unclejoe
06-05-2005, 10:04 AM
The major problem with wind generators within the current paradigm of vertical sails and horizontal air movement requires them to be placed in areas of unimpeded airflow, usually in rural locations. This requires power lines to be built, airspace restrictions, and environmental problems.
Perhaps an adjustment of perspective: horizontal sails and vertical air movement.
Using natural draft of an upright cylinder (an old grain silo or industrial smokestack) with wind generators mounted for horizontal movement, stacked, should be able to generate power using the natural draft w/o major environmental concern or existing wind conditions.
A simple heat source (a passive solar water heater tank inside the structure or use some of the power to generate hydrogen gas to burn) at the base could be used to increase the natural draft.
Electric power generation and hydrogen production in the same facility!!
Many modern office buildings have large ventilation shafts that could be converted to this purpose. Emergency power needs could be satisfied w/o large cumbersome (petrol fueled) conventional generators. Any excess wattage generated could be reverse metered, lowering the building's electrical utility cost.
Perhaps an adjustment of perspective: horizontal sails and vertical air movement.
Using natural draft of an upright cylinder (an old grain silo or industrial smokestack) with wind generators mounted for horizontal movement, stacked, should be able to generate power using the natural draft w/o major environmental concern or existing wind conditions.
A simple heat source (a passive solar water heater tank inside the structure or use some of the power to generate hydrogen gas to burn) at the base could be used to increase the natural draft.
Electric power generation and hydrogen production in the same facility!!
Many modern office buildings have large ventilation shafts that could be converted to this purpose. Emergency power needs could be satisfied w/o large cumbersome (petrol fueled) conventional generators. Any excess wattage generated could be reverse metered, lowering the building's electrical utility cost.