초록 ▼

Cup-type impellers are utilized on wind energy machines which are driven according to a first embodiment to rotate about a vertical axis and according to a second embodiment to rotate about a horizontal axis. In the vertical axis embodiment, the shaft driven by the cups is coupled to one or more off

Cup-type impellers are utilized on wind energy machines which are driven according to a first embodiment to rotate about a vertical axis and according to a second embodiment to rotate about a horizontal axis. In the vertical axis embodiment, the shaft driven by the cups is coupled to one or more offset generators by a gear. Preferably, a single generator mounted to rotate about a vertical axis is utilized. The rotor of the generator is supported by a low friction vertical bearing. In a second embodiment, a pair of cone supports is utilized to drive a horizontally disposed shaft. The shaft is oriented normally with respect to wind direction by utilizing a wind vane mounted on a separate support which detects wind direction and transmits information regarding wind direction to a platform supporting the drive shaft. Preferably, the generator is mounted directly on the drive shaft.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for generating electricity from wind currents, the apparatus comprising: a tower for supporting the apparatus; a rotational platform mounted on the tower for rotation about a vertical axis; a generator for generating electricity mounted on the platform for rotation therewith; a pair of

An apparatus for generating electricity from wind currents, the apparatus comprising: a tower for supporting the apparatus; a rotational platform mounted on the tower for rotation about a vertical axis; a generator for generating electricity mounted on the platform for rotation therewith; a pair of impeller means mounted for rotation about a horizontal axis, which is fixed with respect to the platform, each impeller means including a frame extending in a vertical plane and a plurality of cups secured in spaced relation around the edge of the frame, each of said cups including a concave surface and a convex surface, said frame including a circular member, each of said cups being fastened to said circular member and having an axis which extends parallel to a targent of said circular member, the cup means all being oriented in the same direction; vane means mounted separate from said tower for aligning with wind direction; means for aligning the axis of the impeller means normal to the direction of the vane.