Patent ID: 8096750

Claim:
A turbine comprising: a) a pair of opposing end discs bounding the turbine at both ends, wherein the pair of opposing end discs is in concentric alignment with a central axis and wherein at least one opposing end disc is adapted for engaging with a generator; b) a plurality of blades that rotate in a single direction when exposed to fluid flow wherein: i) the plurality of blades extend between the pair of opposing end discs and are disposed evenly about the central axis, ii) wherein the rotating plurality of blades causes the pair of opposing end discs to rotate, iii) wherein the plurality of blades define a spiral wound trajectory around the central axis, the spiral wound trajectory having a variable radius along the length of the turbine such that a distance measured from the plurality of blades to the central axis is greater at the center of the turbine than at either end, and iv) wherein the plurality of blades further comprise an airfoil-shaped cross section having a non-zero angle of attack, which angle is defined by an intersection of the chord of the airfoil-shaped cross section and a tangential line abutting the same cross section and oriented in the direction of relative fluid flow; and c) at least one faired ring oriented parallel to the pair of opposing end discs and intersecting the plurality of blades, wherein the at least one faired ring is in concentric alignment with the central axis.