Reinforced delta-wing blade for wind turbine
US4697988A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 1986 |
| Grant date | Oct 6, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/72
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The flat-plate type wind turbine rotor blade comprises a rigid spoke having a single thin flexiblie skin associated therewith. The skin is formed to provide a delta-wing and a flap extension. The delta-wing and the flap extension are angularly disposed at about 25.degree. to each other. The spoke lies along the junction of the delta-wing and the flap extension. A substantially rigid peripheral member extends along the margin of the skin. The peripheral member and the spoke are joined to provide a frame to which the skin is secured. Arrays of parallel reinforcing rib members extend between the spoke and the peripheral member. These rib members are mounted on the pressure surface of the skin. The ribs on the delta-wing are positioned at an angle of about 60.degree. from the axis of the spoke; the ribs on the flap extension are positioned at an angle of about 75.degree. from said axis. They therefore coincide with the main flow paths of the air flow over the blade surface. The blade is reduced in weight and cost relative to a conventional double-walled blade or a single skin blade of a thickness sufficient to eliminate the need for reinforcing members.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.