SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A VERTICAL AXIS WIND TURBINE

摘要

A system and method for a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) is described which can provide the basis for a new and improved wind turbine design suitable for a range of different power classes such as from 4 kilowatts to 10 megawatts. A vertical blade of chord length C is attached to a central hub via a main support strut of chord length C. The main support strut comprises two sections: a blade-support-section and a counterweight- support-section. Both the blade-support-section and the counterweight- support-section have a blunt leading edge and a tapered trailing edge with the profile reversing either side of the hub axis. Two control struts comprising aerodynamic profiles support the blade wherein one control strut connects to the upper surface of the main support strut and the other control strut connects to the lower surface of the main support strut hub. The main support strut and the control struts provide lift to the wind turbine and reduce drag. The vertical blade and the main support strut comprise an integrated differential strain gauge, which is linked to a central controller and provides real time data on the integrity of the blade and strut.