wind turbine by using the pneumatic drive to add additional power to the flywheel and/or rotor blades.
  • Hot water from the geothermal reservoir (49) is used to heat the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (51), which in turn heats air in the compressed air tank, increasing the amount of energy stored therein which may be supplied to the rotors/blades for additional power production.
  • the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (51) is cooled, which cools the water of refrigerant circuit (50) which is returned to the reservoir, thus cooling the water in the geothermal reservoir (49), to be used in a subsequent cooling cycle as the generally self-sustained loop is repeated.
  • a flywheel 60 is included as part of the drive train which powers the generator.
  • the flywheel is large, and takes significant energy to spin up from a stop.
  • compressed air and/or compressors of the wind turbine may be operated to maintain momentum of the flywheel and keep the generator running during low wind conditions, thereby reducing loses associated with repeated start/stop cycles.
  • Figure 11A depicts additional embodiments of compressed air-based energy storage units as described herein, which may be retrofitted to existing wind turbines (including traditional wind turbines, for example), or included in new-build wind turbines.
  • the compressed air-based energy storage unit is provided separately from the wind turbine with which it is in communication.
  • the depicted compressed air-based energy storage units may be used in connection with one, or more than one, wind turbine (i.e. with multiple turbines).
  • Markers (x), (y), and (z) denote different configurations of the depicted compressed air-based energy storage unit.
  • the system includes compressor (54) and, optionally, compressor (55), as well as compressed air tank (53).
  • the system of (x) further includes a heat exchanger (52) and refrigerant circuit (51), the heat exchanger (52) using air as the source for heating and cooling of the compressed air tank.
  • the system of (y) further includes a geothermal reservoir (49) and refrigerant circuit (50) which circulates between the geothermal reservoir (49) and the heat exchanger (52), the heat exchanger (52) configured for thermal energy exchange between the refrigerant circuits (50) and (51).
  • Figure 11B depicts a conventional wind turbine which is fitted with an embodiment of a compressed air-based storage unit similar to that shown in configuration (z) of Figure 11 A, but wherein the geothermal reservoir (49) is used as the foundation for the conventional wind turbine thus replacing the conventional foundation, which is typically one of the more expensive components of conventional wind turbines.
  • a method for generating electricity comprising: capturing wind energy by directing wind across a blade as described herein thereby causing the blade to rotate; and using the captured wind energy to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the blades being used may be configured as part of a wind turbine as described herein.
  • the method may further comprise: storing surplus captured wind energy by vertically lifting a weight during low energ demand conditions or high wind conditions, and recovering stored surplus captured wind energy by vertically lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power the energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • a method for generating electricity comprising: capturing wind energy by directing wind across a blade of a wind turbine to cause rotation thereof; and using the captured wind energy to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity; wherein the method further comprises: storing surplus captured wind energy by vertically lifting a weight during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions; and recovering stored surplus captured wind energy by vertically lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power the energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the wind turbine being used may a wind turbine as described herein.
  • the weight (27) may be formed from a dense material such as, for example, iron ingot and/or metal slabs. As will be understood, the weight (27) functions to store potential energy. As such, it is also contemplated herein that other suitable potential energy storage mechanisms may be used including, by way of example, a spring or elastic potential energy storage member.
  • blades, turbines, and methods for generating electricity are described herein.
  • the present description has been primarily described in the context of wind being used as the source of energy to be harnessed. It will be understood, however, that blades, turbines, and methods as described herein may, in certain embodiments, be adapted to collect energy from other sources including, for example, another gas, liquid, or fluid.
  • the presently described blades, turbines, and/or methods may be adapted to capture energy from flowing steam (i.e. may be adapted to function as a steam turbine).
  • the presently described blades and turbines may, in certain embodiments, by adapted to harness energy from steam, geothermal, and/or solar sources.
  • blades and/or turbines described herein may be adapted for harnessing energy from compressed air; compressed air assisted with solar and/or geothermal energy; steam; and/or steam assisted with solar and/or geothermal energy.
  • references herein to "wind" may therefore be considered as encompassing a broad range of gas/liquid/fluid energy sources.
  • a method for generating electricity comprising: capturing wind energy by directing wind across a blade of a wind turbine to cause rotation thereof; and using the captured wind energy to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity; wherein the method further comprises: storing surplus captured wind energy by powering an air compressor to generate a compressed air in a compressed air tank during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions; and recovering stored surplus captured wind energy by releasing the compressed air using the pneumatic drive to add additional energy to the flywheel and/or rotor/blades to cause rotation thereof during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power the energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the method may further comprise: cooling the compressed air during the step of storing, thereby increasing energy storage by removing heat generated by compression; heating the compressed air during the step of recovering, thereby increasing the amount of energy received by the blade of the wind turbine; or both.
  • the step of cooling may comprise cooling the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, a heat exchange fluid from a tank or reservoir, such as a geothermal reservoir, thereby cooling the compressed air and heating the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of storing.
  • the step of heating may comprise heating the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, the heat exchange fluid from the tank or reservoir, thereby heating the compressed air and cooling the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of recovering.
  • the method may comprise repeating the steps of storing and recovering as conditions cycle between low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions and high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions.
  • a method for storing surplus energy captured by a wind turbine comprising: storing the surplus energy by vertically lifting a weight during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions, and recovering the stored surplus energy by vertically lowering the weight during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • a method for storing surplus energy captured by a wind turbine comprising: storing the surplus energy by powering an air compressor to generate a compressed air in a compressed air tank during low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions; and recovering the stored surplus energy by releasing the compressed air and using the pneumatic drive to add additional energy to the flywheel and/or rotor/blades to cause rotation thereof during high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions to power an energy generation assembly to generate electricity.
  • the air compressor may be powered, in part or in full, by energy generated by the wind turbine.
  • the method may further comprise: cooling the compressed air during the step of storing, thereby increasing energy storage by removing heat generated by compression; heating the compressed air during the step of recovering, thereby increasing the amount of energy received by the blade or blades of the wind turbine; or both.
  • the step of cooling may comprise cooling the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, a heat exchange fluid from a tank or reservoir, such as a geothermal reservoir, thereby cooling the compressed air and heating the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of storing.
  • the step of heating may comprise heating the compressed air using, directly or indirectly, the heat exchange fluid from the tank or reservoir, thereby heating the compressed air and cooling the heat exchange fluid of the tank or reservoir during the step of recovering.
  • the method may comprise repeating the steps of storing and recovering as conditions cycle between low energy demand conditions or high wind conditions and high energy demand conditions or during low wind conditions.
  • a compressed air-based energy storage system comprising: a compressed air tank; an air compressor configured to compress air from an air inlet into the compressed air tank; and an outlet from the compressed air tank, the outlet configured to direct compressed air from the compressed air tank to an electricity generation apparatus for generating electricity from the compressed air.
  • the air compressor may be powered, at least in part, by the electricity generation apparatus.
  • the electricity generation apparatus may comprise a wind turbine.
  • the compressed air-based energy storage system may further comprise a heat exchange system configured to cool the compressed air while compressed air is being stored in the compressed air tank, configured to heat the compressed air while compressed air is being directed through the outlet to the electricity generation apparatus, or both.
  • a heat exchange system configured to cool the compressed air while compressed air is being stored in the compressed air tank, configured to heat the compressed air while compressed air is being directed through the outlet to the electricity generation apparatus, or both.
  • the heat exchange system may comprise a tank or reservoir, such as a geothermal reservoir, for a heat exchange fluid, the tank or reservoir configured to circulate the heat exchange fluid such that the heat exchange fluid provides, directly or indirectly, cooling to the compressed air while compressed air is being stored in the compressed air tank, and becomes heated; heating to the compressed air while compressed air is being directed through the outlet to the electricity generation apparatus, and becomes cooled; or both.
  • a tank or reservoir such as a geothermal reservoir
  • EXAMPLE 1 - WIND TURBINE An example of a particular wind turbine configuration, including a number of optional additional features, is depicted in Figure 7.
  • the depicted wind turbine example comprises a wind turbine (2) having 3 blades (1). Additional wind turbine features and operation of this particular example are described herein below.
  • the energy generation assembly (22) comprises a rotor/hub (33) to which blades (1) are attached. Rotation of the rotor/hub (33) causes rotation of a low speed shaft (35), which is in communication with a brake (36) which may be used to stop rotation for, for example, performing maintenance.
  • a flywheel (29) is in communication with the low speed shaft (35), the flywheel functions to store energy during strong wind gusts, which are later released at a more constant rate. In other words, strong wind gusts create energy, and it is contemplated that the flywheel may be used to store and release such energy at a more constant rate.
  • the energy generation assembly (22) further comprises a winch (28) and a weight (27) in communication therewith.
  • the winch (28) may be used to lift the weight (27), storing potential energy.
  • the weight When power demand increases, or when wind speed is low, the weight may be lowered to release energy which may be used for power generation and/ or generator start-up .
  • the flywheel (29), together with winch (28) and weight (27), may be used to start a start-up generator (40) at low wind speed conditions.
  • start-up wind speed has high energy requirements.
  • momentum may be built up and used to start a start-up generator (27), thereby generating energy during low wind conditions and/or facilitating turbine start-up.
  • the low speed shaft (35) may be connected with a gear box (37) used for converting the low speed shaft rotation (for example, about 20 rpm to about 400 rpm) to high speed rotation (for example, about 1 :200 - 1 :800 rpm) of a high speed shaft (38), falling within a suitable rpm range for powering a typical generator.
  • gearing and rpm ranges may be adjusted to suit the particular generator and/or application being employed.
  • a direct-drive system lacking a gear box may be used.
  • the high speed shaft (38) is in communication with the start-up generator (40) and cut-in generator (41). Operation of the start-up generator (40) and cut-in generator (41) may be regulated by a relay switch (43).
  • a controller (39) may be included, which comprises a computer-based system which may, for example, run diagnostic tests, start and stop the turbine, and/or make turbine adjustments in response to variation in wind speed.
  • a remote operator may run system checks and/or input new parameters via communication with the controller (39).
  • An anemometer (42) may be included for measuring wind speed.
  • the nacelle (19) is able to rotate about the base (18) via a bushing/bearing mechanism (45), allowing the nacelle to act as a vane to maintain proper orientation with respect to incoming wind, which may abrogate the need for a conventional yaw drive.
  • the base (18) further includes a supporting member (23) extending from the base (18) to the rear end (21) of the nacelle (19).
  • the base (18) additionally includes auxiliary support members (24) extending from each side of the supporting member (23) to each side of the nacelle (19), the supporting member (23) and two auxiliary support members (24) forming a tripart vane which supports the nacelle (19) and reduces wind turbulence (i.e. linear flow) from the tower and adds structural stability.
  • the depicted wind turbine additionally includes a plurality of front louvres (25) and a plurality of back louvres (26), which may be activated to allow wind to pass through the interior of the nacelle (19), cooling the energy generation assembly (22) as needed.
  • the rear louvres (25) are located in an area of low wind speed and thus high pressure. Opening rear louvres (25) will allow wind to enter the nacelle (19).
  • Front louvres (25) are located in an area of high wind speed and thus low pressure. Wind exhausted from the nacelle (19) through the front louvres (25) may then be fed back into the blades for additional torque in addition to cooling of the energy generation assembly. Such cooling effect may reduce need for operation of conventional chiller apparatus.
  • the weight (27) of the wind turbine includes a platform (46) atop the weight, which may be used as a service elevator/hoist to access the nacelle (19).
  • the weight (27) may be lowered into a subsurface foundation (31) (see Figure 8A), and the platform (46) accessed by a user.
  • the weight (27) may then be raised toward the nacelle, where it may be received in a docking bay (44) portion of the nacelle (19).
  • the depicted embodiment includes a set of stay cables (32), see Figures 8A and 8B, stabilizing the base (18) tower.
  • the stay cables (32) may stabilize the turbine even in higher wind conditions, which may allow for more versatile operation, while reducing foundation structure (48) costs as compared with more elaborate/costly foundation structures.
  • helical piles (47) may be used to secure the stay cables (32) to the surface, although many other suitable anchoring systems may be used.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Wind Motors (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une pale pour une turbine, telle qu'une éolienne, la pale comprenant : une partie de pale principale présentant une surface faisant face au vent pour canaliser le vent reçu le long d'un trajet de plus en plus étroit qui sort de la pale dans une direction modifiée à une vitesse accrue ; une partie de bord d'attaque s'étendant à partir d'un bord supérieur de la surface faisant face au vent, ce qui permet de fournir une surface avant qui dirige un vent supplémentaire sur la surface faisant face au vent de la pale principale et de fournir une portance ; et une partie de bord de fuite s'étendant à partir d'un bord inférieur de la surface faisant face au vent, ce qui permet de fournir une barrière inférieure permettant d'empêcher une fuite de vent pendant la progression le long de la pale.
PCT/CA2018/050897 2017-07-25 2018-07-25 Éoliennes et pales Ceased WO2019018931A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA3088189A CA3088189A1 (fr) 2017-07-25 2018-07-25 Eoliennes et pales

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA2974440A CA2974440A1 (fr) 2017-07-25 2017-07-25 Eoliennes et pales
CA2,974,440 2017-07-25

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WO2019018931A1 true WO2019018931A1 (fr) 2019-01-31
WO2019018931A9 WO2019018931A9 (fr) 2019-02-28

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4617503A1 (fr) 2024-03-11 2025-09-17 Carrier Corporation Roue à aubes à angle de balayage arrière variable

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2021707A (en) * 1934-11-01 1935-11-19 Walter L Upson Fluid reaction device
US4632636A (en) * 1983-05-27 1986-12-30 Edward H. Smith Propeller with blades having regressive pitch
CA1266005A (fr) * 1984-02-07 1990-02-20 Louis Obidniak Soufflerie a rotor de type a impulsions
US5656865A (en) * 1995-09-20 1997-08-12 Evans; Franklin T. Wind conversion unit having cup shaped flow through blades and a centrifugal speed regulator
WO2005015009A1 (fr) * 2003-08-11 2005-02-17 Ntt Data Ex Techno Corporation Generateur de force motrice de force d'ecoulement de type helice et pale associee
US8747067B2 (en) * 2012-10-11 2014-06-10 Reno Barban Trillium wind turbine
CA2719144C (fr) * 2008-04-22 2016-06-21 Nheolis (Sarl) Pale pour appareil de generation d'energie, a partir d'un fluide, et appareil comprenant un rotor faisant application de telles pales

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2021707A (en) * 1934-11-01 1935-11-19 Walter L Upson Fluid reaction device
US4632636A (en) * 1983-05-27 1986-12-30 Edward H. Smith Propeller with blades having regressive pitch
CA1266005A (fr) * 1984-02-07 1990-02-20 Louis Obidniak Soufflerie a rotor de type a impulsions
US5656865A (en) * 1995-09-20 1997-08-12 Evans; Franklin T. Wind conversion unit having cup shaped flow through blades and a centrifugal speed regulator
WO2005015009A1 (fr) * 2003-08-11 2005-02-17 Ntt Data Ex Techno Corporation Generateur de force motrice de force d'ecoulement de type helice et pale associee
CA2719144C (fr) * 2008-04-22 2016-06-21 Nheolis (Sarl) Pale pour appareil de generation d'energie, a partir d'un fluide, et appareil comprenant un rotor faisant application de telles pales
US8747067B2 (en) * 2012-10-11 2014-06-10 Reno Barban Trillium wind turbine

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CA3088189A1 (fr) 2019-01-31
CA2974440A1 (fr) 2019-01-25

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