Design, Analysis, and Wind Tunnel Evaluation of Novel Fabric-Covered Rotor Blades in Wind Energy Generation

Abstract

This paper investigates the performance of a novel fabric-covered rotor blade. The study aims to address the need for cost-effective wind turbine blades by exploring the potential of textile-based materials. The research includes a comprehensive wind tunnel experiment to evaluate the aerodynamic response of the fabric-covered blade, compared to a traditional hard-shell blade. The experimental data are systematically processed and corrected for wind tunnel effects, providing valuable insights into the aerodynamic behavior of the novel blade. The results show that the fabric-covered blade, constructed from PTFE-coated fiberglass fabric, exhibits promising aerodynamic characteristics, with potential applications in reducing manufacturing expenses and enhancing power generation. The study concludes by proposing a novel control strategy leveraging the natural deformation of blades at high wind speeds, suggesting potential applications in limiting power output at high wind speeds. Overall, these findings contribute to the ongoing efforts in developing innovative and cost-efficient solutions for wind energy generation.