WIND TURBINE SYSTEM

A wind turbine system includes a stator structure where the stator structure includes a plurality of structural members and a top plate positioned at a top end of the stator structure. Collectively, the plurality of structural members, the top plate, and a generator housing positioned distal to the top plate define an interior volume within the stator structure. A turbine includes a drive shaft positioned along a central axis extending from the top plate to the generator housing. A plurality of rotors is positioned along the drive shaft, where each rotor of the plurality of rotors are separated from one or more adjacent rotors of the plurality of rotors along the central axis via one or more separator plates each defining a stability plane extending perpendicular to the central axis. Additionally, a generator is positioned in the generator housing.

BACKGROUND

Wind power is a readily available resource that is capable of being captured and converted into electricity. Equipment and systems utilized for capturing wind power are usually incorporated into large wind turbines located within a wind farm setting. These large wind turbines are generally over 200 feet in height and, due to the size, supply enough power to support a whole community of individuals. Because of the size of these wind turbines, failure of and damage to the wind turbines requires extensive time, energy, and monetary resources in order to maintain and repair.

The illustrated figures are only exemplary and are not intended to assert or imply any limitation with regard to the environment, architecture, design, or process in which different examples may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates generally to wind turbines, and more particularly to modular wind turbines. The term “modular” is used herein to describe a singular wind turbine system that is interconnectable to one or more other wind turbine systems in order to create a larger structure that increases an amount of energy that can be harvested from the wind at a specific location. The term “cut-in speed” is used herein to refer to a minimum amount of power (Watts) required by an electrical load attached to a wind turbine system relative to the speed of the fluid flowing through the system. It is noted that maximum system output of a wind turbine system is determined by the load capacity of a driveshaft, the driveshaft couplings, stator coil(s), EMF generated by the rotation of rotor(s), and any calibrated brake(s) incorporated into the system.

While the making and using of various embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present disclosure provides many applicable inventive concepts, which can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative and do not delimit the scope of the present disclosure. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation may be described in the present disclosure.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of components, properties such as molecular weight, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the present specification and associated claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the examples of the present invention. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claim, each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. It should be noted that when “about” is at the beginning of a numerical list, “about” modifies each number of the numerical list. Further, in some numerical listings of ranges some lower limits listed may be greater than some upper limits listed. One skilled in the art will recognize that the selected subset will require the selection of an upper limit in excess of the selected lower limit. Further, although voltage signals discussed herein are discussed as positive voltages, a negative voltage signal or differential voltage signal may be generated, used, or detected without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Presented herein is a wind turbine system. The wind turbine system includes a stator structure comprising a plurality of structural members and a top plate positioned at a top end of the stator structure, where the plurality of structural members, the top plate, and a generator housing positioned distal to the top plate define an interior volume within the stator structure. The wind turbine system further includes a turbine comprising a drive shaft positioned along a central axis extending from the top plate to the generator housing and a plurality of rotors positioned along the drive shaft, where each rotor of the plurality of rotors is separated from one or more adjacent rotors of the plurality of rotors along the central axis via one or more separator plates each defining a stability plane extending perpendicular to the central axis. Additionally, a generator is positioned in the generator housing.

Also presented herein is the wind turbine system as described above and further including an anemoscope affixed to the stator structure. A motor is rotationally affixed to each of the plurality of structural members comprising a respective one of the at least one baffle portion. A controller is electrically connected to the anemoscope and the motor, where the controller is configured to: receive wind direction data from the anemoscope and adjust, based on the wind direction data, a rotational output for the motor to position each of the at least one baffle portion at a deflection angle for deflecting a maximum amount of wind toward respective rotors of the plurality of rotors.

Also presented herein is the wind turbine system as described previously and further including a motor rotationally affixed to each of the plurality of structural members comprising a respective one of the at least one baffle portion. A controller is electrically connected to the generator and the motor, where the controller is configured to: receive rotation speed data from the generator and adjust, based on the rotation speed data, a rotational output for the motor to position each of the at least one baffle portion at a drag angle for decreasing a rotational speed of respective rotors of the plurality of rotors.

FIG.1is an illustration of a front view of a modular wind turbine system100in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Wind turbine system100, in certain embodiments, includes a rotation axis of one or more rotors124substantially parallel to a direction of airflow. In other embodiments, Wind turbine system100includes a stator structure110comprising a plurality of structural members111and a top plate112. As shown, the plurality of structural members111, the top plate112, and a generator housing116positioned distal to top plate112define an interior volume118within stator structure110. A turbine120is positionable within interior volume118and includes a drive shaft120positioned along a central (rotation) axis extending from the top plate112to the generator housing116. Turbine120includes a drive shaft122positioned along a central axis extending from top plate112to generator housing116. Turbine120further includes a plurality of rotors124positioned along drive shaft120, where each rotor124of the plurality of rotors124is separated from one or more adjacent rotors124of the plurality of rotors124along the central axis via one or more separator plates126each defining a stability plane extending perpendicular to the central axis. As further shown, sets (of four) of the plurality of structural members111are positioned adjacent each rotor124and are positioned parallel to the central axis. The sets of structural members111define the interior space118where each rotor124may be positioned. Generator housing116, as shown, is configured to receive a generator117(shown positioned within generator housing116). In order to connect structural members111to generator housing116, generator housing116may include a cavity119for each of the structural members111to be positioned within. In the embodiment shown, the cavities and structural members111are form-fitting. In embodiments, the rotation axis may be the central axis.

It is noted that structural members111may span the entire length of stator structure110(from generator housing116to top plate112). In this configuration, each of the structural members111comprise a frame member115that extends from cavity119to top plate112and defines an interior structure of structural members111. Each of the structural members further include, in the embodiment shown, multiple shroud members114that are positioned over structural members111and extend between any of: generator housing116and a separator plate126, a separator plate126and another separator plate126, and a separator plate126and top plate112. In an embodiment in which turbine120includes a single rotor124, frame members115and shroud members114may both extend from a generator housing116to a top plate112.

FIG.2Ais an illustration of a front view of a pair of modular wind turbine systems100affixed to one another and forming a wind turbine assembly200in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, each of the wind turbine systems100may be affixed to each other via one or more sets of male attachment segments147located at attachment edges (seeFIG.2B) of separator plates126of one of the wind turbine systems100positioned within corresponding female attachment segments148(seeFIG.2B) located at attachment edges of separator plates126of the other of the wind turbine systems100. By utilizing this configuration, the wind turbine systems100may be removably affixable to one another along one or more stability planes (that align with separator plates126and male/female attachment segments147,148). As a result, any number of wind turbine systems100can be affixed to one another in order to maximize a mechanical/electrical energetic output in an efficient space. As shown inFIG.2B, three adjacent separator plates126are shown being attached/attachable to one another via the male and female attachment segments147,148. Female and male end caps135,136are attached to any exposed male and female attachment segments147,148.

It is noted that each female attachment segment148of each separator plate126includes a square orifice, while each male attachment segment147of each separator plate126includes a circular orifice surrounded by a square-shaped divot. The size of the square orifices and the circular orifices ensure that frame members115(which, in embodiments, are cylindrical in nature) are able to pass through separator plates126. On the other hand, the size of the square orifices and the square-shaped divots ensure that flanged ends of shroud members114(seeFIGS.4A and4B) fit securely to separator plates126so that shroud members114and separator plates126effectively define interior volumes118for rotors124and so that separator plates126do not collapse onto one another.

FIG.3Ais an illustration of a deconstructed view of a drive shaft attachment mechanism129of a modular wind turbine system100in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, drive shaft attachment mechanism129is shown separated from a rotor124(shown affixed to/integrated with rotor124inFIGS.4A and5B) and includes a female attachment segment123and a male attachment segment125that forms a buckle configuration for securing a drive shaft compression fitting127. When in use, drive shaft compression fitting127is positioned within male and female attachment segments125,123as prongs128are pushed into female attachment segment123. Once male and female attachment segments125,123are connected, female attachment segment123compresses prongs128inward toward drive shaft compression fitting127, where portions of prongs128are lodged into fitting orifice137and create additional securement for drive shaft compression fitting127. Slits are defined within female attachment segment123, male attachment segment125, and drive shaft compression fitting127in order to provide flexibility and to allow drive shaft120to be positioned within drive shaft compression fitting127. As shown, inFIG.3B, drive shaft attachment mechanism129is shown positioned adjacent generator housing116. In order to avoid having a rotor fall into generator housing116, a generator cap121is affixed to generator housing116and, as shown, includes a structure that crosses a generator orifice in generator housing116where generator117is housed. In embodiments, generator cap121may be at least one of: integral with generator housing116and affixed to generator housing116as a separate piece.

FIG.4Ais an illustration of a deconstructed view of a portion of a modular wind turbine system100in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, one end of drive shaft122is positionable in a circular indentation positioned in the middle of separator plate126. Ring-shaped first and second magnets131,133are positioned on drive shaft122and adjacent the circular indentation with opposing poles of magnets131,133facing each other (causing repulsion). This may provide a “levitation” effect to drive shaft compression fitting127and rotor124so that rotor124may rotate more smoothly around drive shaft122. In an embodiment, first and second magnets131,133are positioned adjacent top and bottom ends to provide a “levitation” effect to both ends of rotor124; this configuration also equally distributes rotor124along drive shaft122and between two of the one or more stability planes. As further shown, a frame member115is positionable within/through one of male/female attachment segments147,148and is configured to provide rigidity to shroud member114and to wind turbine system100as a whole. Shroud member114includes a baffle portion140that extends the length of shroud member114and may be utilized to direct airflow toward or away from a rotor124and/or reduce a speed of a rotor124via friction. In embodiments, structural member114is rotatable in order to position baffle portion140to contact an adjacent rotor124; in additional embodiments, wind turbine system100includes multiple rotatable structural members114that may be configured to position multiple baffle portions140in contact with multiple adjacent rotors124. As further shown inFIG.4B, baffle portion140extends an entire length of shroud member114and is positioned on a single side of shroud member114. Baffle portion140includes a first edge141that is configured to direct airflow toward a rotor124while a second, opposing edge142is configured to direct airflow away from rotor124. Depending on the orientation of structural member114, the functionality of each edge141,142may vary. In embodiments, baffle portion140comprises at least one of rubber or silicone. In other embodiments, baffle portion140comprises a plastic material such as, but not limited to: TPU and TPC.

It is noted that, as shown, top ends and bottom ends of shroud member114include flanged ends that are configured to securely fit into square orifices and square-shaped divots of male and female attachment segments147,148.

FIG.4Cis an illustration of a perspective view of a shroud member114including an alternative baffle portion160in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, alternative baffle portion160, similarly to baffle portion140ofFIG.4B, extends an entire length of shroud member114and is positioned on a single side of shroud member114. Alternative baffle portion160also similarly includes a first edge161that is configured to direct airflow toward a rotor124while a second, opposing edge162is configured to direct airflow away from rotor124. Second edge162additionally includes an extended edge163that extends from and along the curvature of second edge162. A curved slot164and protrusion165are positioned within second edge162for receiving a drive shaft compression fitting127. In this embodiment, when alternative baffle portion160is positioned adjacent a rotor124, second edge162and extended edge163sit just outside of the rotation path of rotor124, while drive shaft compression fitting127sits within the rotation path of rotor124and acts as a braking device for rotor124(by reducing a rotation speed of rotor124via friction) to avoid overloading generator117. As shown inFIG.4Dand when in use, drive shaft compression fitting127is partially positioned within slot164. A hooked end166of a protrusion165positioned adjacent slot164extends into a fitting orifice137of compression fitting127in order to keep compression fitting127in place.

FIG.5Ais an illustration of a deconstructed view of a rotor124in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, a pair of rotor blade sections (female rotor blade section and male rotor blade section145,146) are disassembled from one another. Female and male rotor blade sections145,146each include a helical configuration having a pair of helical blades that together, are configured as a Ugrinsky wind turbine (rotor124). In other embodiments, rotor124may comprise a geometry other than a Ugrinsky wind turbine and may include, but is not limited to: Benesh; Bach; and modified versions of the Ugrinsky, Benesh, and Bach geometries. Blade sections145,146are attachable to one another (and to drive shaft122) via female/male attachment segments123,125and drive shaft compression fitting127(similar to embodiments discussed previously). In order to combine female and male rotor blade sections145,146, one of the blade sections145,146is wound around the other of the blade sections145,146until top and bottom female and male attachment segments123,125are aligned with and attachable to one another.

As shown inFIG.5B, female rotor blade section145and male rotor blade section146are combined to form a single rotor124. The sections145,146are affixed at upper and lower alternative drive shaft attachment mechanisms130(conceptually similar to drive shaft attachment mechanism129). In order to form upper drive shaft attachment mechanism130, drive shaft compression mechanism127(attached to drive shaft122) is positioned within an upper male attachment segment139and an upper female attachment segment138. Similarly to drive shaft attachment mechanism129, prongs of upper male attachment segment139are pushed into the body of upper female attachment segment138(collectively utilized as a buckle configuration) while drive shaft compression fitting127is positioned between upper male and female attachment segments139,138. Once upper male and female attachment segments139,138are connected, upper female attachment segment138compresses upper male attachment segment139inward toward drive shaft compression fitting127, where the compression force of upper female attachment segment138acting upon upper male attachment segment139provides additional securement to drive shaft compression fitting127. It is noted that lower male and female attachment segments139,138are affixable in the same way as described above to form lower alternative drive shaft attachment mechanism130.

FIG.6Ais an illustration of a deconstructed view of a generator housing116in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, generator housing116includes a stator shell113configured to receive stator slots of a stator134. A stator base153is configured to receive a rotor132and comprises a circumference smaller than that of stator shell113so that when stator slots154are positioned within stator shell113, spaces are formed between adjacent stator slots154. These spaces are shown inFIG.6Band form diversion manifolds111that are utilized as alternate flow paths for accumulated airflow that is built up due to back pressure. As drive shaft122rotates due to airflow, rotor132, which is attached to drive shaft122, is subsequently rotated within stator134, converting the mechanical rotational energy into electrical energy. This electrical energy, in embodiments, may be transferred/supplied to one or more batteries (not depicted) for storage.

In an embodiment, when stator134is placed within stator shell113, diversion manifolds111are formed between the two elements. In this configuration, diversion manifolds111provide alternate flow paths that transport air accumulated within stator structure110that typically causes back pressure (caused by any wind not drawn into the stator structure110).

FIG.7Ais an illustration of a partial cutaway view of a drive shaft coupler167affixed to multiple drive shafts122in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, drive shaft coupler167is configured to bind two non-contiguous drive shafts122together in order to provide a less variable and more controlled amount of torque and power to one or more generators (not depicted) associated with a wind turbine system. This ultimately leads to a mitigation of overspeed conditions for a wind turbine system, avoiding burnout of one or more associated generators. Drive shaft coupler167includes multiple slots168for receiving one or more drive shaft compression fittings127. As shown, ends of the drive shafts122may be positioned in separate slots168/drive shaft compression fittings127while in other embodiments, ends may be positioned in a single slot168/drive shaft compression fitting127. In order to increase the binding strength of drive shafts122, multiple drive shaft compression fittings127may be affixed to each of the drive shafts122. For example, drive shaft coupler167, as shown, includes five slots168configured to receive up to five drive shaft compression fittings127. In embodiments, drive shaft bonding strength may vary and may be dependent upon multiple factors that include, but are not limited to: the number of drive shaft compression fittings127being utilized within drive shaft coupler167and the relative distance between drive shaft compression fittings127within drive shaft coupler167.

In order to remove and attach driveshaft coupler167to one or more drive shafts122, driveshaft coupler167may be separable into two separate halves, which may be affixed/secured to one another and the one or more drive shafts122via attachment members such as, for example, nuts and bolts. As further shown inFIG.7B, driveshaft coupler167is securely affixed to two drive shafts122in between two alternative drive shaft attachment mechanism130of a single rotor124.

FIG.8Ais an illustration of a partial cutaway view of a rotor sync device171affixed to a rotor172in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Rotor sync device171, when affixed to two separate (and opposing) rotors172, doubles the length of the stator coils that the rotors' magnets' emitted EMF fields pass over, leading to a synchronization of the EMF fields as they pass over the turns in the stator coils cohesively, which doubles the voltage produced (in comparison to two individual, non-synched rotors). As shown, an alternative generator housing180includes a base181(similar in structure to top plate112and separator plate126) and a casing182(similar internal structure to generator housing116) in which rotor132and stator134are housed. As further shown, rotor sync device171includes an elongated body173having first and second ends including fingers175(as depicted, a pair of fingers175on each end). Each pair of fingers175are removably affixable to a sleeve174via attachment mechanisms such as, for example, nuts and bolts. Sleeve174includes a hollow interior for receiving fingers175as well as two opposing elongated protrusions176extending the length of sleeve174. Elongated protrusions176are configured to slide into opposing slots177defined within rotor132in order to stabilize rotor sync device171. As further shown inFIG.8B, rotor sync device171is shown affixed to two opposing sleeves174. It is noted that in embodiments, rotor sync device171, instead of being constructed as two separate halves (as shown, bisected along the length of rotor sync device171), rotor sync device171may be constructed as a unitary body.

FIG.8Cis an illustration of a perspective view of an alternative wind turbine system800including a rotor sync device171positioned between two generators117in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, rotors124are affixed, via drive shafts122, to generators117positioned in opposing fashion within wind turbine system800. Rotor sync device171is positioned between the two generators117so that rotors124/generators117/drive shafts122are all synced to a single rotational speed. Generators117are each positioned within respective alternative generator housings180that include a space for generators117as well as an associated base configuration that is similar in structure/design as separator plates126(thus providing similar functionality as separator plates126).

FIG.9Ais an illustration of a perspective view of a utility module180in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, utility module190is utilized as a reinforcement structure for embodiments of a wind turbine system and is positioned between shroud members114. Utility module190includes a plurality of channels182extending along the length of utility module190. Channels182, in one embodiment, may be utilized as wiring ducts, where the perpendicular orifices184are positioned to deliver wiring between channels182and generators117associated with wind turbine system900(as shown, positioned within alternative generator housing180inFIG.9B). In another embodiment, channels182and perpendicular orifices184may be utilized as irrigation ducting for de-icing operations. In this embodiment, tubing carrying warm water may be positioned within channels182, where ends of the tubing may be affixed to spray devices positioned within the perpendicular orifices184that may spray the warm water onto portions of a wind turbine system that is underperforming due to freezing.

FIG.9Bis an illustration of a perspective view of a utility module190incorporated into an alternative wind turbine system900in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, utility module190is positioned along a length of wind turbine system900. In order to secure utility module190to wind turbine system900, a flange186(located on each end of utility module190) is insertable within a rectangular space defined between paired male/female attachment segments147,148of a separator plate126and either an adjacent pair male/female attachment segments147,148or a male/female end cap136,135.

Referring now toFIG.10, illustrated is a computing machine1000and a system applications module990, in accordance with example embodiments. The computing machine1000can correspond to any of the various computers, mobile devices, laptop computers, Internet of Things (IoT), servers, embedded systems, or computing systems presented herein. The module1090can comprise one or more hardware or software elements, e.g. other OS application and user and kernel space applications, designed to facilitate the computing machine1000in performing the various methods and processing functions presented herein. The computing machine1000can include various internal or attached components such as a processor1010, system bus1020, system memory1030, storage media1040, input/output interface1050, a network interface1060for communicating with a network1070, e.g. cellular/GPS, Bluetooth, WIFI, or Devicenet, EtherCAT, Analog, RS485, etc., and one or more sensors1080.

The computing machines can be implemented as a conventional computer system, an embedded controller, a laptop, a server, a mobile device, a smartphone, a wearable computer, a customized machine, any other hardware platform, or any combination or multiplicity thereof. The computing machines can be a distributed system configured to function using multiple computing machines interconnected via a data network or bus system.

Processor1010can be designed to execute code instructions in order to perform the operations and functionality described herein, manage request flow and address mappings, and to perform calculations and generate commands. Processor1010can be configured to monitor and control the operation of the components in the computing machines. Processor1010can be a general purpose processor, a processor core, a multiprocessor, a reconfigurable processor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (“DSP”), an application specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), a controller, a state machine, gated logic, discrete hardware components, any other processing unit, or any combination or multiplicity thereof. Processor1010can be a single processing unit, multiple processing units, a single processing core, multiple processing cores, special purpose processing cores, co-processors, or any combination thereof. According to certain embodiments, processor1010along with other components of computing machine1000can be a software based or hardware based virtualized computing machine executing within one or more other computing machines.

The system memory1030can include non-volatile memories such as read-only memory (“ROM”), programmable read-only memory (“PROM”), erasable programmable read- only memory (“EPROM”), flash memory, or any other device capable of storing program instructions or data with or without applied power. The system memory1030can also include volatile memories such as random access memory (“RAM”), static random access memory (“SRAM”), dynamic random access memory (“DRAM”), and synchronous dynamic random access memory (“SDRAM”). Other types of RAM also can be used to implement the system memory1030. The system memory1030can be implemented using a single memory module or multiple memory modules. While the system memory1030is depicted as being part of the computing machine, one skilled in the art will recognize that the system memory1030can be separate from the computing machine1000without departing from the scope of the subject technology. It should also be appreciated that the system memory1030can include, or operate in conjunction with, a non-volatile storage device such as the storage media1040.

The storage media1040can include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a compact disc read-only memory (“CD-ROM”), a digital versatile disc (“DVD”), a Blu-ray disc, a magnetic tape, a flash memory, other non-volatile memory device, a solid state drive (“SSD”), any magnetic storage device, any optical storage device, any electrical storage device, any semiconductor storage device, any physical-based storage device, any other data storage device, or any combination or multiplicity thereof. The storage media1040can store one or more operating systems, application programs and program modules, data, or any other information. The storage media1040can be part of, or connected to, the computing machine. The storage media1040can also be part of one or more other computing machines that are in communication with the computing machine such as servers, database servers, cloud storage, network attached storage, and so forth.

The applications module1090and other OS application modules can comprise one or more hardware or software elements configured to facilitate the computing machine with performing the various methods and processing functions presented herein. The applications module1090and other OS application modules can include one or more algorithms or sequences of instructions stored as software or firmware in association with the system memory1030, the storage media1040or both. The storage media1040can therefore represent examples of machine or computer readable media on which instructions or code can be stored for execution by the processor1010. Machine or computer readable media can generally refer to any medium or media used to provide instructions to the processor1010. Such machine or computer readable media associated with the applications module1090and other OS application modules can comprise a computer software product. It should be appreciated that a computer software product comprising the applications module1090and other OS application modules can also be associated with one or more processes or methods for delivering the applications module1090and other OS application modules to the computing machine via a network, any signal-bearing medium, or any other communication or delivery technology. The applications module1090and other OS application modules can also comprise hardware circuits or information for configuring hardware circuits such as microcode or configuration information for an FPGA or other PLD. In one exemplary embodiment, applications module1090and other OS application modules can include algorithms capable of performing the functional operations described by the flow charts (modes of operation) computer systems presented herein.

The input/output (“I/O”) interface1050can be configured to couple to one or more external devices, to receive data from the one or more external devices, and to send data to the one or more external devices. Such external devices along with the various internal devices can also be known as peripheral devices. The I/O interface1050can include both electrical and physical connections for coupling the various peripheral devices to the computing machine or the processor1010. The I/O interface1050can be configured to communicate data, addresses, and control signals between the peripheral devices, the computing machine, or the processor1010. The I/O interface1050can be configured to implement any standard interface, such as small computer system interface (“SCSI”), serial-attached SCSI (“SAS”), fiber channel, peripheral component interconnect (“PCI”), PCI express (PCIe), serial bus, parallel bus, advanced technology attached (“ATA”), serial ATA (“SATA”), universal serial bus (“USB”), Thunderbolt, FireWire, various video buses, and the like. The I/O interface1050can be configured to implement only one interface or bus technology. Alternatively, the I/O interface1050can be configured to implement multiple interfaces or bus technologies. The I/O interface1050can be configured as part of, all of, or to operate in conjunction with, the system bus1020. The I/O interface1050can include one or more buffers for buffering transmissions between one or more external devices, internal devices, the computing machine, or the processor1020.

The computing machine1000can operate in a networked environment using logical connections through the NIC1060to one or more other systems or computing machines across a network. The network can include wide area networks (WAN), local area networks (LAN), intranets, the Internet, wireless access networks, wired networks, mobile networks, telephone networks, optical networks, or combinations thereof. The network can be packet switched, circuit switched, of any topology, and can use any communication protocol. Communication links within the network can involve various digital or an analog communication media such as fiber optic cables, free-space optics, waveguides, electrical conductors, wireless links, antennas, radio-frequency communications, and so forth.

The one or more sensors1080can be a position sensor and pressure sensors. The pressure sensor can be an Absolute Pressure (P) sensor or a Differential Pressure (DP) sensor. The position sensor can be a capacitive, optical, strain gauge, or magnetic sensor. The sensors1080can be traditional sensors or semiconductor based sensors.

The processor1010can be connected to the other elements of the computing machine or the various peripherals discussed herein through the system bus1020. It should be appreciated that the system bus1020can be within the processor1010, outside the processor1010, or both. According to some embodiments, any of the processors1010, the other elements of the computing machine, or the various peripherals discussed herein can be integrated into a single device such as a system on chip (“SOC”), system on package (“SOP”), or ASIC device.

FIG.11is an illustration of a diagrammatic view of a modular wind turbine system1100including one or more baffle portions1140for deflecting airflow toward a plurality of rotors1124in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Controller1164may comprise logic, circuitry, memory, and one or more processing elements (processors). Although a general controller is illustrated in this specific example, it is to be understood that controller1164is but one of many potential controllers as will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, in some embodiments, controller1164may be a lead-lag controller, a gain-lead-lag controller (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,962,164 incorporated in its entirety by reference herein), a PID controller, or any other controller sufficient for the application. Controller1164may be implemented as either hardware or firmware. Controller1164is configured to control the position of one or more baffle portions1140affixed to wind turbine system1100in accordance with an airflow reading indicating a wind speed and/or wind direction from anemoscope1111as well as an orientation reading from gyroscope1166affixed to the one or more baffle portions1140. For instance, in one embodiment, controller1164receives a direction of airflow (wind) from anemoscope1111and orientation data for the one or more baffle portions1140from one or more gyroscopes1166affixed to each of the baffle portions1140. Controller1164uses the received information to convert the airflow direction data and the orientation data into one or more signals indicative of mechanical outputs/rotational outputs of the motors1162.

As shown, an anemoscope1111is affixed to stator structure1110/wind turbine system1100at a position/orientation where anemoscope1111can collect wind (airflow) direction data. A motor1162is rotationally affixed to each of the plurality of structural members (seeFIG.1) of stator structure1110that include a baffle portion1140. In embodiments, each motor1162may be affixed to either of a structural member or an adjacent separator plate/top plate/generator housing (seeFIG.1). Additionally, a gyroscope1166is affixed to each of the baffle portions1140.

Controller1164electrically connected to anemoscope1011and motor1162is configured to: receive wind direction data from anemoscope1164and receive orientation data from gyroscopes1166. Further, based on the wind direction data and the orientation data, controller1164is configured to adjust a rotational output for motor1162to position each of the baffle portions1140at a deflection angle for deflecting a maximum amount of wind toward respective rotors1124of the plurality of rotors1124.

FIG.12is an illustration of a diagrammatic view of a modular wind turbine system1200including one or more baffle portions for decreasing rotational speeds of a plurality of rotors in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that controller1164described previously may be utilized in the current embodiment. Controller1164, in this embodiment, is configured to control the position of one or more baffle portions1240affixed to wind turbine system1200in accordance with rotation speed data of a generator1217. For instance, in one embodiment, controller1164receives a rotation speed from generator1217. Controller1164uses the received information to convert the rotation speed data into one or more signals indicative of mechanical outputs/rotational outputs of the motors1262.

As shown, a motor1262is rotationally affixed to each of the plurality of structural members (seeFIG.1) of stator structure1210that include a baffle portion1240. In embodiments, each motor1262may be affixed to either of a structural member or an adjacent separator plate/top plate/generator housing (seeFIG.1). Controller1164electrically connected to generator1217and motor1262is configured to: receive rotation speed data from generator1217and adjust, based on the rotation speed data, a rotational output for motor1262to position each of the baffle portions1240at a drag angle for decreasing a rotational speed of respective rotors1224of the plurality of rotors1224.

It is noted that in regard to systems1100,1200, in embodiments, motors1162,1262may be affixed to a side of shroud members114of stator structures1110,1210. Motors1162,1262may include a belt drive (not depicted) that is wrapped around a driving pulley of motors1162,1262and around shroud members114in order to rotate shroud members114when motors1162,1262are turned on. In order to more easily turn shroud members114, the portion of shroud member114where the belt drive is wrapped around may be cylindrical (as opposed to rectangular). Additionally, in order for shroud members114to rotate, flanged ends143(which, as depicted, are square-shaped) may be cylindrical in shape with a diameter the same as the square-shaped flanged ends143so that shroud members114may freely rotate within male/female attachment segments147/148of separator plates126.

FIG.13is an illustration of a flowchart embodying a method1300for manufacturing a wind turbine system (such as, for example, wind turbine system100) in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, method1300is described using elements from any of the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, elements may include additional details, features, elements, or embodiments not presented below but presented within other disclosed embodiments.

At block1310, a drive shaft is affixed to a stator of a generator, wherein the drive shaft is rotatable with the stator.

At block1320, the generator is encapsulated in a generator housing, where the generator housing comprising a plurality of cavities positioned on at least one side of the generator housing and an orifice for positioning the drive shaft therebetween.

At block1330, a frame member is positioned in each of the plurality of cavities, where each of the plurality of frame members extend outward from the generator housing.

At block1340, a pair of opposing magnets (like poles of each magnet facing one another) are positioned along the drive shaft.

At block1350, a shroud member is fitted over each of the plurality of frame members, where a first end of each of the plurality of shroud members are affixed to the generator housing and a second end of each of the plurality of shroud members are exposed.

At block1360, a separator plate is affixed to each of the plurality of second ends.

At block1370, a bottom end of a rotor and a top end of the rotor is affixed to the drive shaft, wherein the bottom end is positioned adjacent the pair of opposing magnets.

In relation to method1300, it is noted that the assembly/manufacturing of wind turbine system100may be performed without any additional hardware or extraneous attachment elements (such as, for example, screws).

In an embodiment of method1300, an additional step includes: positioning an additional pair of opposing magnets along the drive shaft prior to affixing the separator plate, where the additional pair of opposing magnets are positioned adjacent the top end of the rotor opposite the pair of opposing magnets.

In an embodiment of method1300, the step of affixing a bottom end of a rotor and a top end of the rotor to the drive shaft is performed prior to one or both steps of: affixing a separator plate to each of the plurality of second ends and fitting a shroud member over each of the plurality of frame members.

In an embodiment of method1300, an additional step includes: fitting an additional plurality of shroud members over each of the plurality of frame members, affixing first ends of the additional plurality of shroud members to the separator plate, affixing an additional separator plate to the second ends of the additional plurality of shroud members, and affixing a bottom end and top end of an additional rotor to the drive shaft. This additional step may be repeated more than once in additional embodiments.

In an embodiment, drive shaft122is not longer than four feet in length.

In an embodiment, a generator of any of the disclosed embodiments may be electrically connected to a battery or other electricity storage device in order to store the electricity produced from the rotors.

In an embodiment, any device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy may be utilized in place of a generator and may include, but is not limited to: an alternator.

In embodiments, any of the disclosed wind turbine systems may be utilized in conjunction with fluids other than air/wind and may include, but are not limited to: water (within, for example, the ocean, rivers, streams, etc.), waste steam, and other vented gases from extraneous processes.

In embodiments, any of the disclosed wind turbine systems may be utilized either vertically or horizontally (in relation to the ground or a surface that the wind turbine system is positioned on). In further embodiments, any of the disclosed wind turbine systems may be utilized at an angle (that is not vertical or horizontal).

In embodiments, any of the disclosed wind turbine systems may comprise a generator housing, rotors, shroud members, and separator plates that all comprise a plastic material. By virtue of this feature, a lightweight and efficient wind turbine system is created.

In embodiments, wind turbine system may comprise a cut-in speed of 0.1 m/s or less. This low cut-in speed (understood to be low relative to the turbine industry as a whole) results from the combination of embodying: a single point of parasitic friction (ball bearing in stator134of generator117) and light-weight components. By virtue of this low cut-in speed, electrical output from the wind turbine system in the long run can be greatly increased by providing electrical power in a wider range of speeds. Additionally, wind turbine system may also embody this low cut-in speed when utilized with fluids other than air/wind such as, for example, water.

In general, a software system is a system that operates on a processor to perform predetermined functions in response to predetermined data fields. For example, a system can be defined by the function it performs and the data fields that it performs the function on. As used herein, a NAME system, where NAME is typically the name of the general function that is performed by the system, refers to a software system that is configured to operate on a processor and to perform the disclosed function on the disclosed data fields. Unless a specific algorithm is disclosed, then any suitable algorithm that would be known to one of skill in the art for performing the function using the associated data fields is contemplated as falling within the scope of the disclosure. For example, a message system that generates a message that includes a sender address field, a recipient address field and a message field would encompass software operating on a processor that can obtain the sender address field, recipient address field and message field from a suitable system or device of the processor, such as a buffer device or buffer system, can assemble the sender address field, recipient address field and message field into a suitable electronic message format (such as an electronic mail message, a TCP/IP message or any other suitable message format that has a sender address field, a recipient address field and message field), and can transmit the electronic message using electronic messaging systems and devices of the processor over a communications medium, such as a network. One of ordinary skill in the art would be able to provide the specific coding for a specific application based on the foregoing disclosure, which is intended to set forth exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and not to provide a tutorial for someone having less than ordinary skill in the art, such as someone who is unfamiliar with programming or processors in a suitable programming language. A specific algorithm for performing a function can be provided in a flow chart form or in other suitable formats, where the data fields and associated functions can be set forth in an exemplary order of operations, where the order can be rearranged as suitable and is not intended to be limiting unless explicitly stated to be limiting.

The above-disclosed embodiments have been presented for purposes of illustration and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the disclosure, but the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the forms disclosed. Many insubstantial modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The scope of the claims is intended to broadly cover the disclosed embodiments and any such modification. Further, the following clauses represent additional embodiments of the disclosure and should be considered within the scope of the disclosure:Clause 1, a wind turbine system, comprising: a stator structure, the stator structure comprising a plurality of structural members and a top plate positioned at a top end of the stator structure, wherein the plurality of structural members, the top plate, and a generator housing positioned distal to the top plate define an interior volume within the stator structure; a turbine, comprising: a drive shaft positioned along a central axis extending from the top plate to the generator housing; and a plurality of rotors positioned along the drive shaft, each rotor of the plurality of rotors separated from one or more adjacent rotors of the plurality of rotors along the central axis via one or more separator plates each defining a stability plane extending perpendicular to the central axis; and a generator positioned in the generator housing.Clause 2, the system of Clause 1, wherein each of the one or more separator plates comprise one or more attachment edges each having one or more attachment segments.Clause 3, the system of Clause 2, further comprising at least one additional wind turbine system each removably affixable to the wind turbine system along at least one of the one or more stability planes, the wind turbine system and the at least one additional wind turbine system removably affixable via engagement of at least one of the one or more attachment segments to at least one of one or more attachment segments of each of the at least one additional wind turbine system.Clause 4, the system of Clause 3, wherein the wind turbine system and each of the at least one additional wind turbine system share at least one structural member of the plurality of structural members.Clause 5, the system of Clause 3, wherein each of the wind turbine system and the at least one additional wind turbine system supply electrical energy to a battery.Clause 6, the system of Clause 1, wherein each rotor of the plurality of rotors comprises a pair of magnets having a first magnet and a second magnet positioned at respective top ends and bottom ends of each rotor of the plurality of rotors, further wherein each pair of the pair of magnets equally distributes each rotor of the plurality of rotors along the drive shaft and between two of the one or more stability planes.Clause 7, the system of Clause 1, further comprising a set of the plurality of structural members positioned adjacent each rotor of the plurality of rotors, wherein the plurality of structural members is positioned parallel to the central axis.Clause 8, the system of Clause 7, wherein at least one of the plurality of structural members comprises a baffle portion configured to direct airflow toward or away from a respective rotor of the plurality of rotors.Clause 9, the system of Clause 8 wherein at least one baffle portion comprises a braking device affixed to an edge of each of the at least one baffle portion and is positioned within a rotation path of at least one of the plurality of rotors to reduce a rotation speed of at least one of the plurality of rotors via friction.Clause 10, the system of Clause 8, wherein at least one of the plurality of structural members is rotatable to provide contact between the at least one baffle portion and respective rotors of the plurality of rotors.Clause 11, the system of Clause 8, wherein the at least one baffle portion comprises rubber, silicone, TPU, or TPC.Clause 12, the system of Clause 10, further comprising: an anemoscope affixed to the stator structure; a motor rotationally affixed to each of the plurality of structural members comprising a respective one of the at least one baffle portion; a gyroscope affixed to each of the at least one baffle portion; and a controller electrically connected to the anemoscope and the motor, the controller configured to: receive wind direction data from the anemoscope; receive orientation data from the at least one gyroscope; and adjust, based on the wind direction data and the orientation data, a rotational output for the motor to position each of the at least one baffle portion at a deflection angle for deflecting a maximum amount of wind toward respective rotors of the plurality of rotors.Clause 13, the system of Clause 10, further comprising: a motor rotationally affixed to each of the plurality of structural members comprising a respective one of the at least one baffle portion; and a controller electrically connected to the generator and the motor, the controller configured to: receive rotation speed data from the generator; and adjust, based on the rotation speed data, a rotational output for the motor to position each of the at least one baffle portion at a drag angle for decreasing a rotational speed of respective rotors of the plurality of rotors.Clause 14, the system of Clause 1, wherein each rotor of the plurality of rotors comprises a helical configuration having a pair of helical blades.Clause 15, the system of Clause 14, wherein the pair of helical blades are affixed to the drive shaft via a compression fitting.Clause 16, the system of Clause 1, wherein the generator further comprises a stator shell positioned within the generator housing.Clause 17, the system of Clause 16, further comprising a back pressure regulator positioned in the generator housing, the back pressure regulator configured to generate a pressure differential within air diversion manifolds defined between the stator shell and a generator stator.Clause 18, the system of Clause 1, wherein the drive shaft is not longer than four feet in length.Clause 19, the system of Clause 1, wherein the wind turbine system comprises a cut-in speed of 0.1 m/s or less.Clause 20, the system of Clause 1, wherein a manufacturing process of the wind turbine system is performed without extraneous attachment elements.