AirAid - an alternative for harnessing wind energy using venturi effect for low-wind regimes

A new concept in wind energy harnessing is conceived which delivers a significantly higher output and outperforms traditional wind turbines of the same rotor size and design characteristics. The most innovative feature of this concept is that it captures wind at certain speeds but delivers it to the rotor at much higher speeds, increasing the power available at the rotor. Additionally, the requirement of classic, tower mounted turbines is eschewed, mitigating the need for a cumbersome installation of the turbine-generator system at great heights and reducing installation, operation and maintenance costs. Other factors that have undermined the wind industry such as radar impact, aesthetics etc., are addressed. The concept funnels wind through a venturi section that naturally accelerates its flow, increasing a given input velocity of 2 m/s to an average velocity of 10.3 m/s at the rotor, giving a speed ratio of over 5. The CFD analysis is performed on COMSOL using a standard laminar flow model closures with steady flow conditions. The CFD results revealed a non-turbulent velocity distribution near the rotor (no vortex formation), with a minimal variation in the velocity at the rotor’s cross section. This shows that because of increased wind velocities, it is possible to have a significant improvement in the power output.