Concept first published here: December 7, 2023
What is a Variable Pitch Vertical Axis Wind Turbine?
Active optimal blade angle provides greater usage of wind power. The rotating blades can be divided into two sides: 1. Power (with the wind direction), Return (contrary to the wind direction). On the Power side, maximum blade-to-wind angle for rotational thrust is desired. On the Return side, minimum blade-to-wind angle resistance is desired.
The Concept
Thinking on how to make things work better is a regular activity for me. A few years back, I was looking into wind turbines, and the gears began to turn. I envisioned how the efficiency of the vertical axis turbine could be greatly improved (typically under 30%), if the blade angle could be positioned for max performance. Ok, got the blade optimized – but, How does the mechanism work? After burning up a few brain cells, a fairly simple solution emerged from the smoke.
The Design
The model that I show here is designed to be built (prototype) and combines off-the-shelf parts (mostly from McMaster.com), and custom parts, which a DYI gal/guy could create. Some will require help from a local machine shop and welding, unless they are included in your arsenal.
I am not showing the guts (mechanism inside the arms that adjust the blade) angle, at this time. I want to connect with those who are interested to build one of these, or really interested to know what makes it tick. The angle-adjusting mechanics are not difficult, or new. There are some older YouTube videos showing it in basic concept. It’s not really important to note, but for my personal acknowledgment, I had the idea before I saw it on YouTube – and was glad, being a confirmation of the concept.
Enhanced Efficiency
The key advantage of a variable pitch VAWT lies in its ability to optimize the blade angle for maximum efficiency. By adjusting the pitch, the turbine can effectively control the blade’s interaction with the wind, ensuring that it operates at the most efficient angle. This feature allows the VAWT to harness more power from the wind, resulting in increased energy production.
The variable pitch mechanism allows the VAWT to optimize power production by regulating the blade’s interaction with the wind. By reducing resistance on the side that moves into the wind, the turbine can minimize drag and improve overall efficiency. This combination of increased torque and reduced drag enables the variable pitch VAWT to generate more power, making it a valuable asset for renewable energy projects.
Evaluation
This design is mostly ready to be built and tested. Unfortunately, currently I do not have the time or location to take on that endeavor. It may be a year before I have the place to build and install one. If someone else wants to go for it, I can make the CAD model available. The only requirement would be to document the build and testing. It’s important for the world to know the efficiency. And is the extra complexity justified for greater output.
Conclusion
The advantages of a variable pitch vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) are clear. By allowing for the adjustment of the blade angle, a VAWT can optimize its efficiency and generate more power. These features make the variable pitch VAWT a highly efficient and reliable choice for renewable energy generation. With its ability to maximize energy production, the variable pitch VAWT is a valuable asset in the pursuit of sustainable and clean energy sources.
Wanted
A matching alternator/generator is needed to generate electricity. If you are, or know of, a manufacturer/supplier of the components needed to create the spark – I would like to hear from you.
