to the starting position. The researchers also proposed to conduct blade design analysis and to design a cogging torque free generator, but scaled back the project objectives due to design complications and cost concerns. The researchers conducted testing of the prototype using a commercially available Skystream 3.7 small turbine as a control. Although they collected power generation data for the control, technical difficulties prevented collection of data for the prototype. Consequently, they did not perform planned noise studies. If wind turbines could be designed to harvest wind power in Class 1 and 2 areas, the researchers estimated that has the potential to generate 5 to 20 percent more energy from its wind resource than is possible using current technology. Figure 13: Prototype Hub with PPC Devices Figure 14: Schematic Diagram of Blade Setting and Cam Groove Objectives The goal of this project was to determine the feasibility of designing small wind turbines that can passively pitch their blades for maximum energy production in all wind speed conditions while being environmentally and aesthetically appealing. The researchers established the following project objectives: Document design specifications. Fabricate and bench test a passive blade pitch control device for functional objectives and optimal blade setting with respect to wind speed. Fabricate blade test articles having the following leading edge configurations: straight, swept back, and swept forward. Conduct IEC norm strength and vibration tests. Fabricate a cogging torque free generator. Discuss the parameters to be sensed and recorded for power and noise performance evaluation with test engineers. Conduct tests and verify intermittent data to see whether any parameters are to be varied. Evaluate the performance of the prototype wind turbine with respect to: Annual energy production increase by 5 percent or better
to the starting position. The researchers also proposed to conduct blade design analysis and to design a cogging torque free generator, but scaled back the project objectives due to design complications and cost concerns. The researchers conducted testing of the prototype using a commercially available Skystream 3.7 small turbine as a control. Although they collected power generation data for the control, technical difficulties prevented collection of data for the prototype. Consequently, they did not perform planned noise studies. If wind turbines could be designed to harvest wind power in Class 1 and 2 areas, the researchers estimated that has the potential to generate 5 to 20 percent more energy from its wind resource than is possible using current technology. Figure 13: Prototype Hub with PPC Devices Figure 14: Schematic Diagram of Blade Setting and Cam Groove Objectives The goal of this project was to determine the feasibility of designing small wind turbines that can passively pitch their blades for maximum energy production in all wind speed conditions while being environmentally and aesthetically appealing. The researchers established the following project objectives: Document design specifications. Fabricate and bench test a passive blade pitch control device for functional objectives and optimal blade setting with respect to wind speed. Fabricate blade test articles having the following leading edge configurations: straight, swept back, and swept forward. Conduct IEC norm strength and vibration tests. Fabricate a cogging torque free generator. Discuss the parameters to be sensed and recorded for power and noise performance evaluation with test engineers. Conduct tests and verify intermittent data to see whether any parameters are to be varied. Evaluate the performance of the prototype wind turbine with respect to: Annual energy production increase by 5 percent or better
CEC-500-2013-036.docx