Analysis and optimization of power extraction from a concentrated flow savonius turbine

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Distributed small scale renewable energy production systems such as building mounted wind turbines have the potential to play a significant role in electricity production. Solar energy is leading this revolution but requires a large footprint. Wind turbines are complementary to solar and can lead to more efficient electricity production in windy areas. Nevertheless, distributed small scale wind turbines have suffered in reputation because of inadequate placement in areas where there is no wind or on building roofs for which they were not designed for. In this project, a wind turbine enclosed in a diffuser, specifically designed for the roof of a building, is improved. Currently this turbine has a good power extraction efficiency but its effectiveness is limited as only a few operating parameters have been studied. In the current research project, two tasks will be tackled. In the first task, the diffuser intake will be analysed and optimized with respect to varying wind directions and closing vane guides. The blade geometry is a key parameter of any wind turbine. In the second task, an optimization approach will be developed to investigate different blade geometries and identify the blade characteristics that will lead to the highest energy extraction. This work will be performed as a collaboration between Prof. Paraschivoiu's research group at Concordia University and the industrial partner Le Groupe LML.