MULTI-TURBINE WIND ENERGY GENERATION SYSTEM

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to multi-turbine wind energy generation system (100). The system (100) includes multiple wind turbines (102), a set of wing plates (104), a supporting structure (106) and an energy transfer mechanism (108). The wind turbines (102) is mounted along a common horizontal axis, configured to be installed on a rooftop of a building. The set of wing plates (104) is positioned above and below the wind turbines (102), configured to create a diffuser augmentation effect that increases the efficiency of the wind energy conversion. The supporting structure (106) is configured to secure the wind turbines (102) and the set of wing plates (104) to the rooftop. The supporting structure (106) is reinforced for robustness against environmental conditions. The energy transfer mechanism (108) is connected to the wind turbines (102) for delivering generated electrical energy to a power system of the building.

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of energy generation systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a multi-turbine wind energy generation system.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Traditional wind turbines are generally deployed as individual units with a single axis of rotation, resulting in relatively low efficiency and high manufacturing costs. Additionally, the setup, maintenance, and structural requirements for such systems are typically unsuitable for urban settings, where space is limited and environmental robustness is essential. Furthermore, the Betz-Joukowsky limit restricts the efficiency of traditional wind turbines due to limitations in airflow conversion.
[0003] Wind energy has played a crucial role in human development and has been vital to our progress throughout history. From milling grains to pumping water, wind turbines have evolved significantly and are now primarily used for electricity production. However, this development has not been straightforward. It wasn't until 1887 in Scotland that electricity was first successfully harnessed from the wind. Despite the concept's potential, it was not fully explored due to its expensive and experimental nature. Even today, ground-based wind energy systems require a significant capital investment and are considered costly. Financial considerations aside, these systems often face challenges due to unpredictable or low wind speeds, which are a result of their proximity to the terrain. Wind farms have managed to overcome some of the challenges faced by individual wind turbines. Despite the advantages of wind farms, they are also impacted by the extensive amount of space they require, often leading to administrative complications.
[0004] As previously mentioned, air becomes increasingly unpredictable and slower near the ground, while higher altitudes offer more powerful and consistent winds due to the absence of terrain. This characteristic significantly enhances the efficiency of wind turbine systems. Over time, leading energy companies such as Makani Power have recognized this concept and have made considerable advancements in developing stable and efficient systems. Harnessing this abundant potential has become crucial, especially given the significant pressure we've placed on our fossil fuel resources. While solar power remains a promising market, the production of refined silicon for solar panels requires the use of fossil fuels, inadvertently increasing pollution levels and our carbon footprint. This situation presents a somewhat counterintuitive scenario. However, capturing high-altitude winds on a scale comparable to wind farms presents an opportunity to supply clean energy to villages, small towns, and potentially, in the future, large metropolitan cities, significantly reducing our carbon footprint.
[0005] Using the existing surface area of a pitched roof, the RidgeBlade collects and focuses the prevailing wind by harnessing the Aeolian wind focus effect. This occurs when the wind is forced to travel over the roof surface, creating a pinch point at the roof ridge, which accelerates the airflow through the turbine. The roof needs to be shaped to provide smooth airflow with increased velocity. Not every roof can be shaped to provide such airflow.
[0006] Aeromine's patented aerodynamic design captures and amplifies building airflow. As wind passes through the airfoils, it generates a low pressure area, drawing air up through the intake and into the internal generator. Aeromine units feature no visible moving parts, operate quietly, require minimal maintenance, and have a negligible impact on wildlife. Their design eschews environmentally unfriendly materials, such as silicon and rare earth magnets. Product size needs to be bigger and need to be placed where wind velocity is reasonably higher.
[0007] The O-Wind Turbine, a patented micro wind turbine capable of harnessing winds from all directions (horizontally, vertically, and anywhere in between), this unique capacity makes it the first of a new category of wind turbines. Its spherical, blade-less design makes it safe and ideal for urban applications, whether self-standing or mounted on building facades and other infrastructure. Better in design but having limitations in higher power production.
[0008] Bornay small wind turbines are manufactured following a strict quality control. The main differences of Bornay wind turbines are the reliability, robustness and durability, since they are designed and manufactured with all the know-how that brings an experience of more than 45 years in the sector. All limitations are applied which belongs to conventional turbines.
[0009] Designed by" The Archimedes ", a Dutch company for research and development, 'LIAM F1 UWT' is a new generation of wind turbines for domestic use to produce much more energy than the current and generate no noise. A new trend in the world renewable energy. "The design is based on a rotor captures the kinetic energy of wind to convert it into mechanical energy. Due to its form of screw, Liam automatically point to the optimum position of the wind, like a pennant and therefore have a peak performance. Having limitations in size also as cluster it cannot be used.
[0010] The increasing global energy consumption, driven by the growing demand for electricity, is exerting pressure on the finite supply of natural resources. Currently, only 26% of the electricity consumed worldwide is generated from renewable energy sources. Traditional coal and gas plants continue to be favored due to their lower capital requirements and higher capacity factors. Conventional wind turbines, however, face several challenges, such as the need for areas with high wind speeds, significant land acquisition costs, noise pollution, environmental clearance requirements, and high installation costs due to the size and complexity of the turbines.
[0011] There exists a need for a rooftop wind energy system that is compact, modular, efficient, and easily adaptable to urban buildings, enhancing their energy independence without requiring significant modifications to the structure.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0012] It is a primary object of the present disclosure to provide a multi-turbine wind energy generation system.
[0013] It is another object of the present disclosure to develop a system that negates the necessity for the extensive and costly manufacturing processes associated with traditional wind turbines, which operate as single units with lower efficiency.
[0014] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a multi-turbine wind energy generation system that offers a compact and efficient alternative ideal for urban environments.
[0015] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a multi-turbine wind energy generation system that enhances the building's energy self-sufficiency and also contributes to the broader adoption of renewable energy solutions in urban environments.
[0016] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to design rooftop wind turbine farms that enhance sustainability and energy independence for the community and also play a crucial role in urban energy planning, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
[0017] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a system that reduces the weight and number of tethers needed for turbine transmission and support, leading to a lighter blimp and minimizing buoyancy-related challenges.

SUMMARY
[0018] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of energy generation systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a multi-turbine wind energy generation system.
[0019] The primary aspect of the present disclosure is to design a rooftop wind energy generation system. The rooftop wind energy generation system features multiple wind turbines mounted along a common horizontal axis. By integrating wing plates above and below the turbines, the system achieves a diffuser augmentation effect that increases wind energy conversion efficiency. The innovative design includes structural reinforcements for durability, a streamlined attachment mechanism to secure the system to the rooftop, and a modular and scalable layout that allows deployment flexibility. The inclusion of an additional wing structure both enhances airflow channelling and improves startup performance, allowing the system to be configured with either horizontal or vertical axis turbines, or a combination of both.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0020] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the multi-turbine wind energy generation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary side view of the of the multi-turbine wind energy generation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary top view of the multi-turbine wind energy generation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit, and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0025] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[0026] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.
[0027] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of energy generation systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a multi-turbine wind energy generation system.
[0028] The present disclosure introduces an innovative rooftop wind energy generation system, consisting of multiple wind turbines mounted along a common horizontal axis, tailored for residential or commercial buildings. This system is reinforced with various structures to ensure robustness and durability against environmental factors. By integrating flat plates above and below the turbines, the design achieves a diffuser augmentation effect, substantially increasing the efficiency of the wind energy conversion beyond the conventional Betz-Joukowsky limit. This setup negates the necessity for the extensive and costly manufacturing processes associated with traditional wind turbines, which operate as single units with lower efficiency. It offers a compact and efficient alternative ideal for urban environments. The modular and scalable nature of this rooftop wind farm allows for flexible deployment, catering to the specific energy needs of the building on which it is installed. The system includes a streamlined mechanism for securing the turbines to the rooftop while also facilitating the efficient transfer of generated electrical energy to the building's power system. This innovative approach not only enhances the building's energy self-sufficiency but also contributes to the broader adoption of renewable energy solutions in urban environments.
[0029] Rooftop wind turbines represent a pioneering approach to harnessing wind energy in urban and residential settings, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative for generating electricity closer to where it's consumed. Mounted on the roofs of buildings, these compact turbines can capitalize on the wind flow altered by the urban landscape, turning it into a valuable energy resource. Unlike their larger counterparts in wind farms, rooftop turbines are designed to operate in lower wind speeds and can be installed without the need for extensive land use, making them an ideal solution for densely populated areas. They contribute to reducing a building's reliance on grid-supplied electricity, lowering energy costs, and decreasing carbon footprints. Furthermore, rooftop wind turbines can be integrated with other renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to create hybrid systems that provide a more consistent power supply. Despite challenges such as potential noise and vibration, advances in technology and design are continually improving the efficiency and feasibility of rooftop wind turbines, making them a promising component of urban renewable energy strategies.
[0030] Rooftop wind turbine farms extend the concept of individual rooftop turbines to a larger scale, utilizing the collective roof spaces of buildings in an urban or industrial complex to generate significant amounts of wind energy. These farms consist of multiple small-scale turbines installed across various rooftops within a defined area, working together to produce electricity that can support the energy needs of the buildings below or contribute to the local power grid. This decentralized approach to wind energy harnesses the potential of urban wind corridors and elevated positions, overcoming space limitations and reducing transmission losses by generating power at the point of consumption. Rooftop wind turbine farms not only enhance sustainability and energy independence for the community but also play a crucial role in urban energy planning, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. As technology advances and installation costs decrease, rooftop wind turbine farms are becoming an increasingly viable and attractive option for cities looking to invest in renewable energy solutions.
[0031] A series of wind turbines with an enhanced structure, designed to generate more power than conventional turbines, can be realized through various technological innovations. The focus is on addressing the limitations of traditional designs while employing new methods to improve efficiency, scalability, and adaptability.
[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the multi-turbine wind energy generation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] With reference to FIG. 1, the system (100) includes multiple wind turbines (102), a set of wing plates (104), a supporting structure (106) and an energy transfer mechanism (108). The wind turbines (102) is mounted along a common horizontal axis, configured to be installed on a rooftop of a building. The set of wing plates (104) is positioned above and below the wind turbines (102), configured to create a diffuser augmentation effect that increases the efficiency of the wind energy conversion. The supporting structure (106) is configured to secure the wind turbines (102) and the set of wing plates (104) to the rooftop. The supporting structure (106) is reinforced for robustness against environmental conditions. The energy transfer mechanism (108) is connected to the wind turbines (102) for delivering generated electrical energy to a power system of the building.
[0034] In an embodiment, the system (100) is modular and scalable, allowing for configuration adjustments based on the specific energy needs of the building. The set of wing plates (104) is configured to enhance wind channelling towards the wind turbines (102). The set of wing plates (104) is configured to improve the startup characteristics of the wind turbines (102) by directing airflow at lower wind speeds. The wind turbines (102) include a combination of horizontal-axis and vertical-axis turbines. The set of wing plates (104) are designed to create a diffuser effect by redirecting airflow towards the wind turbines (102) from both above and below. The wing structure includes adjustable sections for optimizing the angle of wind flow based on local wind patterns. The system (100) includes a control unit configured to regulate the energy output from the wind turbines (102) based on the power consumption requirements of the building. The energy transfer mechanism (108) includes an inverter for converting generated power to match the energy system specifications of the building. The set of wing plates (104) can be constructed from solar panels, providing supplementary power and allowing the system (100) to function as a hybrid solar and wind turbine setup.
[0035] In an embodiment, the rooftop wind energy generation system (100) includes multiple wind turbines (102) mounted along a common horizontal axis. These turbines are aligned to optimize wind capture across the length of the array, allowing a compact footprint suitable for rooftop installation on residential or commercial buildings. Structural elements support and secure the turbines to the rooftop, reinforced to withstand environmental conditions such as wind, rain, and varying temperatures. The materials used for these structural supports are weather-resistant, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.
[0036] In an embodiment, the wing plates (104) are adjustable, allowing fine-tuning of the diffuser effect based on local wind patterns and building orientation. This design maximizes efficiency even in areas with variable wind speeds and directions, making it particularly suitable for urban environments with turbulent airflow.
[0037] In an embodiment, the system's modular design allows for the addition or removal of turbines based on the energy requirements of the specific building. Each turbine module can be independently installed, adjusted, or replaced without impacting the entire system, ensuring flexible deployment and easy maintenance. The scalability of the system provides an efficient means of tailoring energy output to meet the energy needs of the building, with configurations ranging from a single turbine array to larger installations with multiple arrays.
[0038] In an embodiment, the system (100) also includes a streamlined mechanism for securing the turbines to the rooftop, designed to minimize structural impact and avoid the need for extensive roof modifications. Anti-vibration components are incorporated to prevent noise and reduce wear on the rooftop. The installation mechanism allows for easy adjustment and alignment of the turbines, ensuring optimal wind exposure and safe operation under diverse weather conditions.
[0039] In an embodiment, the system also includes a control unit that manages the distribution and utilization of generated power, optimizing energy flow based on the building's consumption needs and available wind resources.
[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary side view of the of the multi-turbine wind energy generation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0041] With reference to FIG. 2, the current design, developed by utilizing conventional wind turbines, incorporates an added wing structure (also referred as wing plates (104)) on both the top and bottom. This structure enhances the channelling of wind towards the turbine and can also be used in clusters. The advantage of this design is that there's no need to modify the roof to accommodate these turbines, and it also improves the startup characteristics of the turbine. This additional wing structure can be mounted atop either horizontal or vertical axis wind turbines, or a combination of both. Furthermore, the wing structure can be constructed from solar panels, providing supplementary power and allowing the system to function as a hybrid solar and wind turbine setup.
[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is particularly beneficial for rooftop installations in urban areas and is also applicable in rural settings with typical wind conditions. It is designed to perform exceptionally well in coastal regions and is available in various sizes to accommodate different environments and energy needs.
[0043] In an implementation of an embodiment, a rooftop wind energy generation system is installed on the flat rooftop of a commercial building. This system includes multiple wind turbines arranged along a common horizontal axis, each secured and reinforced with a robust framework designed to withstand environmental stressors such as high winds, precipitation, and temperature fluctuations. The embodiment provides a renewable energy source for the building, contributing up to 30% of the building's energy requirements. The combination of wind and solar generation helps balance output during varying weather conditions, such as calm, sunny days and windy, overcast days. The system operates with minimal noise due to its anti-vibration mounts, and the hybrid nature of the system makes it particularly valuable in environments with unpredictable weather.
[0044] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary top view of the multi-turbine wind energy generation system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0045] The present invention incorporates a velocity augmenting system that enhances the mass flow rate and increases the wind velocity impacting the blades, effectively surpassing the Betz-Joukowsky limit on power generation. The creation of a low-pressure zone behind the turbines, resulting from the gradual expansion of the wake, further aids in overcoming this limit. Additionally, the system's use of multiple turbines significantly increases the capacity factor, bringing it closer to the efficiency of traditional fossil-fuel-based plants. This design also reduces the weight and number of tethers needed for turbine transmission and support, leading to a lighter blimp and minimizing buoyancy-related challenges.
[0046] The system's simpler construction, which avoids the complex 3D shapes required in conventional diffuser-augmented turbines, lowers manufacturing costs. Its scalability allows for the addition of more turbines along a common axis, reinforcing the structure and enabling horizontal expansion. The high modularity of this system also makes it suitable for various applications, including powering microgrids in villages and small towns, which can contribute to the development of these regions. It can be deployed in urban areas to supply electricity to offices, skyscrapers, and other infrastructure.
[0047] One of the more unique applications of this system lies in its ability to provide temporary electricity in regions affected by natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and volcanic eruptions. This capability allows for more efficient rescue operations and faster rehabilitation in such areas. Overall, this system not only reduces dependency on fossil fuels but also offers flexibility, quick deployment, and cost-effective energy solutions.
[0048] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are comprised to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

, Claims:1. A multi-turbine wind energy generation system (100) comprising:
multiple wind turbines (102) mounted along a common horizontal axis, configured to be installed on a rooftop of a building;
a set of wing plates (104) positioned above and below the wind turbines (102), configured to create a diffuser augmentation effect that increases the efficiency of the wind energy conversion;
a supporting structure (106) configured to secure the wind turbines (102) and the set of wing plates (104) to the rooftop, the supporting structure (106) being reinforced for robustness against environmental conditions; and
an energy transfer mechanism (108) connected to the wind turbines (102) for delivering generated electrical energy to a power system of the building.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) is modular and scalable, allowing for configuration adjustments based on the specific energy needs of the building.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of wing plates (104) is configured to enhance wind channelling towards the wind turbines (102).
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of wing plates (104) is configured to improve the startup characteristics of the wind turbines (102) by directing airflow at lower wind speeds.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wind turbines (102) comprise a combination of horizontal-axis and vertical-axis turbines.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of wing plates (104) are designed to create a diffuser effect by redirecting airflow towards the wind turbines (102) from both above and below.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wing structure includes adjustable sections for optimizing the angle of wind flow based on local wind patterns.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprising a control unit configured to regulate the energy output from the wind turbines (102) based on the power consumption requirements of the building.
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy transfer mechanism (108) includes an inverter for converting generated power to match the energy system specifications of the building.
10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of wing plates (104) can be constructed from solar panels, providing supplementary power and allowing the system (100) to function as a hybrid solar and wind turbine setup.

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