Research and development of straight wing non-articulated vertical axis wind turbine

In this paper we will present some novel results of our research and development in the filed of wind energy utilization. Our effort in this filed is mainly concentrated to the conceptual design of optimum airfoil sections for the blade of straight wing non-articulated vertical axis wind turbine which undergo cross wind motion. This concept was embodied in the design of a family of airfoil sections designated as Tokai Wind Turbine (TWT) sections and a series of wind tunnel testing was conducted to confirm its desired aerodynamic characteristics. Then, we designed an experimental straight wing non-articulated vertical axis wind turbine system with straight blades to evaluate system performance and structural analysis results, and furthermore to collect operating experiences under real, fluctuating wind conditions. We are now working for evaluating operational feasibility of five sets of different straight wing non-articulated vertical axis wind turbines system, which are partially in service as pilot plants of regional energy development.